A cozy, hearty bowl of creamy soup brimming with tender ground beef, sweet carrots, and onions, simmered in a rich broth. Served with toasted bread, this comforting dish is perfect for chilly nights and soul-warming meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy ground beef and vegetable soup combines rich flavors and a satisfying texture that warms you from the inside out. It’s simple to prepare, uses accessible ingredients, and delivers a comforting, balanced meal in one pot. The addition of milk or half-and-half creates a luscious, velvety broth that complements the savory beef and sweet vegetables perfectly. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal to enjoy on a cold day, this soup offers both nourishment and comfort.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1 small onion, diced
2 carrots, peeled and diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon flour (optional, for thickening)
2 cups beef broth
1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Toasted bread, for serving
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Remove excess grease if needed.
- Add onion, carrots, and garlic. Cook for 5–6 minutes until vegetables soften.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir for 1 minute to coat (optional for a thicker texture).
- Slowly pour in beef broth while stirring, then add milk. Bring to a simmer.
- Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until soup is slightly thickened and vegetables are tender.
- Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley, and serve with toasted bread.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves approximately 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef for a lighter option.
- Add other vegetables such as celery, potatoes, or peas for extra texture and nutrition.
- Use cream instead of milk for a richer, more indulgent soup.
- For a spicier version, include a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Garnish with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent curdling of the milk. Add a splash of broth or milk if the soup has thickened too much. This soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the milk or half-and-half with a plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Use a dairy-free butter or oil.
Can I prepare this soup in advance?
Absolutely. The flavors develop even better when the soup sits for a few hours or overnight in the fridge.
Is it necessary to add flour?
No, the flour is optional and only used if you want a thicker soup. You can skip it for a lighter broth.
Can I use canned vegetables instead of fresh?
Fresh vegetables are best for texture and flavor, but canned or frozen vegetables can be used in a pinch.
How do I prevent the soup from curdling when reheating?
Heat gently on low and stir frequently. Avoid boiling once the milk is added.
Can I add pasta or rice to this soup?
Yes, adding cooked pasta or rice makes the soup heartier. Add them just before serving to avoid overcooking.
What is the best cut of ground beef to use?
Ground beef with 80-85% lean content balances flavor and fat for this soup.
Can I use broth cubes instead of fresh beef broth?
Yes, beef broth cubes or concentrate work fine if dissolved properly in water.
How do I store leftover soup?
Use airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Can this soup be made gluten-free?
Yes, omit the flour or substitute with a gluten-free thickener such as cornstarch.
Conclusion
Creamy Ground Beef & Vegetable Soup is a versatile, comforting meal perfect for cooler days or whenever you need a hearty, nourishing dish. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s easy to prepare and customize to your taste. Whether served with toasted bread or enjoyed on its own, this soup promises warmth and satisfaction in every bowl.
Print
Creamy Ground Beef & Vegetable Soup
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A cozy, hearty bowl of creamy soup brimming with tender ground beef, sweet carrots, and onions, simmered in a rich broth. Served with toasted bread, this comforting dish is perfect for chilly nights and soul-warming meals.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon flour (optional, for thickening)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
- Toasted bread, for serving
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Remove excess grease if needed.
- Add onion, carrots, and garlic. Cook for 5–6 minutes until vegetables soften.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir for 1 minute to coat (optional for a thicker texture).
- Slowly pour in beef broth while stirring, then add milk. Bring to a simmer.
- Season with salt, pepper, and thyme. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until soup is slightly thickened and vegetables are tender.
- Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley, and serve with toasted bread.
Notes
- Flour is optional and can be omitted for a thinner soup.
- Use half-and-half instead of whole milk for a richer texture.
- Toasted bread complements the soup well for serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
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