Beef and Tomato Soup Recipe

Introduction

Beef and Tomato Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender beef, rich tomatoes, and a blend of savory spices to create a warming bowl of goodness. Perfect for chilly days or when you’re craving a classic, filling meal, this soup offers the perfect balance of flavors, with the savory depth of beef and the tangy sweetness of tomatoes. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or a simple weeknight meal, Beef and Tomato Soup is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

This soup is versatile and can be enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite sides. The tender chunks of beef, combined with the slightly acidic, sweet tomatoes and savory broth, create a comforting and rich flavor profile that feels like a bowl of home. Easy to make and loaded with nutrition, this Beef and Tomato Soup is a fantastic option for anyone looking for a cozy, satisfying meal. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to prepare this delicious dish, offer tips for getting it just right, and suggest fun variations to make the recipe your own.

Why You’ll Love Beef and Tomato Soup

• Rich and Hearty: The combination of tender beef and rich, juicy tomatoes creates a satisfying meal that is both filling and comforting. It’s the perfect dish to warm you up on a cold day.
• Packed with Flavor: The tomatoes lend a tangy sweetness to the soup, while the beef provides depth and richness. Seasoned with herbs and spices, this soup is incredibly flavorful without being too overwhelming.
• Simple and Easy to Make: Beef and Tomato Soup comes together with just a few simple ingredients. The prep work is quick, and the soup simmers to perfection, making it a great option for busy cooks.
• Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with protein from the beef and antioxidants from the tomatoes, this soup provides a nourishing, well-rounded meal. It’s a great way to enjoy a healthy, comforting dish without sacrificing flavor.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the seasoning to your taste and add extra vegetables, making this soup an adaptable dish to suit your family’s preferences.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and the use of optional ingredients.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Fat: 12-15g
• Carbohydrates: 18-20g
• Protein: 20-25g
• Fiber: 4-5g
• Sugar: 6-8g

Ingredients

For the Beef and Tomato Soup:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or stew beef)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 medium potato, peeled and cubed (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
• Optional toppings: grated parmesan cheese, fresh basil, or parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, gather all the ingredients and prepare them. Chop the onion and garlic, dice the carrots, celery, and potatoes (if using), and open the cans of diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Measure out your spices and seasonings to have everything ready for cooking.

2. Cook the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef (or stew beef, if preferred) to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break up the beef as it cooks. Brown the beef for 5-7 minutes, ensuring that it is fully cooked and no longer pink. If you’re using stew beef, cook it until it’s browned on all sides and slightly tender.

Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat from the pot, if necessary. This will help reduce the fat content of the soup and keep the flavor focused on the beef and tomatoes.

3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion to the pot with the beef and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and soft. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until the garlic becomes fragrant. This step builds the aromatic base for the soup, enhancing the overall flavor.

4. Add the Tomatoes and Broth

Once the onion and garlic have softened, add the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato paste, and beef broth to the pot. Stir to combine. The tomato paste will help thicken the soup and add a rich depth of flavor, while the beef broth provides the savory base for the soup.

5. Season the Soup

Add the dried oregano, dried basil, sugar (if using), and bay leaf to the soup. Stir everything together and bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat. Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, uncovered, for about 10 minutes. The soup will begin to thicken and the flavors will start to meld together.

6. Add the Vegetables

After the soup has simmered for 10 minutes, add the diced carrots, celery, and potatoes (if using) to the pot. Stir everything together and continue simmering for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. This will give the vegetables time to cook through and soak up all the delicious flavors of the soup.

7. Taste and Adjust the Seasonings

Once the vegetables are tender, taste the soup and adjust the seasonings. If you like a bit more sweetness, add a pinch more sugar. You can also add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

8. Serve the Soup

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately. For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese on top, or garnish with fresh basil or parsley. This adds a burst of freshness and a little extra richness to each bowl.

Tips for Perfect Beef and Tomato Soup

• Use Stew Beef for More Texture: If you prefer a heartier, chunkier soup, use stew beef instead of ground beef. Stew beef becomes incredibly tender and flavorful as it simmers, making it a great choice for this soup.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans. This will increase the nutrition and add more variety to the flavor.
• Use Homemade Beef Broth: If you have homemade beef broth on hand, use it for a richer, more flavorful base. Alternatively, you can use store-bought broth, but be sure to check the salt content to avoid over-seasoning the soup.
• Don’t Skip the Tomato Paste: The tomato paste is key to giving the soup a deep, rich tomato flavor and a thicker consistency. Don’t skip this ingredient, as it adds a lot of depth to the final soup.
• Adjust the Texture: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup. This will break down the vegetables and beef, creating a creamier texture. Alternatively, you can blend a portion of the soup in a regular blender and return it to the pot for a thicker consistency.

Variations of Beef and Tomato Soup

• Beef and Tomato Soup with Pasta: Add some cooked pasta, such as elbow macaroni or small shells, to the soup for a heartier, more filling meal. The pasta will absorb the soup’s flavors and create a satisfying combination.
• Beef and Tomato Soup with Rice: For a different twist, stir in some cooked rice towards the end of cooking. The rice will soak up the rich broth and add another layer of texture to the soup.
• Spicy Beef and Tomato Soup: If you like a little heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. This will give the soup a spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes.
• Beef and Tomato Soup with Beans: For added protein and fiber, stir in a can of beans such as kidney beans or black beans. These will add heartiness and extra nutrition to the soup.
• Creamy Beef and Tomato Soup: For a creamy version of this soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or whole milk during the last few minutes of cooking. This will add a smooth richness to the soup without overpowering the flavors.

Storage and Shelf Life

Beef and Tomato Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, so it will taste even better the next day. When reheating, you may need to add a little extra beef broth or water if the soup has thickened too much.

For longer storage, you can freeze the soup. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Beef and Tomato Soup

While Beef and Tomato Soup is a complete meal on its own, it pairs beautifully with several side dishes:

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm loaf of crusty bread or a baguette. The bread is perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up all the flavorful broth.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic grilled cheese sandwich is the perfect companion to this soup. The melty cheese and crispy bread create a satisfying contrast to the rich, savory soup.
• Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a fresh contrast to the richness of the soup. Try a salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, or carrots. These can add extra flavor and texture to the meal.

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Conclusion

Beef and Tomato Soup is a classic, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal to enjoy on a cold evening or a hearty dish to feed the family, this soup provides a delicious and satisfying option. With its rich tomato base, tender beef, and flavorful vegetables, Beef and Tomato Soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

The best part is how easy it is to make, with simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Plus, with the ability to customize it with different vegetables, seasonings, and toppings, you can make this soup your own. Try it today, and enjoy the heartwarming flavors of Beef and Tomato Soup!