Name: Hearty Homemade Vegetable Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 yellow onion, chopped; 3 carrots, peeled and chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 6 garlic cloves, minced; 1 pound potatoes, diced (450g); 2 cups fresh or frozen green beans, chopped (260g); 1½ cups fresh or frozen corn (214g); 1½ cups frozen peas (200g); ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley; 1 can diced tomatoes (28-ounce/794g); 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth (1440ml); ¾ teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 2 bay leaves; 1 to 2 teaspoons salt

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 2 reviews

If you are looking for a warm, comforting, and naturally wholesome dish to brighten up a chilly evening, this Hearty Homemade Vegetable Soup Recipe is your new best friend. Packed with vibrant fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a rich broth that simmers to perfection, this soup brings all the flavors you crave in a bowl that feels like a big hug. It’s incredibly easy to make, endlessly versatile, and far superior to anything you’ll find in a can. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become your go-to comfort food for every season!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up image shows finely chopped onions on a wooden board with two whole carrots visible in the background on a white marbled surface. Next to it, a white cooking pot contains sautéed onions that have turned golden brown, being stirred with a wooden spoon held by a woman's hand. The textures highlight the soft, cooked onions with some browning on the pot surface, creating a warm and rustic feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this soup lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, color, and texture, making the dish truly stand out without any fuss. From tender potatoes to fresh herbs and sweet corn, you’ll find that these basics come together beautifully.

3 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a smooth, fruity base that helps caramelize the vegetables perfectly.
1 yellow onion, chopped: Provides sweetness and depth as it slowly browns.
3 carrots, peeled and chopped: Give gentle sweetness and vibrant orange color to the broth.
2 celery stalks, chopped: Bring a subtle freshness and mild crunch.
6 garlic cloves, minced: Packs a punch of aromatic flavor that blossoms as it cooks.
1 can diced tomatoes (28-ounce/794g): Lends natural acidity and rich tomato flavor to brighten the soup.
¾ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds gentle heat and complexity.
1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Gives an earthy, savory herbal note that complements the vegetables.
6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth (1440ml): The liquid heart of the soup that melds every ingredient into a harmonious whole.
1 pound potatoes, diced (450g): Soaks up the flavors while adding hearty, creamy texture.
2 cups chopped fresh or frozen green beans (260g): Offer slight crunch and a fresh, green bite.
1½ cups fresh or frozen corn (214g): Sweetness that bursts with every spoonful.
2 bay leaves: Infuse subtle complexity and fragrance during simmering.
1 to 2 teaspoons salt: Enhances all the natural flavors beautifully—adjust to taste.
1½ cups frozen peas (200g): Add bright pops of color and sweet freshness near the end.
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley: Stirred in at the last minute for a lively, herbaceous finish.

How to Make Hearty Homemade Vegetable Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped yellow onion and cook, stirring frequently, until the onions start to brown and caramelize—about 10 to 15 minutes. This slow browning is essential because it unlocks the natural sweetness of the onions, creating a flavor base that makes the soup truly special. Next, stir in the carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Let them cook together for about 5 minutes, reducing the heat if anything looks like it might stick. Those caramelized bits at the bottom of the pot? They’re pure gold for flavor.

Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Herbs

Pour in the diced tomatoes along with the thyme and black pepper. Allow this mixture to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice much of the liquid evaporates, intensifying the flavors and thickening the base of your soup. This step is key in building depth before adding the broth.

Step 3: Incorporate Broth and Vegetables

Next, add the vegetable broth, scraping the bottom of the pot with your spoon to loosen any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Stir in the diced potatoes, green beans, corn, bay leaves, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Bring everything to a boil, which infuses warmth into the broth and awakens the vegetables.

Step 4: Simmer and Season

Reduce the heat to medium-low and partially cover the pot. Let your soup simmer gently for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the potatoes and other vegetables become tender but not mushy. Be sure to taste and adjust the salt as needed—this simple seasoning will elevate all the flavors. Then, stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 10 minutes, allowing them to heat through without losing their vibrant green color.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Parsley

Just before serving, stir in the freshly chopped parsley. This final touch adds a burst of brightness and fresh herbal aroma that makes your Hearty Homemade Vegetable Soup Recipe irresistible.

How to Serve Hearty Homemade Vegetable Soup Recipe

A close-up view of a bowl filled with colorful vegetable soup showing one layer of chunky vegetables including green beans, peas, corn, carrots, potatoes, and diced tomatoes in a clear broth. The bowl is light-colored with speckled texture, placed on a white marbled surface next to a silver spoon and a glass with a light yellow drink. Behind the bowl, part of a large purple pot filled with more soup is visible. The soup's vibrant mix of orange, green, yellow, and red vegetables contrasts with the neutral bowl and white marbled background. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your soup even more, consider topping it with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of tangy sour cream. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a few crunchy croutons also add fantastic texture and flavor contrast. Garnishes transform a simple bowl into a gourmet experience that’s sure to wow friends and family alike.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, such as a baguette or rustic sourdough, perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of the broth. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is also an ideal companion, offering a crisp and refreshing balance to the warm, rich soup.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy dinner party or lunch gathering, serve the soup in individual bread bowls for a playful, inviting presentation. Alternatively, ladle it into colorful ceramic bowls garnished with fresh herbs and a swirl of cream to impress your guests with minimal effort. Layer the soup with a sprinkle of toasted nuts or seeds for an unexpected crunchy twist that gives each spoonful an exciting texture surprise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your soup, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. The flavors develop even more after a day or two, so leftovers are definitely something to look forward to.

Freezing

This Hearty Homemade Vegetable Soup Recipe freezes beautifully. To freeze, cool the soup completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. You can keep it frozen for up to 3 months. When you want a quick meal, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator or gently reheat from frozen on the stove or in the microwave.

Reheating

Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If it seems too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up. Microwave reheating works well too; just cover and heat in short intervals, stirring in between to heat evenly. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasonings, as sometimes salt needs a little boost after storing.

FAQs

Can I use different vegetables in this soup?

Absolutely! One of the best things about the Hearty Homemade Vegetable Soup Recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach depending on what you have on hand or what’s fresh at the market. Just adjust cooking times for harder or softer veggies accordingly.

Is it possible to make this soup vegan and gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan as it uses vegetable broth and no animal products. It’s also gluten-free as long as you choose a certified gluten-free vegetable broth and avoid adding any pasta or grains that contain gluten. It’s a wholesome option for those with dietary restrictions.

How can I add protein to the soup?

To boost protein, stir in a drained can of white beans, chickpeas, or cooked lentils during the last 10 minutes of cooking. You can also serve the soup alongside a scoop of cooked quinoa or your favorite grain, making it even heartier and more filling.

What’s the best way to store this soup if I want to keep it extra fresh?

Keep your soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain maximum freshness. Make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing and refrigerating. Consume within 4 days for optimal taste and quality.

Can I make this soup spicy?

Definitely! Adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper while sauteing the onions and carrots will give your soup a lively kick. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your heat preference. It adds a wonderful depth without overpowering the fresh vegetable flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Hearty Homemade Vegetable Soup Recipe is more than just a soup; it’s a celebration of fresh vegetables and comforting flavors that come together effortlessly in one pot. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a nourishing bowl for yourself, this soup is an absolute winner. Give it a try, and I’m sure it will become a cherished staple in your kitchen as it has in mine.