Campbell’s Beef Vegetable Soup Recipe

When you think of comfort food, there’s almost always something that comes to mind – warm, hearty, and satisfying dishes that fill you up and leave you feeling cozy. Campbell’s Beef Vegetable Soup is one of those timeless recipes that has been a staple in many households for decades. This dish is a perfect balance of tender beef, savory vegetables, and a flavorful broth, all coming together in a warm, hearty bowl of goodness. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you simply need a meal that’s easy to prepare but packed with flavor, this soup hits the spot.

Not only is Campbell’s Beef Vegetable Soup a beloved dish for its comforting taste, but it’s also a fantastic recipe that combines the essential elements of nutrition and flavor. It brings together hearty beef, a colorful mix of vegetables, and a broth that soaks up all the delicious flavors – making it perfect for any occasion. And, while there are many ways to enjoy this soup, the recipe we’ll explore today offers a tried-and-true approach with expert tips, ingredient breakdowns, and even some creative variations.

Campbell’s Beef Vegetable Soup Recipe

Let’s dive into this delicious and comforting soup recipe. While Campbell’s Beef Vegetable Soup can easily be made from a can, there’s something special about preparing it from scratch, with fresh ingredients. And if you’ve ever wondered how to replicate the flavors at home, you’re in for a treat. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making your own beef vegetable soup from scratch:

Ingredients Needed

• Beef stew meat (1 pound)

  • Cut into small chunks for easy eating.

• Carrots (2 medium, peeled and sliced)

  • Adds a sweet, earthy flavor and vibrant color to the soup.

• Potatoes (3 medium, peeled and diced)

  • The starchiness adds body to the broth and creates a hearty texture.

• Celery (2 stalks, chopped)

  • Gives a mild, slightly peppery crunch to the mix.

• Frozen peas (1 cup)

  • A great source of color, texture, and a hint of sweetness.

• Corn kernels (1 cup, frozen or fresh)

  • Adds a sweet, juicy burst that contrasts well with the savory flavors.

• Tomatoes (1 can, diced or 2 medium fresh, chopped)

  • Tomatoes bring acidity and depth to balance the richness of the beef.

• Beef broth (4 cups)

  • This is the base of your soup. Opt for a high-quality broth for a richer flavor.

• Onion (1 medium, diced)

  • Adds a savory, slightly sweet foundation.

• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)

  • A key aromatic that deepens the flavor profile.

• Bay leaves (2)

  • Their herbal, slightly floral aroma complements the beef and vegetables.

• Thyme (1 teaspoon dried or fresh)

  • A subtle earthy note that brings the soup together.

• Salt and Pepper (to taste)

  • Essential seasonings to bring out all the natural flavors.

• Olive oil (1 tablespoon)

  • For sautéing the beef and vegetables, adding a touch of richness.

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare The Ingredients

   Start by prepping all your vegetables and meat. Chop the beef into bite-sized cubes, peel and slice your carrots and potatoes, and chop the celery, onion, and garlic. Set everything aside so you can move quickly during the cooking process.

2. Brown The Beef

   Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef and sear it on all sides until it’s browned. This step helps develop the rich, savory flavor that will infuse the entire soup.

3. Sauté The Aromatics

   Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook them for about 3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This step is crucial for layering the flavors.

4. Add The Vegetables

   Stir in the carrots, potatoes, and celery. Let them cook for 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and absorb the flavors of the beef and aromatics.

5. Pour In The Broth And Seasonings

   Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, peas, corn, bay leaves, and thyme. Stir everything together, ensuring that all the ingredients are evenly distributed. Bring the soup to a boil.

6. Simmer To Perfection

   Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 45-60 minutes. The beef will become tender, the vegetables will soften, and the flavors will meld together into a savory, comforting broth.

7. Taste And Adjust

   After the soup has simmered, taste it and add salt and pepper to your liking. If you feel it needs a bit more richness, you can add a touch of extra beef broth or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for depth.

8. Serve And Enjoy

   Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. This soup is excellent on its own, but you can serve it with a side of crusty bread or crackers for extra texture.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this soup plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors and textures:

• Beef stew meat: Provides the rich, meaty flavor that serves as the foundation of the soup. The marbling in the beef adds a subtle richness, which is essential for a satisfying soup.
• Carrots and potatoes: Not only do these vegetables add color, but they also help thicken the soup and provide a natural sweetness that complements the savory meat.
• Frozen peas and corn: These vegetables contribute both sweetness and texture, helping the soup feel more balanced and colorful. Their brightness contrasts the deep, savory notes of the beef and broth.
• Herbs and seasonings: Bay leaves, thyme, garlic, and onions bring warmth, fragrance, and a sense of home to the soup. They help elevate the broth and create a complex, multi-layered flavor profile.

Expert Tips

• Searing the beef: Don’t skip the step of browning the beef. This caramelizes the meat’s exterior and enhances the soup’s overall flavor. Plus, it helps to create a more rustic, hearty texture.
• Simmering time: The longer you simmer the soup, the more tender the beef becomes and the deeper the flavors meld. If you have the time, let it simmer for a full hour or more – low and slow is key here.
• Make ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! If you can, make it a day in advance. Allowing the soup to cool completely, then storing it in the fridge overnight, will allow the flavors to deepen.
• Frozen vs. fresh vegetables: You can use fresh vegetables, but frozen peas and corn are just as good for this recipe. They’re convenient, they hold up well when cooked, and they add color and sweetness to the soup.

Recipe Variations

While Campbell’s Beef Vegetable Soup recipe is delicious on its own, you can always play around with the ingredients to make it your own:

• Spicy version: Add a couple of chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the broth for some heat.
• Herb variations: Swap out thyme for rosemary or oregano if you prefer a different flavor profile.
• Vegetarian version: Skip the beef and substitute with plant-based protein like lentils or chickpeas, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian-friendly alternative.
• Add beans: For extra protein and texture, consider adding a can of kidney beans, white beans, or chickpeas.
• Cheese: For a creamy variation, sprinkle some shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese over the soup just before serving.

Final Words

Campbell’s Beef Vegetable Soup, whether from a can or homemade, is the epitome of comfort food. It’s a dish that brings warmth, sustenance, and a sense of nostalgia with every spoonful. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its simplicity but also in its adaptability – you can tweak the ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary needs, making it a dish for everyone.