Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Steak Soup Recipe
When you cozy up with a bowl of this Slow Cooker Steak Soup, you’ll immediately appreciate the rich flavors that come together effortlessly.
I love how simple it’s to toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work for me. The aroma fills my home, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Plus, it’s perfect for busy days when I want a hearty meal without the fuss. Each bite is comforting, thanks to the tender chunks of meat and fresh vegetables.
You’ll find yourself reaching for seconds, and honestly, who could resist that? It’s pure bliss in a bowl!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Steak Soup
When it comes to whipping up a delicious meal without breaking a sweat, this Slow Cooker Steak Soup recipe has got your back. Honestly, who doesn’t love a hearty soup that practically makes itself? You toss in a handful of ingredients and let the slow cooker do all the magic.
You can go about your day, and when it’s time to eat, you’re greeted with a warm, savory bowl of comfort. It’s like a cozy hug on a chilly day, and let me tell you, the ingredients play a starring role in making this happen. So, let’s gather what you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Steak Soup:
- 2 lbs coarsely ground chuck, browned and drained
- 5 cups water
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 celery ribs, chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 (14 ounce) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 ounce frozen mixed vegetables
- 5 beef bouillon cubes
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
Now, as you look through this ingredient list, don’t feel overwhelmed. Most of these items are probably hanging out in your kitchen already.
The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility, too. Don’t have ground chuck? No problem. You can use another cut of beef or even a different protein altogether. Just keep in mind that the cooking time might vary a bit.
And if you’re not a fan of certain veggies, feel free to swap them out for your favorites. Maybe you love bell peppers or peas—go ahead, make it your own. The key is to enjoy the process and create something that warms your heart and fills your belly.
How to Make Slow Cooker Steak Soup
Alright, let’s immerse ourselves in the heart of making this Slow Cooker Steak Soup. First things first, grab your 2 lbs of coarsely ground chuck. You’ll want to brown that in a skillet over medium heat until it’s nice and cooked through—think of it as giving your beef a little spa day before it takes a plunge in the slow cooker.
Once it’s beautifully browned, drain off any excess fat. No one wants a greasy soup, right? Now, toss that delicious beef into your slow cooker.
Next, it’s time to add some serious flavor. Pour in 5 cups of water, then add in 1 large chopped onion, 4 chopped celery ribs, and 3 sliced carrots. The colors of these veggies alone will make your kitchen feel like a garden.
Now, open up those 2 cans of diced tomatoes and let them join the mix, along with 1 ounce of frozen mixed vegetables. I like to think of it as a party in the slow cooker—everyone is invited.
Oh, don’t forget to drop in those 5 beef bouillon cubes and sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of pepper for a little kick. Give everything a good stir, cover it up, and let the magic happen on low heat for 8 to 12 hours. Yes, that’s a long time, but trust me, your patience will be rewarded.
As you near the finish line, about an hour before serving, it’s time to thicken things up. Turn the heat to high and prepare a paste with 1/2 cup of melted butter and 1/2 cup of flour. Mix it until it’s smooth—like that one friend who always seems to have their life together.
Pour this mixture into the slow cooker and stir until everything is well blended. Add in 2 teaspoons of salt to taste, and let it cook a little longer until the soup thickens beautifully.
Now, you can sit back, relax, and maybe think about how you’re basically a gourmet chef at this point. When you’re ready to serve, grab a bowl and savor that warm, comforting soup you just created. Enjoy every sip, and don’t forget to pat yourself on the back—you earned it!
Slow Cooker Steak Soup Substitutions & Variations
After you’ve mastered the basics of making Slow Cooker Steak Soup, you might find yourself wanting to switch things up a bit.
For a different flavor, try substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also add potatoes for extra heartiness or swap in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or green beans.
If you love spice, toss in some jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. For a rich twist, use red wine instead of some water.
Experimenting with herbs like thyme or rosemary can elevate the dish, too. Trust me, the possibilities are endless!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Steak Soup
While enjoying a warm bowl of Slow Cooker Steak Soup, you might wonder what to pair it with to enhance the experience.
I love serving it with crusty bread or a fresh baguette, perfect for dipping. A simple side salad can also brighten the meal, adding a crunch that contrasts nicely with the soup’s richness.
If I’m feeling indulgent, I might whip up some cheesy garlic bread.
For drinks, a light red wine complements the flavors well, or a crisp iced tea offers a revitalizing balance.
No matter what you choose, these sides elevate the warm, hearty soup beautifully!
Additional Tips & Notes
When you’re enjoying your Slow Cooker Steak Soup with those perfect sides, keep in mind a few tips to enhance the dish even further.
First, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth. If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can work wonders. Fresh herbs, like parsley or thyme, can brighten the flavors right before serving.
Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Finally, if you have leftovers, they’ll taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Enjoy your delicious creation!