Hearty, comforting, and packed with rich flavors, Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is the kind of recipe that tastes like it came straight from grandma’s kitchen. This soul-warming classic is made with tender pot roast, wholesome vegetables, and a savory tomato-beef broth that simmers everything to perfection. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a nourishing make-ahead meal, this soup delivers the taste of tradition in every spoonful.
Using a combination of fresh and frozen vegetables, this recipe is incredibly convenient without sacrificing flavor. The long-simmered beef roast becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, while potatoes, carrots, peas, green beans, and corn provide color, texture, and nutrition. With minimal prep and easy cleanup, it’s the kind of dish that fills your home with irresistible aroma and your bowl with comfort.
Perfect for chilly days, family dinners, or freezing for later, this Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is a must-have in your recipe rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic comfort food that’s hearty, warm, and satisfying.
- Easy prep with frozen veggies—no peeling or chopping required.
- Slow-cooked pot roast adds rich, tender beef flavor.
- Feeds a crowd or makes great leftovers for busy weeks.
- Freezer-friendly—ideal for batch cooking and meal prep.
Ingredients
- Pot roast
- Russet potatoes (chopped)
- Frozen seasoning blend (or chopped onions)
- Frozen peas
- Frozen green beans
- Frozen corn
- Carrots (chopped)
- Beef broth
- Tomato soup
- Water
- Salt and pepper
Variations
- Add pasta or barley for a heartier texture.
- Use fresh veggies if you have time—like diced tomatoes or celery.
- Spice it up with Italian seasoning, bay leaves, or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Swap pot roast for ground beef for a quicker version.
- Make it low-sodium with unsalted broth and reduced-salt tomato soup.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1
In a large pot or Dutch oven, place the pot roast and pour in beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the beef is fork-tender (about 1.5–2 hours).
Step 2
Remove the cooked roast, shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces, and return it to the pot.
Step 3
Add chopped potatoes, carrots, frozen seasoning blend (or onions), and all frozen vegetables (peas, green beans, corn).
Step 4
Stir in the tomato soup and fill one of the soup cans with water, then add that to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Step 5
Season generously with salt and pepper. Simmer over medium-low heat for 30–40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the soup is well-blended.
Step 6
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Sear the pot roast first for extra flavor before simmering.
- Cut vegetables evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Skim any fat off the top for a lighter soup.
- Simmer low and slow to let all the flavors meld together.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to thicken slightly.
How to Serve
Serve hot with crusty bread, cornbread, or buttery crackers. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream on top for a fresh twist. It’s also perfect alongside a simple green salad or grilled cheese sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let soup cool and store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing
Cool completely, then freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Label with the date.
Reheating
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring frequently until hot.
FAQs
1. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes! Cook the pot roast on low for 6–8 hours, then shred and add the rest of the ingredients to finish.
2. Can I use stew meat instead of a whole pot roast?
Absolutely—just simmer until the meat is tender.
3. What’s in frozen seasoning blend?
Typically onions, celery, and peppers—it saves chopping time!
4. Can I use canned vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, but add them during the last 10 minutes so they don’t overcook.
5. How can I thicken the soup?
Let it simmer uncovered or mash a few potatoes into the broth.
6. Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth and check your soup labels.
7. What cut of beef works best?
Chuck roast or shoulder roast—anything that becomes tender when slow-cooked.
8. Can I make this vegetarian?
Omit the beef and use vegetable broth with beans or lentils for protein.
9. Can I prep it ahead?
Yes, chop vegetables and cook the beef a day in advance to save time.
10. What if the soup is too salty?
Add a peeled potato or more water to dilute, then remove the potato before serving.
Conclusion
This Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is a classic for a reason—it’s deeply flavorful, filling, and incredibly comforting. Made with simple ingredients and time-tested techniques, it’s a dish that brings warmth to the table and smiles to every face. Whether you’re cooking for family, stocking the freezer, or craving a bowl of cozy nostalgia, this soup will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
PrintOld-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This hearty Old-Fashioned Vegetable Beef Soup is comfort in a bowl. Loaded with tender chunks of pot roast, fresh and frozen vegetables, and a flavorful tomato-beef broth, it’s a nourishing and satisfying meal the whole family will love. Perfect for chilly nights, batch cooking, or freezing for later!
Ingredients
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1 pot roast (about 2 pounds), cooked and shredded or chopped
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2 russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
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1 (12 oz) bag frozen seasoning blend (or 1 cup chopped onion)
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1 (12 oz) bag frozen peas
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1 (12 oz) bag frozen green beans
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1 (12 oz) bag frozen corn
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4 large carrots, peeled and chopped
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1 (32 oz) container beef broth
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2 (10.75 oz) cans tomato soup
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1 can water (use empty tomato soup can)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Prepare the beef:
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Cook pot roast in advance using your preferred method (slow cooker, oven, or pressure cooker). Shred or chop once cooked.
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Assemble the soup:
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In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, combine shredded beef, chopped potatoes, carrots, frozen seasoning blend (or onions), and all frozen vegetables.
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Add liquids and seasoning:
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Pour in beef broth, tomato soup, and 1 can of water. Stir to combine.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Simmer:
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Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat.
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Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 45–60 minutes, or until vegetables are tender and flavors are well developed.
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Serve:
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Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
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Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.
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Notes
You can substitute fresh vegetables for frozen if desired.
For extra richness, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a bay leaf during simmering.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Beef Vegetable Soup, Hearty Soup, Classic Beef Soup, Freezer Meal, Comfort Food