Beef Broccoli Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful, and nutrient-packed meal that can be made quickly, a Beef Broccoli Soup is a fantastic choice. This dish brings together the savory richness of tender beef, the earthy, slightly bitter notes of broccoli, and a rich broth that ties everything together into a bowl of goodness. Whether you’re craving something to warm you up on a cold day or need a quick, filling dinner, this soup can easily become your new favorite.

The beauty of Beef Broccoli Soup lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s not just a one-note dish; it’s a layered experience. From the richness of beef to the crunch of fresh broccoli, the different textures and flavors blend together to create something memorable. The best part? It’s an easy recipe that’s perfect for beginners or seasoned cooks alike. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens, all while enjoying a hearty meal.

This Beef Broccoli Soup recipe brings together just a few simple ingredients but creates a flavor profile that’s anything but basic. It’s a savory and satisfying soup that’s as great for weeknight dinners as it is for meal prepping in advance.

Ingredients Needed

Beef (preferably stew meat or sirloin tips) – 1 pound

A cut that’s tender and can hold up to simmering in broth. Stew meat or sirloin tips are ideal for this.
Broccoli florets – 3 cups

Fresh, crunchy broccoli will bring the right balance of flavor and texture to the soup.
Onion – 1 medium, diced

Provides a mild sweetness and depth of flavor to the broth.
Garlic cloves – 3, minced

A must-have in any soup. Garlic adds that aromatic punch to the broth.
Carrots – 2 medium, peeled and sliced

Adds a slight sweetness and crunch, complementing the broccoli and beef perfectly.
Beef broth – 4 cups

The base of your soup, and the perfect way to infuse the beef with extra flavor.
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons

Used for sautéing the beef and vegetables, adding richness and depth.
Soy sauce – 2 tablespoons

For a subtle, savory umami flavor.
Salt and pepper – to taste

Seasoning is crucial for bringing out the flavors in any soup. Adjust as you go.
Bay leaf – 1

Adds a subtle herbal note to the broth.
Cornstarch (optional) – 1 tablespoon

If you prefer a thicker soup, this will give it a nice consistency.

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients: Start by prepping all your ingredients. Dice the onions, mince the garlic, slice the carrots, and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Set these aside, ready to go.
Brown the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Brown the beef for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s well-seared on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add a bit more olive oil if needed and toss in the onions and carrots. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, letting the aroma fill the kitchen.
Simmer the Soup: Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and add the bay leaf, soy sauce, and additional salt and pepper to taste. Bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 45 minutes, until the beef is tender and the broth has had time to develop a deep, savory flavor.
Add the Broccoli: Once the beef is tender, add the broccoli florets to the pot and continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes, until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant and crisp.
Thicken the Soup (Optional): If you prefer a thicker soup, mix the cornstarch with a little cold water to make a slurry, then stir it into the soup. Allow the soup to simmer for a few more minutes until the broth thickens.
Serve: Remove the bay leaf, taste the soup for seasoning, and adjust if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.

Ingredient Insights

Beef: Choosing the right beef cut is crucial. You want something that holds up well in soup, such as stew meat or sirloin tips. These cuts are rich in flavor but become tender and juicy as they simmer, making them perfect for slow cooking in broth.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is key here. While frozen broccoli can work in a pinch, fresh broccoli provides a nice, crisp texture that stands out in the soup. Plus, it’s packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making it a great addition to the meal.
Beef Broth: If possible, opt for low-sodium beef broth, as it gives you more control over the saltiness of the soup. Alternatively, you could make your own broth from scratch, which can elevate the overall flavor profile.
Soy Sauce: This is a game-changer in the soup. It adds a depth of umami, enhancing the beef’s natural flavors and giving the broth a savory boost.

Expert Tips

Browning the Beef: Don’t rush this step. Browning the beef properly adds layers of flavor to the broth, which is the foundation of the soup’s taste.
Adjust Seasoning Gradually: The beauty of a broth-based soup is that you can control the seasoning as you go. Taste the soup after each major step-especially after you add the broth and before adding the broccoli. You’ll want to balance the salt, soy sauce, and pepper to taste.
Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: While the beef benefits from long, slow cooking, the broccoli should be added towards the end so it stays tender but not mushy. Overcooked broccoli can lose its bright green color and turn mushy, so keep an eye on the timing.
Make Ahead: This soup can easily be made ahead and stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. In fact, it often tastes even better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld together.

Recipe Variations

Add Other Vegetables: Try throwing in some other veggies like celery, parsnips, or potatoes for a heartier soup. These will blend well with the beef and broccoli and make for an even more filling meal.
Spicy Version: If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño when sautéing the onions and garlic. This adds a nice spicy kick that complements the savory flavors.
Use Ground Beef: For a different texture, you can use ground beef instead of stew meat. Just cook it until browned and crumble it into smaller pieces before adding the broth.
Low-Carb Version: If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, replace the carrots with zucchini or cauliflower for a veggie-packed alternative that won’t impact your carb count.

Final Words

Beef Broccoli Soup is one of those dishes that’s simple yet satisfying. It’s the kind of meal you can rely on for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch the next day. The key to making it great is paying attention to the flavors and textures as you go. With the right beef, fresh vegetables, and a few thoughtful tweaks, this soup can be customized to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

Beef Broccoli Soup Recipe