When comfort calls and time is tight, there’s nothing like a steaming bowl of vegetable soup to bring everyone to the table. This classic favorite isn’t just a fallback meal—it’s a flavor-packed lifesaver. We’re not talking about bland, watery broth here. This recipe is loaded with garden-fresh ingredients, simmered just right to deliver rich, layered flavor with every spoonful. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or feeding a hungry crowd, this one’s a keeper.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in about 30 minutes with simple prep
- Wholesome Ingredients – No preservatives, just fresh, real food
- Incredibly Versatile – Customize with your favorite veggies
- Flavorful & Satisfying – A rich base with a perfect seasoning balance
- Family & Crowd Approved – Perfect for gatherings or weekly meal prep
- Comfort in a Bowl – Warm, hearty, and deeply satisfying
Unlike many veggie soups, this version doesn’t skimp on flavor. The secret? A splash of Creole seasoning for a subtle kick and the perfect mix of fresh and canned ingredients that come together fast—no need to sacrifice taste for speed.
Ingredients Needed
To make this vegetable soup, you’ll need everyday pantry staples and a few fresh favorites. Here’s the breakdown:
For the Brothy Base
- 2 cans (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – choose fire-roasted for deeper flavor
- 2 cans (14 oz) chicken broth – low-sodium preferred for seasoning control
- 2 cans (11.5 oz) tomato-vegetable juice cocktail – adds richness and depth
- 2 cups water – adjust for preferred consistency
Fresh Vegetables
- 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 4 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 large potatoes, diced – Yukon gold or red potatoes work best
- 2 cups green beans – fresh and chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups fresh corn kernels – sweet corn adds a great texture
Seasoning
- Salt and black pepper – to taste
- 2 pinches Creole seasoning – or more, for a spicy twist
How to Make Vegetable Soup recipe
This simple recipe makes a surprisingly flavorful and hearty soup. Here’s how to get it just right:
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Wash and chop all your vegetables before you begin. Having everything ready ensures a smooth cooking process.
Step 2: Build the Base
In a large stockpot, combine:
- Diced tomatoes
- Chicken broth
- Tomato-vegetable juice cocktail
- Water
This is your soup’s foundation, so use a quality broth and juice for a richer flavor.
Step 3: Add the Veggies
Toss in the chopped carrots, celery, diced potatoes, green beans, and corn. Stir to combine everything evenly.
Step 4: Season It Up
Add salt, pepper, and Creole seasoning. This step is crucial for flavor—taste as you go to ensure balance.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the pot to a gentle boil over medium heat. Then, reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are fork-tender and the flavors meld together.
Mini-Tip:
Avoid overcooking the green beans—they should still have a slight bite for texture contrast.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese
- Pair with crusty bread or grilled cheese for a satisfying meal
- Add a swirl of sour cream or a dash of hot sauce for a flavor boost
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Freezer-Friendly: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months
- Reheating: Warm on the stove over medium heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally
Don’t miss our Moroccan Soup Recipe (Harira) for more make-ahead favorites.
Helpful Notes
- Add Protein: Toss in shredded chicken, ground turkey, or beans for extra heartiness
- Spice it Up: A dash of cayenne or red pepper flakes can elevate the heat
- Make It Vegetarian: Swap chicken broth with vegetable stock without losing depth
- More Texture? Add pasta or cooked quinoa at the end
- Too Thick? Add more broth or water to reach desired consistency
Check out our Easy Braised Beef Noodle Soup to elevate any bowl of soup with pantry staples.
Classic Vegetable Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Wash and chop all your vegetables. Having everything prepped will make the cooking smoother and faster.
- In a large stockpot, combine diced tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato-vegetable juice cocktail, and water. Stir to combine and heat over medium.
- Add the chopped carrots, celery, diced potatoes, green beans, and corn to the pot. Stir well.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and Creole seasoning to taste. Adjust as needed while simmering.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes, or until all vegetables are fork-tender.
Notes
Conclusion
This vegetable soup is more than just a warm meal—it’s a go-to comfort food you’ll crave on chilly nights or busy weekdays. With its fast prep, deep flavor, and customizable ingredients, it’s the kind of recipe that earns a permanent spot in your rotation.
Tried this recipe? Leave a comment and ⭐ star rating below—we’d love to hear what variations you tried!
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What’s your favorite secret ingredient to boost veggie soup? Tell us in the comments!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the best vegetables for soup?
Great vegetable soups often include carrots, celery, potatoes, green beans, and corn. These provide a variety of textures and flavors. Leafy greens like kale or spinach can also be added near the end.
What are the ingredients for vegetable soup?
A traditional vegetable soup typically includes a broth (vegetable or chicken), tomatoes, and a mix of vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, celery, green beans, and corn. Seasonings like salt, pepper, and herbs round it out.
What to add to vegetable soup to make it tasty?
Flavor enhancers like tomato juice cocktail, Creole seasoning, garlic, or a splash of vinegar can add complexity. Roasting some of the veggies before adding them also brings a deeper flavor.
How to make a vegetable soup taste better?
Balance your flavors with acid (like a squeeze of lemon or splash of vinegar), seasoning, and fresh herbs. Simmering the soup long enough allows flavors to meld beautifully.