Beef Minestrone Soup

There’s something incredibly comforting about a big pot of soup simmering on the stove, especially when it’s loaded with hearty vegetables, tender beef, and savory broth. I remember the first time I made beef minestrone soup on a snowy winter afternoon—it quickly became a family favorite. The kitchen filled with the rich aroma of garlic, herbs, and simmering tomatoes, and we couldn’t wait to dig in. This recipe has since become one of my go-to meals when I want something filling, wholesome, and soul-warming. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this beef minestrone soup never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Rich, Deep Flavor:
Thanks to browned beef, aromatic vegetables, and Italian herbs, this soup has a deep and savory flavor that develops beautifully as it simmers.

2. Hearty and Filling:
Packed with protein, vegetables, beans, and pasta, this soup is a complete meal in a bowl. It’s satisfying enough to serve on its own with just a slice of bread.

3. Perfect for Any Season:
While it’s especially comforting in the colder months, this soup is also great year-round. It uses pantry staples and seasonal veggies, so it’s versatile and accessible.

4. Great for Meal Prep:
This beef minestrone keeps well and tastes even better the next day. Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week—it freezes beautifully, too.

5. Customizable:
Swap in different vegetables or pasta, or go low-carb with a few simple tweaks. It’s an adaptable dish that suits many tastes and dietary needs.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Here’s what you’ll need to make a flavorful pot of beef minestrone soup:

Ground beef:
I use lean ground beef for rich flavor without excess grease. You can also use ground turkey or ground chicken if you prefer a lighter option.

Vegetables:
Onions, carrots, and celery create the classic aromatic base. Zucchini and green beans are added for freshness and texture. You can also include spinach, kale, or bell peppers.

Garlic:
Fresh garlic is essential for a savory depth of flavor. Don’t skip it.

Crushed tomatoes & tomato paste:
These give the soup its hearty tomato base and help thicken it slightly. If you don’t have crushed tomatoes, use diced tomatoes or tomato sauce.

Beef broth:
This boosts the meaty flavor of the soup. Chicken or vegetable broth can also be used in a pinch.

Beans:
Cannellini beans and red kidney beans add fiber and heartiness. You can substitute chickpeas, pinto beans, or black beans if needed.

Pasta:
Ditalini or small elbow pasta works well here. Gluten-free pasta or whole wheat pasta are good alternatives.

Italian seasoning:
A blend of dried basil, oregano, and thyme works beautifully. You can also use fresh herbs or add a bay leaf for extra flavor.

Salt and pepper:
Adjust to taste. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick if you like a little heat.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Brown the beef
In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked—about 6 to 8 minutes. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the aromatics
Add 1 diced onion, 2 chopped carrots, and 2 chopped celery stalks to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in 4 minced garlic cloves and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the soup base
Add 1 tablespoon tomato paste and stir to coat the vegetables. Pour in 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes and 6 cups of beef broth. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Add vegetables and seasoning
Stir in 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1 cup chopped green beans, and 1 chopped zucchini. Add 1 can (15 ounces) of drained cannellini beans and 1 can (15 ounces) of drained kidney beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Simmer the soup
Reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soften.

Step 6: Add pasta
Stir in 3/4 cup of ditalini or elbow pasta. Simmer for an additional 8 to 10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. If needed, add a splash of broth or water to adjust the consistency.

Step 7: Taste and serve
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls and serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired.

If you love hearty soups, this mac and cheese version offers the same comforting flavors with the convenience of hands-off cooking, here how to make The Ultimate Guide to Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole.

Additional Tips & Variations

Make it spicy:
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño along with the garlic for a little heat.

Use leftovers wisely:
This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and freezes for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to airtight containers.

Low-carb option:
Skip the pasta and add extra beans or chopped cauliflower for a hearty, low-carb version.

Add greens:
Stir in a handful of spinach or chopped kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added nutrients and color.

Make it creamy:
Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta at the end for a rich, creamy twist.

FAQs

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients (except pasta) to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. Add cooked pasta just before serving.

Can I freeze beef minestrone soup?
Absolutely. Let the soup cool, then freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove. You may want to add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.

What can I use instead of beef?
Ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives. For a vegetarian version, skip the meat entirely and use vegetable broth with more beans or lentils.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not by default, but you can make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta or omitting the pasta altogether and adding extra beans or rice.

Can I add more veggies?
Of course! Minestrone is very forgiving. Try chopped spinach, cabbage, bell peppers, or even sweet potatoes for added flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

Beef minestrone soup is the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s full of hearty ingredients, cozy flavors, and nourishing goodness that everyone at the table will love. Whether you’re looking for a filling dinner, a make-ahead lunch, or a crowd-pleasing dish to share, this recipe has you covered. Plus, it’s easy to customize to suit your tastes and pantry staples. Give it a try you might just find it becomes a new family favorite, just like it did in my home.

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