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When the weather turns chilly or you’re in need of a comforting meal, few things beat a hearty, old-fashioned beef soup.
These soups, passed down through generations, are filled with rich flavors, tender beef, and an assortment of nourishing vegetables, making them the perfect dish for any occasion.
Whether you’re looking for a traditional recipe with a rich broth, a hearty soup filled with beans and vegetables, or something with a bit more flair, there’s an old-fashioned beef soup recipe here for everyone.
In this blog, we’ve rounded up 20+ classic beef soup recipes that will warm you up from the inside out.
Each recipe features beef as the star ingredient, with a variety of textures and flavors that are perfect for cozy nights at home or gatherings with family and friends.
From simple one-pot dishes to those with slow-cooked depth, these old-fashioned soups are sure to become family favorites.
So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into these comforting and nourishing beef soup recipes!
20+ Delicious Old-Fashioned Beef Soup Recipes to Try Today
Old-fashioned beef soups are more than just meals; they’re a tradition that brings warmth and comfort to the table.
With tender beef, hearty vegetables, and flavorful broths, these soups have stood the test of time and continue to satisfy hungry bellies.
Whether you’re making a simple beef stew or a complex, slow-cooked soup, these recipes offer a variety of ways to enjoy the humble beauty of beef soup.
So, the next time you’re looking for a dish to feed the family or warm up on a cold day, turn to these tried-and-true beef soup recipes.
They’re bound to become cherished favorites in your home.
Old-Fashioned Beef Vegetable Soup
This hearty beef vegetable soup is a timeless classic, reminiscent of cozy family dinners. Packed with tender beef, garden-fresh vegetables, and a savory broth, this dish brings comfort to any table. It’s perfect for warming up on a chilly evening, offering a balanced meal that’s both nutritious and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef chuck or stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the beef and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add the carrots, celery, and potatoes. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Return the beef to the pot and pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Add thyme, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 hours.
- Add green beans and corn in the last 20 minutes of cooking. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Remove the bay leaf and serve hot with crusty bread.
Old-fashioned beef vegetable soup is more than a meal—it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl. The combination of slow-cooked beef and vibrant vegetables creates a depth of flavor that feels like a warm hug. Pair it with fresh bread or a side salad for a complete, nostalgic dinner.
Grandma’s Barley and Beef Soup
Barley and beef soup is a humble yet flavorful dish that has stood the test of time. This recipe takes you back to the simple joys of home-cooked meals made with love. The chewy barley and tender beef blend beautifully with a rich, aromatic broth, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or meal prepping for the week.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef shank or stew meat, cubed
- 2 tbsp butter or oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 cup pearl barley
- 8 cups beef stock
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat butter or oil in a large soup pot. Add beef and sear until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
- Add mushrooms and cook for 3 minutes.
- Return the beef to the pot, add the barley, beef stock, bay leaves, parsley, and rosemary. Stir well.
- Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer covered for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Remove bay leaves, season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.
Grandma’s barley and beef soup is a testament to the enduring charm of traditional recipes. Each spoonful is a harmonious blend of wholesome ingredients and heartwarming flavors. Serve this soup with a side of buttered rolls for an unbeatable, old-fashioned dining experience.
Classic Beef and Cabbage Soup
Beef and cabbage soup is a rustic dish filled with deep flavors and nourishing ingredients. Popular in old-fashioned kitchens, this recipe marries tender chunks of beef with the earthy sweetness of cabbage. It’s a hearty, soul-soothing meal perfect for both weeknight dinners and lazy Sunday lunches.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 carrots, chopped
- 2 cups cabbage, shredded
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups beef stock
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat oil in a large pot and brown the beef on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add carrots and cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato paste and smoked paprika, then return the beef to the pot.
- Add cabbage, diced tomatoes, beef stock, and caraway seeds. Mix well.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 1.5 hours or until beef is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper before serving.
Classic beef and cabbage soup is a timeless recipe that delivers warmth and nourishment with every bite. The combination of tender beef and sweet cabbage creates a satisfying meal, especially when served with hearty rye bread or a dollop of sour cream on top.
Homestyle Beef and Potato Soup
Homestyle beef and potato soup is a cozy, stick-to-your-ribs meal that brings back memories of family dinners. This hearty recipe combines tender beef with creamy potatoes in a rich, savory broth. Perfect for chilly nights, it’s a satisfying way to enjoy simple, wholesome ingredients that deliver big flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into small pieces
- 2 tbsp butter or oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat butter or oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the beef, then remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
- Add the potatoes, beef broth, thyme, paprika, and bay leaf. Stir well.
- Return the beef to the pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
- Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for another 10 minutes.
- Remove the bay leaf, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with parsley before serving.
Homestyle beef and potato soup is a comforting classic that turns simple ingredients into a meal full of rich and creamy goodness. It’s ideal for sharing with loved ones, and leftovers taste even better the next day. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Old-Fashioned Beef and Lentil Soup
Beef and lentil soup is a rustic favorite that has graced family tables for generations. This nourishing dish combines tender beef, protein-packed lentils, and aromatic spices for a hearty meal that’s as wholesome as it is flavorful. It’s the perfect option for a comforting and nutrient-rich dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef chuck or stew meat, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot. Brown the beef, then remove and set aside.
- Sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in the same pot until softened.
- Stir in lentils, beef broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, and the bay leaf. Mix well.
- Add the browned beef back into the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 hours.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove the bay leaf and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Old-fashioned beef and lentil soup is a wholesome blend of earthy flavors and hearty textures. It’s a meal that fills you up without weighing you down, making it perfect for lunch or dinner. Serve with warm bread for a complete and satisfying dining experience.
Savory Beef and Tomato Soup
Beef and tomato soup is a classic recipe that strikes the perfect balance between tangy tomatoes and savory beef. This timeless dish is rich in flavor and easy to prepare, making it a favorite for busy weeknights and leisurely weekends alike. The addition of fresh herbs adds a fragrant touch to this delicious comfort food.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef or beef stew meat, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Brown the beef and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Stir in carrots, celery, tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, basil, and oregano. Mix well.
- Add the beef back into the pot. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 1 hour.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, and garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Savory beef and tomato soup is a nostalgic dish that combines robust flavors and a comforting texture. Its vibrant tomato base pairs beautifully with the tender beef, creating a meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Serve with a grilled cheese sandwich or crackers for a delightful, old-fashioned feast.
Traditional Beef and Bean Soup
Beef and bean soup is a hearty, filling dish that has been a favorite in many households for generations. The tender chunks of beef and creamy beans simmered in a flavorful broth make this soup an excellent choice for a nourishing meal. This old-fashioned recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd or preparing in advance for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add beef and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
- Add the beans, beef broth, diced tomatoes, carrots, celery, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir well.
- Return the beef to the pot and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let simmer for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until beans are tender.
- Remove the bay leaf, season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.
Traditional beef and bean soup is a meal that’s as hearty as it is comforting. The combination of tender beef, creamy beans, and savory vegetables makes it a filling option for lunch or dinner. It’s an excellent recipe for batch cooking, as the flavors deepen and improve the next day. Pair with cornbread or crackers for a complete meal.
Old-Fashioned Beef and Sweet Corn Soup
This beef and sweet corn soup is a nostalgic dish that combines the savory goodness of beef with the natural sweetness of corn. With its hearty texture and deliciously simple flavors, this soup is perfect for a cozy dinner or a lunch that feels like a warm embrace. It’s easy to make and can be enjoyed by the whole family.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef stew meat or chuck, cubed
- 2 tbsp butter or oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups frozen corn kernels
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup carrots, chopped
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat butter or oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the beef cubes and set them aside.
- In the same pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
- Add beef broth, corn, potatoes, carrots, thyme, and the browned beef. Stir well.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions before serving.
Old-fashioned beef and sweet corn soup is a delightful dish that blends savory and sweet flavors in a comforting bowl. The beef provides richness, while the corn adds a touch of natural sweetness that balances the dish beautifully. It’s perfect for enjoying with crusty bread or a light salad on the side.
Classic Beef and Cabbage Soup
Beef and cabbage soup is a staple of old-fashioned kitchens, offering a satisfying meal made from simple ingredients. The tender beef combines perfectly with the slightly sweet, earthy cabbage for a dish that’s nourishing and flavorful. This soup is ideal for any time of year and is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef stew meat or brisket, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the beef cubes on all sides and remove from the pot.
- In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
- Add the beef broth, cabbage, potatoes, carrots, bay leaf, and thyme. Stir well.
- Return the beef to the pot and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked.
- Remove the bay leaf, season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.
Classic beef and cabbage soup is a heartwarming dish that has stood the test of time. The tender beef and cabbage come together to create a flavorful, hearty meal that’s both comforting and nourishing. Serve it with a slice of rustic bread or a dollop of sour cream for an even more satisfying meal.
Old-Fashioned Beef and Vegetable Soup
Old-fashioned beef and vegetable soup is a wholesome, nutrient-packed dish that has been passed down through generations. The combination of tender beef, a variety of vegetables, and a savory broth creates a comforting meal that’s both filling and delicious. It’s the perfect way to use up leftover vegetables, making it a versatile option for any day of the week.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef stew meat or chuck roast, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add beef and brown on all sides. Remove beef and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
- Add the carrots, celery, potatoes, green beans, and zucchini. Stir well.
- Pour in the beef broth, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Return the beef to the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and vegetables are cooked.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and remove the bay leaf before serving.
This old-fashioned beef and vegetable soup is the epitome of comfort food. With tender beef and a medley of vegetables, it’s both satisfying and full of flavor. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this soup can be enjoyed on its own or paired with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Beef and Barley Soup
Beef and barley soup is a hearty and nutritious meal that has stood the test of time. Barley’s chewy texture and the rich flavor of tender beef make this soup a favorite during colder months. This dish is not only comforting but also packed with fiber and protein, making it a well-rounded option for any dinner table.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the beef cubes and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.
- Add the barley, beef broth, diced tomatoes, carrots, celery, thyme, and rosemary. Stir to combine.
- Return the beef to the pot and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let the soup simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef and barley are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot.
Beef and barley soup is a deliciously hearty and nutritious option that’s perfect for a satisfying meal. The combination of beef, barley, and vegetables makes for a filling dish that can stand alone or be paired with a side salad. This classic recipe is perfect for meal prep, as it only gets better with time.
Beef and Potato Chowder
Beef and potato chowder is a creamy and comforting soup that features tender beef, potatoes, and a rich, velvety broth. This dish is a perfect balance of savory and creamy, making it an excellent choice for a cozy meal during the cooler months. It’s filling enough to be served as a main course and pairs wonderfully with a side of warm bread.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped chives for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles.
- Add the onion and garlic to the pot, cooking until softened.
- Add the potatoes, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the milk and cream and simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped chives before serving.
Beef and potato chowder is the ultimate comfort food, offering creamy, savory goodness in every spoonful. The tender beef and potatoes combined with the creamy broth make this a meal that will keep you warm and satisfied. It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that’s perfect for a filling dinner or for sharing with loved ones. Pair it with crackers or a fresh green salad for the perfect meal.
Classic Beef and Mushroom Soup
Classic beef and mushroom soup is a deeply flavorful, comforting dish that brings together the savory taste of beef with the earthy richness of mushrooms. The combination of tender beef and meaty mushrooms in a hearty broth creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any season. This soup is simple yet elegant, making it ideal for a family dinner or serving to guests on a cold evening.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups mushrooms, sliced (preferably cremini or button mushrooms)
- 6 cups beef broth
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add beef and brown on all sides. Remove beef and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add mushrooms and cook for about 5 minutes until they release their juices and start to brown.
- Add the beef broth, potatoes, thyme, rosemary, and browned beef. Stir well to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Classic beef and mushroom soup is a rich, flavorful dish that showcases the deep, earthy flavor of mushrooms paired with tender beef. It’s a satisfying, hearty meal perfect for cool evenings. The combination of ingredients creates a balanced, delicious bowl of soup that pairs well with warm, crusty bread for dipping.
Old-Fashioned Beef and Lentil Soup
Beef and lentil soup is a classic dish that combines the heartiness of beef with the nutritional benefits of lentils. Packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, this soup is perfect for anyone looking for a wholesome, filling meal. The lentils add a beautiful texture, while the beef brings richness to the broth. This old-fashioned soup is easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef stew meat, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
- 6 cups beef broth
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp turmeric
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes on all sides and remove from the pot.
- In the same pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
- Add the lentils, beef broth, carrots, celery, cumin, turmeric, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
- Return the beef to the pot and bring the soup to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the lentils are tender and the beef is cooked through.
- Remove the bay leaf and season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Beef and lentil soup is a nourishing, filling dish that is perfect for a hearty meal. The combination of beef and lentils provides a great balance of protein and fiber, making it a perfect option for a wholesome dinner. It’s easy to prepare, and the flavors only improve as it simmers, making it a fantastic dish to make ahead. Enjoy it with some crusty bread or a simple side salad.
Beef and Cabbage Soup with Tomatoes
Beef and cabbage soup with tomatoes is a flavorful, satisfying dish that combines tender beef with the hearty texture of cabbage, accented by the tang of tomatoes. This old-fashioned soup is a family favorite, offering a complete, nourishing meal that’s easy to make and perfect for those seeking a hearty, one-pot meal. The rich flavors develop as the soup simmers, making it an ideal dish for leftovers.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef stew meat or chuck roast, cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the beef cubes and brown on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
- Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, cabbage, potatoes, basil, oregano, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
- Return the beef to the pot and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for about 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked.
- Remove the bay leaf, season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.
Beef and cabbage soup with tomatoes is a satisfying, easy-to-make dish that combines the richness of beef with the refreshing crunch of cabbage and the tang of tomatoes. The soup is simple but flavorful and can be easily adapted to suit your taste. It’s a great option for a filling meal that the whole family will enjoy. Pair it with a slice of rustic bread for a comforting meal.
Note: More recipes are coming soon!