This Easy Beef Tomato Soup is the perfect comfort food, combining hearty ground beef, tender vegetables, and flavorful tomatoes into a savory soup. Made effortlessly in a slow cooker, this recipe allows you to set it and forget it, while you enjoy the delicious aroma wafting from the kitchen. Whether it’s a chilly day or you’re just craving a wholesome meal, this soup delivers with minimal effort and maximum flavor. With the addition of noodles right before serving, each bowl is full of satisfying texture and warmth.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef, browned and drained
Ground beef serves as the main protein, adding richness and flavor to the soup. Browning and draining it beforehand ensures that the soup is not too greasy.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
Diced tomatoes create the base of the soup, adding a tangy, sweet flavor that complements the savory beef and vegetables.
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
Tomato sauce helps thicken the soup and enhances the tomato flavor, making the soup rich and creamy without the need for cream.
4 cups beef broth
Beef broth is essential for adding depth and richness to the soup. It enhances the overall flavor profile, making the soup even more savory.
1 large onion, chopped
Onions add a mild sweetness and depth to the soup as they soften and caramelize during the slow cooking process.
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
Garlic adds a fragrant and savory note that complements the beef and tomatoes, enhancing the overall flavor of the soup.
2 carrots, peeled and sliced
Carrots bring a touch of natural sweetness and color to the soup, balancing the savory flavors and adding nutritional value.
2 celery stalks, sliced
Celery provides a slight crunch and a mild, refreshing flavor that rounds out the soup, complementing the other vegetables.
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Italian seasoning adds a blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme, enhancing the soup with Mediterranean flavors.
Salt and pepper, to taste
Season the soup with salt and pepper to bring all the flavors together. Adjust to your preference, ensuring the soup is perfectly balanced.
1 ½ cups cooked noodles (add when serving)
Noodles add substance to the soup, making it a more filling and satisfying meal. Add them at the end to prevent them from becoming soggy.
Optional garnishes: grated Parmesan, fresh parsley
A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a few fresh parsley leaves adds a burst of flavor and a pop of color to your bowl of soup.
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once the beef is fully browned, drain any excess fat. This will help keep the soup from becoming too greasy.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Transfer the browned ground beef to the slow cooker. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, chopped onion, garlic, carrots, celery, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to combine the ingredients.
Step 3: Cook in the Slow Cooker
Cover the slow cooker and cook the soup on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, making the soup even more flavorful.
Step 4: Prepare the Noodles
While the soup is cooking, cook the noodles according to the package instructions. It’s important to cook them separately to avoid them becoming mushy in the soup. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
Step 5: Serve
Once the soup is done cooking, ladle it into bowls. Add a portion of the cooked noodles to each bowl and top with the soup. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley, if desired, for an added burst of flavor and color.
Tips and Variations
- Make it Spicy: For those who enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup while cooking. You can also stir in some diced jalapeños for extra kick.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Adding greens like spinach in the last 30 minutes of cooking will ensure they remain fresh and vibrant.
- Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: If you prefer a leaner version of this soup, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. These options will create a lighter but still flavorful dish.
- Vegan Option: For a vegan version, use plant-based ground meat and vegetable broth in place of the beef broth. The rest of the ingredients can remain the same.
- Add Beans: If you want to make the soup heartier, add a can of drained and rinsed beans, like kidney beans or white beans, to the slow cooker. This will increase the fiber and protein content of the soup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup on the stove instead of using a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this soup on the stove. To do so, brown the ground beef in a large pot, then add the remaining ingredients. Bring the soup to a simmer and cook for about 30-45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined. Add the cooked noodles just before serving.
Can I freeze the soup for later?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up on the stove or in the microwave. Add the noodles after reheating to keep them from becoming soggy.
How do I prevent the noodles from getting soggy?
To prevent the noodles from getting soggy, cook them separately and add them to each serving bowl just before serving. This ensures that the noodles stay firm and absorb the soup’s flavors without becoming mushy.
Can I use other types of broth?
Yes, you can substitute the beef broth with chicken broth or vegetable broth for a different flavor profile. However, beef broth provides a rich, savory base that pairs well with the beef, so using a different type of broth will slightly alter the taste of the soup.
Conclusion
This Easy Beef Tomato Soup is a hearty, satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy meal. With its rich tomato base, tender vegetables, and flavorful ground beef, it’s a meal that’s both comforting and nutritious. The slow cooker version makes it incredibly easy to prepare, and the option to add noodles at the end ensures that the dish is filling without becoming too heavy. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.