HEARTY BEEF & VEGETABLE SOUP

There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of beef and vegetable soup to warm you from the inside out, and this Hearty Beef & Vegetable Soup with Pasta is the ultimate comfort food. Loaded with tender beef, colorful root vegetables, leafy greens, and pasta shells, every bite is packed with rustic flavor and soul-soothing goodness. Whether you're cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this soup delivers nourishing satisfaction in one delicious pot. The slow-simmered broth, rich with tomato and herbs, wraps all the ingredients together in a savory, aromatic hug. Pair it with crusty bread and enjoy the kind of meal that feels like home.

WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS RECIPE

• Cozy and hearty – This soup is the definition of comfort food, with tender chunks of beef and wholesome vegetables in every spoonful.
• Meal prep friendly – Makes a big batch, perfect for leftovers or freezing for busy nights.
• Flexible and customizable – Easily swap veggies or pasta based on what you have on hand.
• Nutritious and balanced – Packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals thanks to the mix of meat, root veggies, and greens.
• One pot magic – Minimal cleanup with all the depth of a slow-cooked stew.

INGREDIENTS YOU'LL NEED

• 1.5 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into small pieces
• 2 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ white onion, chopped small
• 1 orange bell pepper, chopped small
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 7 cups water
• 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed
• 2 small yellow potatoes, cubed
• 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
• Handful of fresh parsley
• ½ zucchini, chopped
• Handful of kale, chopped
• 1 cup small pasta shells (or any pasta), cooked separately

WHAT EACH INGREDIENT DOES

• Beef chuck roast – Provides deep, meaty flavor and becomes fork-tender when simmered low and slow.
• Olive oil – Helps sear the beef and build a flavorful base for the soup.
• Salt and pepper – Essential seasoning to enhance all other flavors.
• Onion, bell pepper, garlic – Aromatic base that adds sweetness, depth, and savory balance.
• Tomato sauce – Adds acidity and umami, creating a rich and cohesive broth.
• Garlic powder, paprika, oregano – Classic seasoning trio for warmth, spice, and herbaceous notes.
• Water – The soup’s liquid foundation; you could use beef broth for an even richer flavor.
• Sweet potato, yellow potatoes, carrots – Root vegetables that add natural sweetness and bulk.
• Fresh parsley – Brightens the soup with a pop of freshness.
• Zucchini and kale – Adds texture, nutrients, and color in the final stages.
• Pasta shells – Soaks up the flavorful broth and makes each bowl more filling and satisfying.

TIPS AND TRICKS FOR SUCCESS

• Brown the beef thoroughly – This step adds deep, caramelized flavor that makes a difference in the final soup.
• Don’t overcook the pasta – Cook it separately and al dente so it doesn’t get mushy when added to the soup.
• Make it ahead – The flavors deepen overnight, making this soup even better the next day.
• Freeze in portions – Store leftovers in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Use broth for more flavor – Substitute some or all of the water with beef or vegetable broth for extra richness.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• Can I use a different cut of beef?
• Yes! Stew meat, brisket, or short ribs also work well. Just make sure it’s a cut that benefits from slow cooking.
• Can I make this in a slow cooker?
• Absolutely. Brown the beef and sauté aromatics first, then transfer to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
• What’s the best way to store leftovers?
• Cool completely and store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage.
• Can I skip the pasta?
• Yes, this soup is just as delicious on its own or with rice or quinoa as an alternative.

If you love hearty beef soups, don’t miss my Caldo de Res, a traditional Mexican beef and vegetable soup with bold, comforting flavors.