Gluten-Free High-Protein Beef Bean Soup

Hearty Beef & Bean Soup is the ideal recipe for those chilly nights when all you want is a warm, comforting bowl of goodness. This high-protein delight, packed with tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and nutrient-rich beans, offers a nutritious meal that’s budget-friendly and gluten-free. Not only is it simple to prepare with a step-by-step approach, but it also resonates with a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of family gatherings and cozy evenings at home. Get ready to enjoy a dish that the whole family will adore!

Ingredients

To craft your Hearty Beef & Bean Soup, you’ll need a selection of fresh and flavorful ingredients:

• 1.5 lb lean top sirloin, cubed (3/4 inch): Juicy and robust, this lean beef is perfect for creating a rich flavor base.
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed: These beans add creaminess and a pop of color, packed with protein and fiber.
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed: Slightly nutty, these beans contribute to a hearty texture and smooth taste.
• 1 medium onion, diced: Aromatic and sweet, onions create an irresistible fragrance as they cook.
• 2 medium carrots, diced: These juicy veggies offer a natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• 3 celery stalks, diced: Crisp and refreshing, celery adds a delightful crunch and subtle flavor.
• 1.5 tbsp Land seasoning (Herb & Garlic): This blend infuses the soup with an aromatic, herby essence that elevates the dish.
• 1 tsp ground fennel: With its licorice undertone, fennel adds depth to the soup’s flavor profile.
• 1/2 tsp ground sage: Earthy and warm, sage complements the beef beautifully.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing flavors and bringing the dish together.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Juicy and tangy, these tomatoes lend acidity and richness to the soup.
• 2 tbsp tomato paste: Thick and rich, this ingredient deepens the flavor and adds a velvety texture.
• 2 tbsp cornstarch + 3 tbsp water: This mixture acts as a thickening agent, ensuring a satisfying consistency.
• 5 cups beef broth (low sodium or no salt added): The soul of the soup, providing savory depth and nourishing qualities.
• 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables: These colorful veggies add convenience and additional nutrients without the fuss.
• Fresh parsley for garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens up the dish visually and adds a hint of freshness.
• 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil: These oils enhance the richness and flavor of the beef as it cooks.

Step-by-Step Directions

The Easy Way – The Dump and Go Method

This is the no-fuss version – I got you, fam! If you can chop vegetables and open cans, you can make this soup. Here’s how:

1. In a large pot, add the cubed beef, diced onions, carrots, celery, both cans of beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth.
2. Stir in the Land seasoning, ground fennel, and ground sage. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 30-45 minutes, allowing the beef to become tender and the vegetables to soften.
4. In the final 5-10 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, ensuring they heat through.
5. Taste the soup, adjust the salt and pepper as needed, and serve hot.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35-45 minutes
Total time: 45-55 minutes

Deep Flavor Way (Optional Sauté Method)

For a richer flavor, take an extra 10 minutes with this method:

1. In a large pot, heat a drizzle of oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then sear them until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
2. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the Land seasoning, stirring until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the ground fennel and sage, cooking for an additional 30 seconds.
4. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 30-60 seconds to enhance the flavor.
5. Return the seared beef to the pot, then add diced tomatoes, both cans of beans, and beef broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and let it simmer for 30-45 minutes.
6. Stir in frozen mixed vegetables during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking. Taste, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45-55 minutes
Total time: 1 hour to 1 hour 10 minutes

Oven Method (Hands-Off)

For a hands-off approach that yields fantastic flavor, follow these steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the ingredients using either the dump method or sauté method, combining all ingredients (except frozen vegetables) in a Dutch oven or oven-safe pot.
2. Bring to a boil on the stovetop, then cover with a lid and transfer to the oven.
3. Cook for 45-60 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. After cooking, stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, cover, and let sit for 5-10 minutes until heated through.
4. Taste, adjust seasoning, and enjoy!

Prep time: 10-15 minutes
Cook time: 50 minutes to 1 hour 10 minutes
Total time: 1 hour to 1 hour 25 minutes

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, consider adding a dash of your favorite hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
• If you like a thicker soup, simply increase the cornstarch and water mixture until you reach your desired consistency.
• Make it even heartier by adding more beans or extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This soup is fantastic on its own but pairs beautifully with:

• Crusty sourdough bread for dipping.
• A simple green salad to brighten your meal.
• Avocado slices or guacamole for added creaminess.

It’s the perfect meal for family gatherings, rainy days, or any cozy evening spent with loved ones.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (approximately 1.5 cups):

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 36g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 10g

This soup offers a well-balanced meal with wholesome proteins, fibers, and essential nutrients, making it a smart choice for anyone looking to eat healthily without breaking the bank.

Storing Tips & Variations

• Storing: Cool the soup completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
• Reheating: Simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Variations: Swap out the lean beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Experiment with different beans, or add spinach or kale for extra greens.

Conclusion

Give the Hearty Beef & Bean Soup a try, and you won’t be disappointed! It’s a family-friendly dish that embraces comfort, warmth, and satisfaction, all while being incredibly easy to prepare. Take some time to enjoy this wholesome recipe, and don’t forget to share your experience with others!

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of meat?
   Yes! Feel free to substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based protein if you prefer a vegetarian option.

2. Is this soup gluten-free?
   Absolutely! All the ingredients used are gluten-free, making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

3. Can I make this soup in an Instant Pot?
   Yes! Simply follow the sauté method on the sauté setting, then switch to pressure cook for about 20 minutes.

4. What if I don’t have Land seasoning?
   You can create your own blend using dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, and garlic powder.

5. How can I make it spicier?
   You can add jalapeños, hot sauce, or crushed red pepper flakes to bring up the heat level to your liking.

Hearty Beef & Bean Soup

A warm and comforting soup filled with tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and nutrient-rich beans, perfect for chilly nights.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Course Main Course, Soup

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1.5 lb lean top sirloin, cubed Juicy and robust, this lean beef is perfect for creating a rich flavor base.
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed Packed with protein and fiber.
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed Contributes to a hearty texture and smooth taste.
• 1 medium onion, diced Creates an irresistible fragrance as they cook.
• 2 medium carrots, diced Offers a natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• 3 stalks celery, diced Adds a delightful crunch and subtle flavor.
• 5 cups beef broth (low sodium or no salt added) Provides savory depth.
• 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables Adds convenience and additional nutrients.
• 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil Enhances richness and flavor.

Seasonings

• 1.5 tbsp Land seasoning (Herb & Garlic) Infuses the soup with an aromatic, herby essence.
• 1 tsp ground fennel Adds depth to the soup's flavor profile.
• 1/2 tsp ground sage Complements the beef beautifully.

Base Ingredients

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes Lends acidity and richness to the soup.
• 2 tbsp tomato paste Deepens the flavor and adds velvety texture.
• 2 tbsp cornstarch Acts as a thickening agent.
• 3 tbsp water Used with cornstarch for thickening.

Garnish

• Fresh parsley for garnish Brightens up the dish visually.

Instructions

 

Dump and Go Method

• In a large pot, add the cubed beef, diced onions, carrots, celery, both cans of beans, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth.
• Stir in the Land seasoning, ground fennel, and ground sage. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
• Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 30-45 minutes, allowing the beef to become tender and the vegetables to soften.
• In the final 5-10 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, ensuring they heat through.
• Taste the soup, adjust the salt and pepper as needed, and serve hot.

Deep Flavor Way (Optional Sauté Method)

• In a large pot, heat a drizzle of oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then sear them until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
• Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
• Stir in the Land seasoning, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the ground fennel and sage, cooking for an additional 30 seconds.
• Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 30-60 seconds to enhance the flavor.
• Return the seared beef to the pot, then add diced tomatoes, both cans of beans, and beef broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and let it simmer for 30-45 minutes.
• Stir in frozen mixed vegetables during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking. Taste, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.

Oven Method (Hands-Off)

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the ingredients using either the dump method or sauté method, combining all ingredients (except frozen vegetables) in a Dutch oven or oven-safe pot.
• Bring to a boil on the stovetop, then cover with a lid and transfer to the oven.
• Cook for 45-60 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. After cooking, stir in the frozen mixed vegetables, cover, and let sit for 5-10 minutes until heated through.
• Taste, adjust seasoning, and enjoy!

Notes

For added spice, include hot sauce or red pepper flakes. Adjust cornstarch for desired thickness. Swap lean beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Keyword Bean Soup, Beef Soup, Comfort Food, Healthy Recipe, Hearty Soup