The moment the rich aroma of beef and herbs starts to fill the kitchen, I know I’ve discovered something special. This Spinach Beef Soup is more than just a comfort food; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl on cold days. After a long week of takeout and quick meals, I craved something hearty and fulfilling, so I set out to whip up this delightful concoction. The tender beef mingles beautifully with the fresh spinach and vibrant veggies, creating a symphony of flavor that’s both nourishing and satisfying.
What I love most about this soup is its versatility—perfect for a family dinner or as a cozy dish for entertaining friends. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, proving that home-cooked meals can still fit our busy schedules. So, grab your pot and let’s dive into this recipe that will surely become a staple in your home!
Why You'll Love This Spinach Beef Soup
- This Spinach Beef Soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for any weeknight meal.
- Packed with rich flavors from tender beef and vibrant vegetables, every spoonful is a delightful experience.
- Its versatility means you can enjoy it as a comforting dinner or impress guests at a gathering.
- The beautiful presentation of the fresh spinach and colorful veggies makes it as visually appealing as it is delicious.
- This soup is a true crowd-pleaser that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings in no time.
- Enjoy a hearty meal that will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Spinach Beef Soup Ingredients
• Dive into the delightful flavors of Spinach Beef Soup with these simple ingredients.
For the Soup Base
- Beef stew meat – this cut becomes wonderfully tender as it simmers, providing a rich depth of flavor.
- Olive oil – helps brown the meat and adds a lovely richness to the soup.
- Medium onion – sautéing this adds sweetness and a fragrant aroma to the mix.
- Garlic – crushed or minced, it infuses the soup with irresistible flavor.
- Carrots – these lend a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
- Celery stalks – a classic base vegetable that adds crunch and flavor.
For the Liquid
- Beef broth – enhances the beefy richness of the soup; opt for low-sodium for more control over saltiness.
- Water – balances the broth to create the perfect consistency for your soup.
For Flavor
- Dried thyme – brings a warm, earthy flavor that complements the beef beautifully.
- Dried oregano – adds a hint of freshness that rounds out the overall taste.
- Salt and pepper – essential for enhancing and balancing all the flavors to your liking.
For the Finishing Touch
- Fresh spinach – packed with nutrients, it adds vibrant color and a subtle earthy taste when wilted.
- Diced tomatoes – their acidity brightens the soup and complements the beef perfectly.
- Lemon juice (optional) – a splash adds brightness and enhances all the savory flavors in the soup.
How to Make Spinach Beef Soup
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Heat the Oil: Start by warming the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. This will create a lovely base for your flavors to build upon.
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Brown the Beef: Add the beef stew meat to the pot, seasoning it generously with salt and pepper. Sear the meat on all sides for about 5–7 minutes until it’s beautifully browned.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, letting them sauté for about 3–4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent, filling your kitchen with an enticing aroma.
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Add Veggies: Stir in the sliced carrots and celery. Cook for another 3–4 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften just a bit and enhance the flavor of the base.
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Mix in Liquids: Pour the beef broth and water into the pot, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. These liquids will help create a rich, comforting soup.
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Season It Up: Sprinkle the dried thyme and oregano into the pot along with additional salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together to meld the flavors.
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Simmer Slowly: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let your soup simmer for about 45 minutes. This will make the beef tender and allow all those delightful flavors to infuse together.
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Add Spinach & Tomatoes: Incorporate the chopped spinach and diced tomatoes along with their juices into the pot. Cook for an additional 5–10 minutes until the spinach wilts and the soup is vibrant.
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Brighten It Up: If you desire, stir in the lemon juice at this stage for an added layer of freshness that brightens the entire dish.
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Taste & Adjust: Sample your soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. This final touch ensures it’s perfectly to your liking.
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Serve Warm: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve it hot, allowing everyone to enjoy its heartwarming richness.
Optional: Sprinkle fresh herbs on top for a burst of color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing this Spinach Beef Soup ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious moments during your busy week! You can chop the vegetables (onion, carrots, celery) and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The beef can be browned and placed in the pot, ready for the broth, and should be refrigerated for up to 24 hours to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply add the liquids, seasonings, and let it simmer before incorporating the spinach and tomatoes just before serving. This ensures each bowl is just as delicious and nutrient-packed as if you made it fresh that day!
What to Serve with Spinach Beef Soup?
Elevate your dining experience by crafting a well-rounded meal that complements the warm, hearty flavors of this nourishing soup.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up the delicious broth, crusty bread adds a satisfying crunch that balances the soup’s warmth.
- Garlic Breadsticks: These flavorful, buttery sticks enhance your meal with delightful garlic aroma while providing a satisfying texture.
- Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a light and refreshing contrast to the rich soup. Topped with nuts or cheese, it can elevate the whole dish.
- Cheesy Grilled Sandwiches: Warm, gooey cheese sandwiches provide a delightful melty goodness that pairs beautifully with the soup’s heartiness. The crunch of the toasted bread is welcomed alongside.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies bring a natural sweetness and caramelization that complements the native flavors within the soup. Their combination of textures makes for a delightful side.
- Crispy Potato Wedges: These seasoned wedges add a comforting crunch and golden color that works marvelously with the soup’s tender beef and vibrant spinach.
- Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine can enhance the meal’s depth while harmonizing with the beef flavors splendidly.
- Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a light lemon sorbet will refresh your palate after the rich soup, providing a zesty finish to the meal.
- Fruit Tart: A sweet fruit tart can round off your evening beautifully; its bright flavors contrast with the broth’s heartiness while offering a lovely visual appeal.
Spinach Beef Soup Variations
Feel free to explore these creative twists and make this comforting soup your own!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute regular beef broth with a plant-based alternative for a lighter soup without compromising flavor.
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Vegetarian Option: Swap out the beef for chickpeas or lentils, increasing fiber while keeping the texture hearty and satisfying.
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a delightful heat that warms you from the inside out.
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Herb Boost: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the flavor—add them just before serving for a burst of freshness.
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Root Veggie Twist: Incorporate sweet potatoes or turnips instead of carrots for a sweeter, earthy flavor that’s enriching and wholesome.
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Creamy Version: Stir in a bit of cream or coconut milk before serving for a lush, velvety texture that enriches each spoonful.
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Potato Addition: Diced potatoes can be added during the simmering stage for an extra filling element and a nice bite.
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Citrus Zing: Besides lemon juice, try a splash of lime or even orange juice for a bright twist that adds an unexpected layer of flavor.
How to Store and Freeze Spinach Beef Soup
Room Temperature: Store your Spinach Beef Soup at room temperature for no longer than 2 hours to maintain its freshness and safety.
Fridge: Keep the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing.
Freezer: Freeze the soup in individual portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to restore consistency.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Spinach Beef Soup, be sure to brown the beef properly to develop rich flavors; this step enhances the overall taste.
- Avoid overcooking the spinach by adding it at the end of the cooking process for a vibrant color and fresh flavor.
- To maximize the depth of flavor, consider using homemade beef broth if possible, as it adds a more robust taste.
- Simmer the soup gently on low heat to ensure the beef becomes tender without losing moisture and flavor.
- Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning at the end for the perfect balance of flavors.
Spinach Beef Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best beef stew meat?
When selecting beef stew meat, look for cuts labeled as chuck, round, or brisket. The best meat for stewing should have some marbling (a bit of fat) as this enhances flavor and tenderness during cooking. Ideally, you want pieces that are bright red with minimal dark spots, which indicate freshness.
How long can I store leftover Spinach Beef Soup in the refrigerator?
You can store your Spinach Beef Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let the soup cool completely before sealing it up to avoid condensation, which can affect texture and flavor.
Can I freeze Spinach Beef Soup, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! I often freeze my soups for later. To freeze Spinach Beef Soup, let it cool down completely, then pour it into airtight containers or freezer bags, dividing it into portion sizes for easy reheating. It should last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.
What should I do if my soup is too salty?
If you find that your Spinach Beef Soup is too salty, there’s a simple fix! Add a peeled, whole potato to the pot and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. The potato acts like a sponge, soaking up excess salt. Remove it before serving. You can also dilute the soup with more broth or water, but be sure to check the seasoning afterward.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh for the soup?
Yes, you can definitely substitute frozen spinach for fresh! When using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw it and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the soup. It will wilt down quickly, similar to fresh spinach, but it’s a fantastic time-saver on busy days!
Is this Spinach Beef Soup suitable for pets?
While the ingredients in Spinach Beef Soup are generally safe, it’s best not to share with pets. Ingredients like onion and garlic can be harmful to dogs and cats. If you’d like to make a pet-friendly version, consider setting aside some plain, unseasoned beef and cooked spinach for your furry friend.
Spinach Beef Soup
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef stew meat cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
- 1 medium onion diced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 medium carrots sliced
- 2 stalks celery sliced
- 6 cups beef broth preferably low-sodium
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- 4 cups fresh spinach chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes with juices
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice optional
Method
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef stew meat and season with salt and pepper. Brown on all sides for 5-7 minutes.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the sliced carrots and celery. Cook for another 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the beef broth and water, bringing to a gentle boil.
- Sprinkle in the dried thyme and oregano along with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 45 minutes.
- Incorporate the chopped spinach and diced tomatoes, cooking for an additional 5-10 minutes until the spinach wilts.
- Optionally, stir in lemon juice for added brightness.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve warm in bowls.
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