Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty Beef and Barley Soup is a comforting, satisfying dish packed with tender beef, nutty barley, and a medley of vegetables simmered in a savory broth. Perfect for chilly days, this one-pot meal is wholesome, nourishing, and full of deep, rich flavors that develop beautifully as it cooks. It’s a classic, timeless recipe that’s ideal for family dinners or meal prepping.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

beef stew meat (such as chuck)olive oilyellow onioncarrotscelerygarlicdiced tomatoesbeef brothpearl barleybay leafthymeparsleyblack peppersalt

directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.

Add the beef stew meat and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

In the same pot, add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

Return the beef to the pot along with diced tomatoes, beef broth, pearl barley, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1½ to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the barley is fully cooked.

Remove the bay leaf, adjust seasoning to taste, and stir in fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6-8 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 1½ to 2 hoursTotal time: approximately 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Use ground beef for a quicker version of the soup.

Add mushrooms for an earthy depth of flavor.

Try using quick-cooking barley to reduce the simmer time.

Stir in spinach or kale at the end for extra greens.

Swap beef for leftover roast or shredded chicken for a different take.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.This soup also freezes well for up to 3 months.Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the beef first, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Do I need to soak the barley beforehand?

No, pearl barley doesn’t need soaking—just rinse it before adding.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, omit the beef and use vegetable broth. Add more veggies like mushrooms and potatoes for heartiness.

What cut of beef is best?

Chuck roast is ideal because it becomes tender and flavorful with slow cooking.

Can I use quick barley?

Yes, just reduce the cooking time according to package instructions.

Does barley thicken the soup?

Yes, barley naturally releases starches that help create a thicker, richer broth.

Can I make it ahead?

Absolutely, the flavor improves as it sits, making it great for next-day meals.

What can I serve with it?

Crusty bread, a green salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich make excellent sides.

Is it gluten-free?

No, barley contains gluten. Substitute with rice or quinoa for a gluten-free option.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, it scales well for larger batches—perfect for freezing or feeding a crowd.

Conclusion

Hearty Beef and Barley Soup is the ultimate comfort food, blending tender beef, chewy barley, and flavorful vegetables into a soul-warming bowl. Whether you’re looking to meal prep or serve a cozy dinner, this classic soup is a nourishing and delicious choice you’ll want to make again and again.