Ground Beef Vegetable Soup with Gnocchi: A Hearty and Comforting Meal

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can match the warmth and heartiness of a homemade soup. Ground Beef Vegetable Soup with Gnocchi is a satisfying meal loaded with tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and pillowy soft gnocchi. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner, an easy meal prep option, or even a make-ahead meal for busy days. Not only is it delicious and filling, but it is also incredibly simple to make with pantry-friendly ingredients.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of preparing this hearty soup. Plus, we’ll answer some frequently asked questions to ensure your soup turns out perfect every time.

Ingredients for Ground Beef Vegetable Soup with Gnocchi

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 medium carrot, diced

• 1 celery stalk, chopped

• 1 small zucchini, diced (optional)

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce

• 4 cups beef broth (or chicken broth for a lighter flavor)

• 1 cup water

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil

• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)

• 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi

• 1 cup fresh spinach or kale, chopped

• 1/2 cup frozen peas or corn (optional)

• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Ground Beef

In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

Add the diced onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.

3. Add Vegetables and Broth

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and water. Add zucchini, red bell pepper, Italian seasoning, basil, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer.

4. Simmer the Soup

Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

5. Cook the Gnocchi

Add the gnocchi to the soup and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface, indicating they are done.

6. Finish with Greens

Stir in the chopped spinach or kale, along with the frozen peas or corn (if using). Cook for another 2 minutes until the greens wilt and the peas are tender.

7. Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve warm with crusty bread for an extra comforting meal.

FAQs About Ground Beef Vegetable Soup with Gnocchi

1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that beef adds a richer flavor, but turkey and chicken are still delicious alternatives.

2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier. However, if making ahead, consider adding the gnocchi fresh when reheating, as it can become mushy when stored in liquid.

3. How can I make this soup gluten-free?

To make this soup gluten-free, simply use gluten-free gnocchi or swap it out for diced potatoes or another gluten-free pasta alternative.

4. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, but with some precautions. If you plan to freeze the soup, do so before adding the gnocchi, as they tend to get mushy after freezing. Freeze the soup base in an airtight container for up to 3 months and add fresh gnocchi when reheating.

5. What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, garlic bread, a side salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich.

6. Can I use homemade gnocchi?

Definitely! If you have homemade gnocchi, feel free to use it. Just be mindful that fresh gnocchi may cook faster than store-bought varieties.

7. How do I thicken or thin out the soup?

If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer a little longer to reduce the broth, or add a slurry of cornstarch and water. To thin it out, simply add more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

Ground Beef Vegetable Soup with Gnocchi is a fantastic dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with nutrients. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this soup is guaranteed to be a hit. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of soup whenever you need it. Try it today and make it a staple in your home-cooked meals!