Hearty Vegetable and Ground Beef Soup

 Ingredients:

– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 cups water
– 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 3 large carrots, peeled and diced
– 2 cups green beans, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
– 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil

 Instructions:

1. **Cook the Ground Beef:**
– In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
– Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
– Remove the beef from the pot and set aside, draining any excess fat if necessary.

2. **Sauté the Vegetables:**
– In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent.
– Add the garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

3. **Add the Broth and Vegetables:**
– Pour in the beef broth and water, stirring to combine.
– Add the diced potatoes, carrots, green beans, corn, peas, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste.
– Stir in the dried thyme, dried basil, paprika, salt, and pepper.

4. **Simmer the Soup:**
– Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
– Return the cooked ground beef to the pot and stir to combine.
– Let the soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

5. **Serve:**
– Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
– Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy your hearty vegetable and ground beef soup! If you have any specific preferences or dietary needs, feel free to let me know, and I can adjust the recipe accordingly.