Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Beef Vegetable Soup (Easy, Hearty & Budget-Friendly)
This Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Beef Vegetable Soup is the kind of cozy, no-stress dinner that makes busy days easier. Made with ground beef, frozen vegetables, tomato sauce, and beef broth, this simple slow cooker soup delivers big comfort with minimal prep. It’s hearty, filling, and packed with vegetables—perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a hungry family without standing over the stove.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Beef Vegetable Soup
Only 5 simple ingredients (plus salt and pepper)
Set-it-and-forget-it slow cooker meal
Budget-friendly and freezer-friendly
High in protein and vegetables
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
Kid-approved, customizable comfort food
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef (80–90% lean)
1 (24–26 oz) jar tomato-based pasta sauce or marinara
4 cups low-sodium beef broth (or enough to cover)
1 (16 oz) bag frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
Salt and black pepper, to taste
How to Make Slow Cooker Beef Vegetable Soup
1. Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned and no pink remains (about 6–8 minutes). Drain excess grease if needed.
2. Sauté the Onion
Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the beef and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and lightly translucent. This quick step adds rich flavor to the soup.
3. Assemble in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the beef and onion mixture to the slow cooker. Add the frozen vegetables, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir gently to combine. The liquid should just cover the ingredients.
4. Season
Lightly season with salt and black pepper, keeping in mind the broth and sauce may already contain salt.
5. Slow Cook
Cover and cook:
LOW: 6–8 hours
HIGH: 3–4 hours
The soup will thicken naturally as it cooks and the flavors meld together.
6. Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls and serve hot. Optional toppings include grated cheese, fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of cracked pepper.
Benefits of This Easy Beef Vegetable Soup
Nutritious & filling: Protein-rich beef combined with fiber-packed vegetables
Time-saving: Minimal prep, slow cooker does the work
Affordable: Uses pantry staples and frozen vegetables
Great for leftovers: Tastes even better the next day
Versatile: Works as a soup or thick stew depending on broth amount
Variations & Helpful Tips
Make it heartier: Add ½–¾ cup quick barley, small pasta, or cooked rice during the last hour
Boost flavor: Stir in Italian seasoning, a bay leaf, Worcestershire sauce, or soy sauce
Lighter option: Use lean ground turkey or chicken and add extra broth
More veggies: Add frozen spinach or kale during the last 30 minutes
Kid-friendly version: Use a mild marinara and finish with a small knob of butter to balance acidity
