This hearty Slow Cooker Beef Vegetable Soup is a warm, comforting meal packed with tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and savory flavors. It’s perfect for chilly days when you need a nutritious, no-fuss dinner option.
Why This Recipe Works
Tender Beef: Slow cooking ensures the stew meat is tender and flavorful.
Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with a variety of vegetables for a healthy, balanced meal.
Simple and Convenient: Just set it and forget it—ideal for busy days.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
1 pound beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cups beef broth
1 cup water
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
2 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 bay leaf
2 cups chopped fresh spinach or kale
1 cup frozen peas
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Vegetable Soup
Prepare the Beef:
Season the stew meat with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Brown the beef on all sides, about 5-6 minutes, then transfer it to your slow cooker.
Assemble the Ingredients:
Add the beef broth, water, diced tomatoes (with juices), carrots, celery, onion, garlic, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf to the slow cooker.
Stir everything together.
Cook:
Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked.
Add Final Ingredients:
About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the chopped spinach or kale and frozen peas.
Cook until the greens are wilted and the peas are heated through.
Serve:
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Helpful Tips for Recipe Success
Customize Your Vegetables: Add potatoes, green beans, or corn for extra heartiness.
Herbs: Swap thyme and oregano for Italian seasoning or fresh herbs for a flavor twist.
Meat Options: Use ground beef, leftover roast, or even chicken for a variation.
Freezing Tip: This soup freezes well. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with crusty bread or buttery biscuits for a complete meal.
Add a side salad for extra greens.
Top with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for added richness.
FAQs
Can I make this soup on the stovetop?
Yes! Simmer everything in a large pot over low heat for about 1.5-2 hours, adding the greens and peas during the last 10-15 minutes.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Absolutely! Add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.
What’s the best cut of beef for this recipe?
Beef stew meat, chuck roast, or any well-marbled cut works best as it becomes tender when slow-cooked.
Timing Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 7-8 hours (low) or 4-5 hours (high)
Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
Warm, nourishing, and packed with flavor, this Slow Cooker Beef Vegetable Soup is the perfect recipe for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Let your slow cooker do the work, and enjoy a wholesome meal everyone will love!