How to Make Classic Crockpot Ground Beef Soup

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté diced onion for 3-4 minutes until it turns translucent, then add ground beef. Break it apart and brown for 8-10 minutes. Drain excess grease.
• Stir in freshly minced garlic, cooking for 1 minute, just until fragrant.
• While the beef cooks, peel and cut potatoes into 1-inch cubes, slice carrots into 1/2-inch rounds, and chop celery into 1/4-inch pieces.
• In your crockpot, combine prepped vegetables, fire-roasted tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and bay leaves. Mix well.
• Stir in the browned beef along with any pan juices from the skillet. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-5 hours, until veggies are tender and flavors meld beautifully.
• About 15-20 minutes before serving, mix in 6 oz of tomato paste, corn, and peas. Heat uncovered until warmed through.
• Just before serving, make sure to remove the bay leaves. Ladle into bowls and enjoy your heartwarming soup!