Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Prepare the Beef and Vegetables
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
- In the same pot, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced onions and cook over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly caramelized.
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the pot and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until they release their liquid and start to brown. Stir in the minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery, cooking for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened and fragrant.
Build the Soup
- Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the vegetables in the pot and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. This will help thicken the soup.
- Gradually whisk in the beef broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and crushed dried rosemary. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- Return the cooked ground beef to the pot. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for at least 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded. Stir occasionally.
Finish and Serve
- If desired, stir in the heavy cream during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier soup. Season the soup generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad.
Notes
For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can increase the amount of flour or simmer the soup uncovered for longer. This soup reheats well and is great for meal prep; store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
