Hearty Crockpot Ground Beef Soup for Cozy Family Nights
This Crockpot Ground Beef Soup is a delightful, hearty dish perfect for family nights, blending tender ground beef with vegetables in a rich broth.
Equipment
- crockpot
- - Skillet
Ingredients
For the Base
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Use any cooking oil if preferred.
- 1 medium Onion Shallots or leeks can be substituted for a different flavor.
- 1 pound Ground Beef Recommended 80/20 or 85/15 for flavor and texture.
- 2 cloves Garlic Use garlic powder in a pinch, but fresh is preferable.
For the Vegetables
- 2 cups Potatoes Substitute with sweet potatoes for a different flavor.
- 2 medium Carrots Parsnips or bell peppers can be used instead.
- 2 stalks Celery Omit for low-sodium options or if not preferred.
- 1 can Fire-Roasted Tomatoes Regular diced tomatoes can substitute, but omit extra seasoning.
- 1 cup Corn Substitute with frozen peas or green beans.
- 1 cup Peas Omit for a simpler vegetable blend.
For the Broth & Seasoning
- 1 cup Tomato Sauce Use low-sodium varieties to control salt levels.
- 4 cups Beef Broth Vegetable broth is great for a vegetarian version.
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce Soy sauce can be used for a similar flavor.
- 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Homemade mixes can be used.
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- 2 leaves Bay Leaves Remove before serving.
- 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Optional canned pumpkin or pureed beans can replace for thickness.
Instructions
Instructions
- Heat a splash of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until softened, then toss in the ground beef. Cook until browned, around 8-10 minutes, and drain any excess grease.
- While the beef is cooking, peel and dice the potatoes, slice the carrots and celery.
- In your crockpot, layer the prepped potatoes, carrots, celery, fire-roasted tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Give everything a gentle stir to combine well.
- Add the browned beef and onions to the crockpot. Mix thoroughly with the vegetables, ensuring everything is well distributed.
- Cover the crockpot and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-5 hours, until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
- About 15-20 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the tomato paste, corn, and peas. Cook uncovered to heat through and thicken the soup slightly.
- Remove the bay leaves before ladling into bowls. Serve warm and enjoy every hearty spoonful!
Notes
Optional: Top with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for extra indulgence.