There’s something deeply comforting about a warm bowl of soup-a harmonious blend of flavors that nourishes both body and soul. Enter the wholesome lean ground beef and veggie soup: a vibrant, hearty creation that’s as nutritious as it is satisfying. This recipe guide will take you on a culinary journey, exploring how simple, fresh ingredients come together to form a appetizing, guilt-free meal perfect for any season. Weather you’re seeking a nutritious weeknight dinner or a make-ahead option to fuel your busy days, this guide reveals the secrets to crafting a soul-soothing soup that balances robust protein with garden-fresh vegetables-proving that healthy eating can be wonderfully flavorful and endlessly comforting.
Wholesome Lean ground Beef & Veggie Soup Recipe Guide
Wholesome lean ground beef & veggie soup is a party of nourishment and comfort, bringing together the robust flavors of high-quality lean beef and the vibrant bounty of seasonal vegetables. This hearty soup has roots in classic home cooking, yet it radiates freshness and vitality by embracing clean, nutrient-dense ingredients. Whether you’re craving a nourishing lunch or a cozy dinner, this soup promises to fill your bowl-and your soul-with warmth and wellness.
Prep and Cook Time
- Planning Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield
Serves 6 generous bowls
Difficulty Level
Easy – Perfect for weeknights
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef (95% lean,preferably grass-fed)
- 1 medium yellow onion,finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic,minced
- 2 large carrots,peeled and sliced into thin rounds
- 2 celery stalks,chopped
- 1 small zucchini,diced
- 1 cup green beans,chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large tomato,peeled and chopped
- 6 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper,to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup chopped kale or spinach (optional for extra greens)
- Fresh parsley,chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing untill translucent and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Increase heat to medium-high and crumble in the lean ground beef. Cook,stirring and breaking up chunks,until browned evenly and no pink remains,about 6-8 minutes.Drain any excess fat if necessary to keep the broth light.
- Stir in the carrots, celery, and green beans, cooking for an additional 3 minutes to soften slightly and release their flavors.
- Add the diced tomato, zucchini, thyme, smoked paprika, and bay leaf, stir lightly to combine.
- Pour in the beef broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and let simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, allowing all flavors to meld and the broth to develop a rich, comforting depth.
- About 5 minutes before finishing, stir in the chopped kale or spinach if using, letting it wilt fully.
- season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Ladle hot soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Tips for Success
- Choose quality lean ground beef labeled 90% lean or higher to enhance nutrient density while keeping the broth light and clean-tasting.
- For a deeper broth, brown the beef well but avoid burning it; this adds smoky flavor and richness.
- Season gradually! Taste the broth midway through simmering to adjust herbs and salt accordingly.
- Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables like butternut squash in fall or asparagus in spring to tailor the soup to the fresh market’s best offerings.
- For a gluten-free option, confirm your broth is free from additives containing gluten.
- This soup stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days and tastes even better the next day once flavors have had time to meld.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your wholesome lean ground beef & veggie soup with a side of warm, crusty whole-grain bread or a light mixed green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette. for an extra cozy touch, top each bowl with a dollop of Greek yogurt or shredded sharp cheddar to balance the wholesome flavors. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a pinch of red pepper flakes for that perfect finishing note.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 12g |
| Fat | 10g |
Discover more hearty recipes that support your wholesome lifestyle in our Healthy Dinner Ideas collection. For in-depth guidance on selecting nutrient-dense meats, visit the american Roundtable for Beef Nutrition.
Q&A
Wholesome Lean Ground Beef & Veggie Soup recipe Guide: Q&A
Q1: What makes this Lean Ground Beef & Veggie Soup recipe “wholesome”?
A: this soup is a nutrient-packed powerhouse made with lean ground beef for high-quality protein,a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables for fiber and antioxidants,and a flavorful broth that’s low in sodium and additives. Together,these elements create a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing.
Q2: Can I use other types of ground meat rather of lean ground beef?
A: Absolutely! While lean ground beef provides a rich, hearty flavor with less fat, you can certainly swap it out for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles. Just keep an eye on cooking times and seasoning adjustments for the best results.
Q3: What vegetables work best in this soup?
A: Classic staples like carrots, celery, onions, and spinach are perfect for adding texture, color, and nutrients. You can also experiment with zucchini, bell peppers, green beans, or tomatoes to keep things exciting and seasonal.
Q4: How can I make this soup even healthier?
A: Use low-sodium broth to control salt intake, load up on fiber-rich veggies, and incorporate herbs and spices like garlic, thyme, and bay leaves for flavor without extra calories. For an extra boost, toss in some lentils or quinoa.
Q5: Is this soup family-friendly and kid-approved?
A: Most definitely! The mild flavors and familiar ingredients can be comforting for kids, while the colorful veggies make it visually appealing. You can finely chop or puree veggies for picky eaters and add a sprinkle of cheese or a side of whole-grain bread to complete the meal.
Q6: How long does the soup keep, and can I freeze it?
A: This soup stays fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes beautifully – just portion it out into airtight containers and defrost when needed for a quick,wholesome meal anytime.
Q7: What’s the best way to serve this soup?
A: Serve it warm with a crusty whole-grain roll, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess. Pair it with a light salad for a balanced lunch or a cozy dinner.
Q8: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker or instant Pot?
A: Yes! Brown the ground beef beforehand, than add all ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. For the Instant Pot, use the sauté mode for beef, then pressure cook on high for about 15 minutes. Both methods yield tender, flavorful results with minimal effort.
Q9: How versatile is this soup recipe?
A: Very versatile! Feel free to tweak the spices, swap veggies, or add grains and legumes to tailor it to your tastes or pantry availability. This soup is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.
Q10: Why should I add this Lean Ground beef & Veggie Soup to my weekly meal plan?
A: It’s quick, budget-friendly, loaded with nutrients, and perfect for meal prep. Plus, its comforting warmth and satisfying flavors make it a reliable go-to for wellness – proving that eating healthily can be both delicious and easy.
Key Takeaways
As you savor each warm, hearty spoonful of this wholesome lean ground beef and veggie soup, take pride in the harmony of flavors and nutrients that nourish both body and soul. This recipe isn’t just a meal-it’s a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together in a cozy, comforting embrace. whether you’re cooking for family,friends,or yourself,let this guide inspire you to create dishes that are as good for your health as they are for your heart. So, keep your ladle ready, your pantry stocked, and your creativity flowing-because wholesome, delicious meals like this are just the beginning of your culinary adventure.
