Beef Barley Soup – Hearty, Nutritious, and Comforting

Beef Barley Soup is a classic, hearty dish that warms the soul and satisfies the appetite. Tender chunks of lean beef, wholesome barley, and a medley of vegetables simmer in a rich, savory broth for a filling, balanced meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or cozy evenings, this soup delivers comfort and nutrition in every bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty & Filling: Protein-rich beef and fiber-packed barley keep you satisfied.
Balanced & Nutritious: Loaded with vegetables for vitamins and minerals.
Simple Ingredients: Easy pantry staples come together effortlessly.
Freezable & Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep and leftovers.

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed
• 6 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef
In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add beef cubes and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.

3. Combine Ingredients
Return the beef to the pot. Stir in barley, beef broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, parsley, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.

4. Simmer
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45–50 minutes, or until beef is tender and barley is cooked through. Remove bay leaf.

5. Season & Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm.

Nutritional Information

Calories: 280
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 8g
Protein: 25g
Fiber: 6g

Tips for Success

• Use Lean Beef: Keeps the soup hearty without excess fat.
• Pearl Barley: Provides a nutty flavor and chewy texture; quick-cooking barley can reduce simmer time.
• Add More Veggies: Spinach, peas, or green beans work well for extra nutrition.
• Make Ahead: Soup tastes even better the next day as flavors meld. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of tender beef, hearty barley, and flavorful vegetables creates a balanced, filling soup that’s perfect for any season. It’s comforting, nutritious, and easy to prepare—ideal for both busy nights and leisurely weekend meals.

Beef Barley Soup is a wholesome, satisfying meal that delivers classic comfort in every bite. With its rich broth, tender beef, and nutrient-packed vegetables, it’s an easy, hearty option that keeps the whole family happy. Perfect for batch cooking, this soup is a timeless addition to your weeknight rotation.