All-in-one beef soup

All-in-one beef soup is a hearty meal featuring tender beef, vegetables, and pearl barley, simmered in chicken gravy. Ideal for chilly days, this one-pot dish offers rich flavors and comforting warmth.

21 Dec 2025
Cook time 135 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil
1 lb beef
2 carrots
1 stalk celery
1 onion
2 garlic cloves
1 tsp rosemary
2 cups chicken gravy
2 cups water
1/3 cup pearl barley
2 bay leafs
1 lb tomatoes
1.50 sweet potatos

All-in-one beef soup is a hearty and nourishing meal, perfect for chilly days or when you're craving a comforting dish. This recipe combines tender beef, fresh vegetables, and flavorful spices to create a delicious, one-pot wonder. Follow these steps for a satisfying and wholesome meal.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Start by preparing all your ingredients. Cut the beef into bite-sized chunks. Peel and slice the carrots. Slice the celery. Chop the onion. Mince the garlic. Dice the sweet potatoes and chop the tomatoes.

2. Heat the Olive Oil:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it's hot but not smoking.

3. Brown the Beef:
- Add the beef chunks to the pot. Cook them until they are browned on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.

4. Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté them in the remaining oil for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften.

5. Add Garlic and Herbs:
- Add the minced garlic and chopped rosemary to the pot. Stir and cook for another minute until fragrant.

6. Add Liquids and Bay Leaves:
- Pour in the chicken gravy and water. Stir to combine. Add the bay leaves.

7. Add Beef and Pearl Barley:
- Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the pearl barley and stir to incorporate everything.

8. Simmer the Soup:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the beef and barley are tender.

9. Add Tomatoes and Sweet Potatoes:
- After 45 minutes of simmering, add the chopped tomatoes and diced sweet potatoes to the pot. Stir to combine. Continue to simmer for another 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.

10. Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed with salt and pepper. Remove the bay leaves.

11. Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy your hearty, nutritious all-in-one beef soup!

There you have it—a delicious, all-in-one beef soup that's sure to warm your soul. This versatile and hearty dish is perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or simply enjoying a cozy bowl of goodness. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal and enjoy the rich, savory flavors.

All-in-one beef soup FAQ:

What is the recommended cooking time for this soup?

Simmer the soup for about 45 minutes after adding the beef and pearl barley, followed by an additional 20-25 minutes after adding the tomatoes and sweet potatoes.

How can I tell when the beef is tender?

The beef is tender when it can be easily pierced with a fork, typically around 45 minutes into the simmering process, depending on the size of the beef chunks.

Can I store leftovers, and how long will they last?

Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 2-3 months.

What can I substitute for pearl barley?

You can substitute pearl barley with other grains like quinoa or farro; however, the cooking time and texture may vary. Adjust the liquid and simmer time accordingly.

What type of beef works best for this soup?

Chuck roast or stew meat is ideal for this soup, as it becomes tender during the slow cooking process. Avoid lean cuts, as they may become tough.

Tips:

- For a richer flavor, consider browning the beef in small batches to develop a deep caramelization.

- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a couple of tablespoons of tomato paste or reduce the amount of water slightly.

- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or legumes, such as peas, corn, or beans, to customize the soup to your taste.

- For added depth of flavor, you can use beef broth instead of water.

- Garnish with fresh parsley or grated parmesan cheese before serving for an extra touch of elegance.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 570kcal
Protein 40g
Carbohydrates 45g
Fiber 9g
Sugar 11g
Fat 27g

All-in-one beef soup