Nothing beats a warm, hearty bowl of beef minestrone soup on a chilly day. This classic Italian-inspired soup is loaded with tender beef, fresh vegetables, savory herbs, beans, and pasta, making it a nutrient-rich and comforting meal. While traditional minestrone is a vegetable-based dish, adding beef enhances the flavor, texture, and protein content, making it even more satisfying.
In this guide, you’ll discover a step-by-step beef minestrone soup recipe, including stovetop, Instant Pot, and slow cooker methods. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or craving a quick and nutritious dinner, this recipe will become a favorite in your home.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Rich & Hearty – A perfect combination of beef, beans, and pasta in a flavorful broth.
✔ Nutritious – Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins from fresh ingredients.
✔ Easy to Make – Whether you cook it on the stovetop, slow cooker, or Instant Pot, it’s simple and delicious.
✔ Great for Meal Prep – Stores well and tastes even better the next day!
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What is Beef Minestrone Soup?
Minestrone soup is a traditional Italian dish known for its vibrant mix of vegetables, beans, tomatoes, and pasta. It has been enjoyed for centuries as a staple peasant meal because of its versatility and affordability.
Why Add Beef to Minestrone?
While classic minestrone is vegetarian, adding beef brings an extra layer of flavor and heartiness. The slow-cooked beef makes the broth richer, adds a delicious umami taste, and increases the protein content, making the soup even more filling.
Traditional vs. Beef Minestrone
| Feature | Traditional Minestrone | Beef Minestrone |
|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Beans & Pasta | Beef + Beans |
| Flavor | Light, Herbaceous | Deep, Savory, Umami |
| Texture | Chunky, Light Broth | Thick, Meaty, Rich |
Now that you know why beef is a fantastic addition to minestrone, let’s look at the ingredients you’ll need for this flavorful, protein-packed dish.
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Ingredients for Beef Minestrone Soup Recipe
A great minestrone soup recipe with beef starts with fresh ingredients that create a rich, hearty, and flavorful broth. Here’s everything you need to make the best beef minestrone soup at home.
Best Beef Cuts for Minestrone Soup
The key to a flavorful minestrone with beef is choosing the right cut of meat. Since this soup simmers for a while, you want beef that becomes tender and juicy over time.
✅ Chuck Roast – Best for slow cooking, becomes fork-tender.
✅ Stew Meat – Pre-cut and convenient, but ensure it’s a marbled cut for flavor.
✅ Ground Beef – A quicker, budget-friendly option.
✅ Short Ribs – For extra-rich flavor and tender meat.
Pro Tip: If using tougher cuts like chuck roast, cook it low and slow for maximum tenderness.
Essential Vegetables & Beans
Minestrone is a vegetable-packed soup, and these fresh ingredients bring out its signature Italian taste.
Carrots – Adds natural sweetness and color.
Zucchini – Softens into the broth, adding depth.
Celery – Provides a mild, herby flavor.
Onion & Garlic – The base for a rich broth.
Canned Diced Tomatoes – Adds tanginess and body.
Kidney Beans or Cannellini Beans – A classic in minestrone, offering protein and fiber.
Spinach or Kale – Adds a pop of color and nutrients.
Pro Tip: You can swap beans for chickpeas or lentils for a unique twist!
Herbs & Seasonings for Authentic Flavor
The secret to authentic minestrone soup with meat is Italian herbs that enhance the taste.
Salt & Black Pepper – Basic but essential.
Olive Oil – For sautéing and flavor depth.
Oregano & Basil – Adds the classic Italian touch.
Thyme & Bay Leaf – Gives depth and warmth to the broth.
Parmesan Rind (Optional) – Melts into the soup for extra umami.
Pro Tip: Remove the bay leaf before serving to avoid bitterness.
Other Key Ingredients
Beef Broth – Enhances the meaty, umami flavor.
Small Pasta (Ditalini or Elbow Macaroni) – Adds texture.
Red Wine (Optional) – Deepens the flavor of the broth.
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Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Beef Minestrone Soup
1. Preparing the Ingredients
✔ Chop onions, carrots, celery, and zucchini into small cubes.
✔ Mince garlic and drain the canned beans.
✔ Cut beef into bite-sized pieces (if using a whole cut like chuck roast).
2. Cooking on the Stovetop
1️⃣ Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot.
- Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes.
2️⃣ Brown the Beef:
- Add beef cubes and cook until browned on all sides.
- Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and thyme.
3️⃣ Simmer the Soup:
- Pour in beef broth, diced tomatoes, and bay leaf.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes.
4️⃣ Add Beans & Pasta:
- Stir in beans and pasta, cooking until pasta is tender.
5️⃣ Final Touches:
- Add zucchini and spinach in the last 5 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning and serve hot!
Instant Pot Minestrone Soup with Beef
For a quicker version, use an Instant Pot:
✔ Sauté mode: Brown beef and aromatics.
✔ Pressure Cook: Add broth, tomatoes, and seasonings, then cook on HIGH for 20 minutes.
✔ Quick Release: Stir in pasta and beans, then cook for another 5 minutes.
Tips for the Best Minestrone Soup with Beef
Making a perfectly rich and hearty minestrone soup with meat requires a few expert tips. Here’s how to make sure your soup is flavorful, well-balanced, and satisfying every time!
1. How to Make It Thick & Flavorful
If you love a thicker, heartier minestrone, try these techniques:
✅ Simmer Longer – The longer the soup cooks, the more concentrated the flavors become.
✅ Mash Some Beans – Before adding them to the pot, mash a small portion to create a natural thickener.
✅ Use Tomato Paste – A tablespoon of tomato paste deepens the broth’s flavor and thickens the texture.
✅ Let Pasta Soak Up Broth – If you let the soup sit for 10-15 minutes before serving, the pasta absorbs more liquid, making the soup richer.
2. Substitutions & Variations
Want to customize your minestrone soup with beef? Here are some easy swaps and variations:
✅ Make It Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free pasta or swap it for quinoa.
✅ Use Ground Beef – A quicker and more budget-friendly alternative to stew meat.
✅ Swap Beans – Instead of kidney or cannellini beans, try chickpeas or lentils.
✅ Make It Spicy – Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
✅ Vegetarian Option – Skip the beef and add extra beans or tofu for plant-based protein.
Pro Tip: If using ground beef, brown it separately before adding it to the soup to avoid excess grease.
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What to Serve with Beef Minestrone Soup?
This hearty Italian soup is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right sides makes it even better.
Best Side Dishes for Minestrone Soup with Beef
Crusty Italian Bread – Perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
Parmesan Cheese – A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan enhances the soup’s richness.
Fresh Green Salad – A light, refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
Red Wine – A glass of Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully with the beefy flavors.
Pro Tip: Serve the soup with garlic breadsticks for an extra indulgent meal.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
One of the best things about minestrone soup with beef is that it tastes even better the next day! Here’s how to store and reheat it properly.
1. How to Store Leftovers
✔ In the Refrigerator – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
✔ In the Freezer – Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
Pro Tip: If freezing, cook the soup without pasta and add it fresh when reheating to avoid soggy noodles.
2. How to Reheat Without Losing Flavor
✔ On the Stovetop – Heat on medium-low until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
✔ In the Microwave – Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to avoid uneven heating.
✔ For Frozen Soup – Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Health Benefits of Beef Minestrone Soup
A bowl of beef minestrone soup isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients that support overall health. From protein-rich beef to fiber-filled beans and vegetables, this dish is both nourishing and satisfying.
1. High in Protein for Muscle Health
Adding beef to minestrone increases its protein content, which is essential for:
✔ Muscle growth and repair
✔ Boosting metabolism
✔ Keeping you full for longer
Did You Know? A single serving of beef minestrone soup provides 15-20 grams of protein, making it a great meal option for active individuals.
2. Packed with Vitamins & Minerals
The fresh vegetables and beans in this soup provide essential vitamins and minerals:
Carrots & Tomatoes → High in Vitamin A for healthy vision and skin.
Spinach & Zucchini → Loaded with iron and folate to support energy production.
Beans → Excellent source of fiber, magnesium, and potassium for heart health.
Pro Tip: For an extra nutrient boost, add kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach!
3. Supports Digestive Health
This soup is rich in fiber, thanks to its vegetables, beans, and whole grains. Fiber helps with:
✔ Improving digestion
✔ Regulating blood sugar levels
✔ Keeping you full and satisfied
Fun Fact: The combination of soluble fiber (beans) and insoluble fiber (vegetables) makes minestrone soup an excellent gut-friendly meal.
4. A Heart-Healthy Meal
This Italian-inspired soup contains ingredients that promote cardiovascular health:
Olive oil → Provides healthy fats that reduce inflammation.
Tomatoes & Garlic → Contain antioxidants that support heart function.
Beans & Whole Grains → Help lower cholesterol and stabilize blood pressure.
Want a heart-healthier version? Use lean beef cuts and low-sodium broth to keep it light yet nutritious.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make minestrone soup with beef ahead of time?
Absolutely! Minestrone soup with meat tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
2. What type of beef works best in minestrone?
For the best results, use chuck roast, stew meat, or short ribs for tender, slow-cooked beef. If you’re short on time, ground beef is a quick alternative.
3. Can I make this soup without pasta?
Yes! If you want a low-carb or gluten-free version, simply skip the pasta or replace it with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or spiralized zucchini noodles.
4. How do I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a meatless minestrone, leave out the beef and add extra beans or plant-based protein like tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a rich, umami taste.
5. What’s the best way to thicken beef minestrone soup?
For a thicker consistency, try:
✔ Mashing some of the beans before adding them to the soup.
✔ Using tomato paste for a richer broth.
✔ Letting the soup simmer longer to naturally reduce and thicken.
6. Can I make this in an Instant Pot or slow cooker?
Yes! Both methods work great:
- Instant Pot: Pressure cook for 20 minutes, then add pasta and beans.
- Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours for maximum flavor.
Conclusion
There you have it—a rich, flavorful, and hearty Beef Minestrone Soup Recipe that’s perfect for any occasion! With tender beef, fresh vegetables, beans, and pasta, this dish is a nutrient-packed comfort meal that will warm your soul.
Whether you cook it on the stovetop, Instant Pot, or slow cooker, this soup is easy to make, satisfying, and full of Italian-inspired goodness. Try this recipe today and enjoy a wholesome, protein-rich meal with your loved ones!
👉 What’s your favorite way to enjoy minestrone soup? Let us know in the comments! 🍲
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Beef Minestrone Soup Recipe
Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Chopping board
- Knife
Ingredients
Beef & Vegetables:
- 1/2 lb (225g) ground beef (or cubed beef)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
Broth & Flavoring:
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Pasta & Beans:
- 1/2 cup small pasta
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
Garnish:
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Sauté the Beef & Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Stir in onion and garlic, cooking for 2 minutes until fragrant.
Add Vegetables & Seasonings
- Stir in carrots, celery, and zucchini. Cook for 3–5 minutes.
- Add diced tomatoes, beef broth, water, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Simmer the Soup
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add Pasta & Beans
- Stir in pasta and beans, cooking for another 10–12 minutes or until pasta is tender.
Serve & Garnish
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
Video
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta or omit it.
- You can swap ground beef for shredded rotisserie chicken or turkey.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.