When the chilly weather sets in, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to bring comfort and joy. One such dish that captures the essence of cozy evenings is Slow Cooker Ground Beef and Tomato Soup. This hearty soup is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. The combination of savory ground beef and rich, tangy tomatoes creates a flavor that warms the soul. Plus, with the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it while the flavors meld together beautifully. The slow cooking process allows the meat to tenderize and the spices to infuse, offering a depth of flavor that is hard to resist.

Ingredients

• For the Soup:
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• For Garnish (optional):
  • Chopped fresh parsley
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Crusty bread or croutons

For the best flavor, choose high-quality ground beef and fresh vegetables. Look for ground beef that is at least 80% lean for a nice balance of flavor and moisture. If you prefer a leaner soup, opt for ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. This can be a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor. Additionally, using organic tomatoes can enhance the overall taste of the soup. The vibrant red color of the crushed tomatoes not only looks appealing but also signifies the presence of lycopene, a beneficial antioxidant. You can learn more about this topic.

Steps / Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Make sure the beef is cooked through and no longer pink. Drain excess fat to prevent your soup from becoming greasy.
2. Add Aromatics: Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. The aroma of the garlic and onion will enhance the base flavor of your soup significantly.
3. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Carefully transfer the beef mixture to your slow cooker, scraping the pan to get all those delicious browned bits, as they add flavor.
4. Add Remaining Ingredients: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, sliced carrots, sliced celery, oregano, basil, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients well, ensuring that the tomato and broth are evenly mixed with the spices.
5. Cook: Cover the slow cooker, set it to low, and cook for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully. You will know it’s ready when the vegetables are tender and the aroma fills your kitchen.
6. Final Touches: Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary before serving. If desired, sprinkle with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation. This final step not only enhances the taste but also adds a beautiful visual contrast.

Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Slow Cooker Ground Beef and Tomato Soup turns out perfectly, consider these expert tips: Check out our related guide for more tips.

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making the soup even more delicious on the following day.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it. Simply add it to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients when you’re ready to cook. This is especially handy for meal prep on busy days.
• Avoid Overcooking: If using lean ground beef, be cautious of overcooking the soup, as it may become dry. Stir occasionally during the cooking process to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
• Customize Your Soup: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or green beans to enhance nutrition and flavor. You can also experiment with spices such as red pepper flakes for a kick or smoked paprika for a smoky depth.

Conclusion

Cooking up a batch of Slow Cooker Ground Beef and Tomato Soup is a delightful way to provide your family with a nourishing meal that will keep them coming back for seconds. This dish embodies the essence of comfort food, perfect for any cozy winter evening. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors and the convenience of one-pot meal prep, and don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations! Your feedback could inspire others to try this wonderful recipe!

Slow Cooker Ground Beef and Tomato Soup

★★★★★ 5 from 1 vote

Course: Dinner Cuisine: American Difficulty: Easy

🍽️

Servings

6

⏱️

Prep Time

15 min

🍳

Cook Time

8 hr

🔥

Calories

—

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This hearty soup is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. The combination of savory ground beef and rich, tangy tomatoes creates a flavor that warms the soul.

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Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish, optional)
• Crusty bread or croutons (for garnish, optional)

Directions

1.

In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat.

2.

Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.

3.

Transfer the beef mixture to your slow cooker, scraping the pan to get all the browned bits.

4.

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, sliced carrots, sliced celery, oregano, basil, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

5.

Cover the slow cooker, set it to low, and cook for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.

6.

Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. If desired, sprinkle with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition Facts