When the weather turns chilly or you crave a comforting meal, few dishes are as satisfying as a warm, hearty bowl of Italian Vegetable Beef Soup. Packed with tender beef, colorful vegetables, and aromatic Italian herbs, this soup is not only filling but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for a family dinner, meal prep, or even freezing for later, this recipe combines simplicity with rich, robust flavors that everyone will love.

This recipe is inspired by classic Italian flavors but streamlined for the home cook. With minimal prep and a combination of fresh and pantry staples, you can have a pot of soup simmering in less than an hour. The combination of beef, vegetables, and Italian seasonings creates a comforting depth of flavor, making it a go-to soup for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

1 lb (450 g) ground beef or stew beef, cut into small cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 medium zucchini, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 can (14 oz/400 g) diced tomatoes
6 cups beef or vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow macaroni)
2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

Prepare the beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef or cubed stew beef and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
Sauté vegetables: In the same pot, add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until slightly softened. Add garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Add remaining vegetables: Stir in zucchini, bell pepper, and green beans. Cook for 2–3 minutes to start softening the vegetables.
Combine liquids and seasonings: Add the diced tomatoes (with juice) and beef broth to the pot. Stir in basil, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Return the cooked beef to the pot. Season with salt and pepper.
Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add pasta and greens: About 10 minutes before serving, stir in pasta and chopped spinach or kale. Cook until pasta is tender. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Serve: Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for an extra flavor boost. Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Italian Vegetable Beef Soup

Choose the right beef: For a richer flavor, stew beef is preferred. Ground beef works perfectly for a quicker version.
Vegetable variations: Feel free to add potatoes, corn, peas, or any seasonal vegetables. The soup is very forgiving.
Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as flavors meld. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing tips: Freeze in individual portions for a quick meal. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Variations

Low-carb version: Skip the pasta and add more vegetables like cauliflower or zucchini noodles.
Spicy kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for a spicier version.
Slow cooker method: Combine all ingredients except pasta and greens in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours. Add pasta in the last 15 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a warm slice of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad.
Top with a sprinkle of Parmesan and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a restaurant-style touch.
Serve alongside a glass of red wine for a cozy Italian-inspired dinner.

Fun Facts & Cultural Context

Italian soups are all about simplicity: Traditional Italian soups often combine whatever fresh vegetables and proteins are on hand. This recipe reflects that approach with flexibility and comfort.
A balance of textures and flavors: The tender beef, soft pasta, and crisp vegetables create a pleasing mix that’s both hearty and nutritious.
Healthy and family-friendly: With lean protein, plenty of vegetables, and whole-grain pasta options, this soup is a complete, balanced meal.

This Italian Vegetable Beef Soup brings warmth, flavor, and nostalgia to the table while being simple enough for weeknight dinners. The combination of vegetables, beef, herbs, and pasta makes it a crowd-pleaser, comforting to both kids and adults alike.