Description
This Beef and Lentil Soup is a hearty, protein-packed meal made with tender beef, lentils, and flavorful veggies. It's the perfect one-pot recipe for a comforting, wholesome dinner. This nutritious soup is packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals and can be customized with different greens, spices, or broth options. Ideal for meal prep, it also tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or stew meat, diced)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup kale or spinach, chopped (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Instructions:
- Brown the Beef – In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef (or stew meat) until browned. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Sauté the Vegetables – Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add Lentils and Seasonings – Stir in the rinsed lentils, undrained diced tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, cumin, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the Soup – Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the flavors are well-blended.
- Add Greens (Optional) – If using kale or spinach, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking to allow the greens to wilt while retaining their nutrients.
- Serve – Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
- You can use chicken or vegetable broth as alternatives to beef broth.
- If you prefer a spicier soup, add red pepper flakes or cayenne.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
