Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Vegetable Beef Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy nights. Packed with tender beef, hearty vegetables, and slurp-worthy noodles, all simmered in a savory broth, it’s a one-pot meal that satisfies both the stomach and the soul. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly evening or seeking a nourishing dish to feed the family, this soup delivers on flavor and heartiness.

Comforting Vegetable Beef Noodle Soup Recipe

Ingredients

1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups potatoes, diced (Yukon Gold or Russet)
4 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
2 cups kale or spinach, chopped
1/2 tsp salt (to taste)
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tbsp olive oil (if needed for sautéing)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Sausage and Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Brown the Beef: Add the beef cubes to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 8 minutes. This step adds depth of flavor to the soup.
Add Vegetables and Broth: Stir in sliced carrots, chopped celery, green beans, and bay leaves. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld and the beef to become tender.
Cook the Noodles and Peas: Add the egg noodles and frozen peas to the pot. Continue to simmer for an additional 10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender.
Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. For a touch of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. Remove the bay leaves before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño during the sautéing step for added heat.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free sausage to make the soup dairy-free.
Vegetarian Version: Replace the sausage with chickpeas or cubed tofu for a plant-based version.
Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute the rice with cauliflower rice to reduce carbohydrates.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I use frozen kale?

Yes, you can use frozen kale. Thaw and drain it well before adding it to the soup.

How can I make the soup spicier?

Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño during the sautéing step for more heat.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, the soup can be made ahead of time. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, the soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

What type of sausage should I use?

Italian sausage, either mild or spicy, works best for this recipe. You can also use turkey or chicken sausage as a lighter alternative.

Can I use other greens instead of kale?

Yes, spinach or Swiss chard can be used as alternatives to kale. Add them towards the end of cooking to prevent overcooking.

How can I make the soup creamier?

Use heavy cream instead of half-and-half, or add a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese for extra creaminess.

Can I add beans to the soup?

Yes, adding white beans or kidney beans can enhance the soup’s heartiness and nutritional value.

How can I make the soup gluten-free?

Ensure that the sausage and broth are gluten-free. Use a gluten-free flour blend if you need to thicken the soup.

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, brown the sausage and sauté the onion and garlic in a skillet, then transfer them to a slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients (except noodles) and cook on low for 6–8 hours. About 30 minutes before serving, add the noodles and cook until tender.

Conclusion

This Vegetable Beef Noodle Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and nourishing ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Feel free to customize the recipe with your favorite vegetables or seasonings to make it your own. Enjoy a bowl of this delicious soup and savor the warmth and satisfaction it brings.