Hearty Ground Beef Vegetable Soup

Here’s a full, simple recipe —this is a classic hearty ground beef vegetable soup:

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🥣 Hearty Ground Beef Vegetable Soup

🛒 Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3–4 carrots, sliced
• 2–3 potatoes, peeled & diced
• 1 cup green beans (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup corn (frozen or canned)
• 1 cup peas
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4–6 cups beef broth
• 1–2 cups water (as needed)
• 1–2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for richness)
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or mix of thyme, oregano, basil)
• 1–2 bay leaves (optional)

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the beef
   • In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned.
   • Drain excess grease if needed.
2. Add aromatics
   • Add chopped onion (and garlic if using).
   • Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
3. Add vegetables
   • Stir in carrots, potatoes, green beans, corn, and peas.
4. Add liquids & tomatoes
   • Pour in diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, and water.
   • Stir in tomato paste if using.
5. Season
   • Add salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and bay leaves.
6. Simmer
   • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat.
   • Cover and simmer for 25–35 minutes, until vegetables are tender.
7. Taste & adjust
   • Adjust seasoning as needed. Remove bay leaves before serving.

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🍲 Tips

• Add beans (like black beans or kidney beans) for extra protein.
• Want it thicker? Simmer uncovered longer or mash a few potatoes.
• Freezes really well—great for meal prep.