Savory Slow Cooker Vegetable Beef Soup for Cozy Nights

When the weather turns chilly, there's nothing better than a warm bowl of Savory Slow Cooker Vegetable Beef Soup. I remember one winter evening when my son, Jake, came home from school, his cheeks rosy from the cold. He took one whiff of this soup simmering in the Crockpot and exclaimed, 'This smells like a hug!' That's the magic of this hearty dishโ€”itโ€™s comfort food that brings the family together.

Why Youโ€™ll Love It

  • It’s a one-pot meal that saves time on cleanup.
  • You can use whatever veggies you have on hand.
  • Itโ€™s perfect for meal prep and leftovers.

Pure Comfort

This soup is pure comfort in a bowl. The tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and savory herbs meld together beautifully, creating a dish that’s both nourishing and satisfying. Plus, it fills your home with the most inviting aroma.

What You Need

  • 1 1 lb beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes – You can substitute with stew meat or ground beef.
  • 1 1 large yellow onion, diced – For a sweeter flavor, use a Vidalia onion.
  • 3 3 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic powder can be used in a pinch.
  • 3 3 medium carrots, sliced – Feel free to use baby carrots for convenience.
  • 2 2 stalks celery, diced – You can replace celery with bell peppers.
  • 1 1 large potato, diced – Sweet potatoes work well too.
  • 1 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained – Fresh tomatoes can be used if preferred.
  • 4 4 cups beef broth – Vegetable broth is a great substitute for a lighter option.
  • 1 1 tsp dried thyme – Fresh thyme can be used for a fresher taste.
  • 1 1 tsp dried oregano – Basil can be a nice alternative.
  • to taste Salt and pepper to taste – Adjust according to your preference.

Time to Cook

Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 8 hours | Total: 8 hours 15 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, it can be made a day in advance.

Steps to Make It

  1. Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear them until they’re browned on all sides. This step adds a depth of flavor that makes your soup irresistible.
  2. While the beef is browning, chop the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and potato. The colorful veggies will brighten up your soup and add great texture.
  3. Once the beef is browned, transfer it to your slow cooker. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This will enhance the aroma of your soup.
  4. Next, toss in the sliced carrots, diced celery, and potato into the slow cooker with the beef. The more veggies, the heartier your soup will be!
  5. Pour in the can of diced tomatoes along with the beef broth. Add the dried thyme and oregano, then season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.
  6. Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 8 hours. The soup will be ready when the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through, filling your home with a cozy aroma.
  7. Once done, give the soup a good stir and taste for seasoning. Adjust if necessary, adding more salt or pepper as needed. Itโ€™s all about making it just right for you.
  8. Serve the soup hot in bowls, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. This dish is perfect for a chilly night and pairs wonderfully with crusty bread.

Make It Perfect

  • For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
  • If you want a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes against the side of the slow cooker.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Mix It Up

  • Add beans for extra protein and fiber.
  • Incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini or green beans.
  • Spice it up with a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.

Perfect Partners

  • Serve with crusty bread or a side salad.
  • Pair with a glass of red wine for a cozy dinner.

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FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.

How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze this soup?

Absolutely! Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.

What can I substitute for beef?

You can use chicken or turkey for a lighter version.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Savory Slow Cooker Vegetable Beef Soup is the perfect dish for those cozy nights in. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So grab your slow cooker and let the magic happen!

Slow cooker vegetable beef soup with beef and colorful vegetables in bowl

Savory Slow Cooker Vegetable Beef Soup for Cozy Nights

A comforting slow cooker soup featuring tender beef, a variety of fresh vegetables, and savory herbs. This hearty, easy-to-make dish is perfect for chilly evenings and meal prep, filling your home with a warm, inviting aroma.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 8 minutes
Course Dinner, Soup
Cuisine American

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • slow cooker

Ingredients
  

Main

  • 1 lb beef chuck cut into 1-inch cubes; can substitute with stew meat or ground beef
  • 1 large yellow onion diced; for a sweeter flavor, use a Vidalia onion
  • 3 cloves garlic minced; garlic powder can be used in a pinch
  • 3 medium carrots sliced; baby carrots can be used for convenience
  • 2 stalks celery diced; can be replaced with bell peppers
  • 1 large potato diced; sweet potatoes work well too
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes undrained; fresh tomatoes can be used if preferred
  • 4 cups beef broth vegetable broth is a great substitute for a lighter option
  • 1 tsp dried thyme fresh thyme can be used for a fresher taste
  • 1 tsp dried oregano basil can be a nice alternative
  • to taste salt and pepper adjust according to your preference

Instructions
 

  • Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef cubes until browned on all sides.
  • Chop the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and potato while the beef is browning.
  • Transfer the browned beef to your slow cooker.
  • Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  • Add the cooked onion and garlic to the slow cooker along with the sliced carrots, diced celery, and diced potato.
  • Pour in the diced tomatoes with juice and beef broth into the slow cooker.
  • Add dried thyme, oregano, and season with salt and pepper; stir to combine.
  • Cover and cook on low for 8 hours until beef is tender and vegetables are cooked through.
  • Stir the soup, taste, and adjust seasoning as needed.
  • Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs and accompanied by crusty bread.
Keyword Beef, Comfort Food, Meal Prep, Slow Cooker, vegetables