Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty Beef & Barley Soup is a comforting, nutrient-packed dish perfect for cold days or when you need a satisfying meal in one bowl. With tender chunks of beef, wholesome barley, and a medley of vegetables, this soup delivers rich flavor and nourishing warmth. It’s easy to prepare and great for leftovers, making it ideal for meal prepping or feeding a hungry crowd.

ingredients

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

beef stew meat (such as chuck roast)olive oilonioncarrotscelerygarlictomato pastediced tomatoesbeef brothbarley (pearl or hulled)dried thymebay leafsalt and pepperfresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

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

Add the beef stew meat and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

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

Stir in garlic and tomato paste, cooking for 1-2 minutes.

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

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

Remove bay leaf before serving.

Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1½ to 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Use ground beef for a quicker version of the soup.

Add mushrooms or potatoes for extra heartiness.

Swap barley with farro or brown rice for a different texture.

Use low-sodium broth and adjust salt to taste for a lighter option.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in individual portions until heated through.
The soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months—thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use leftover roast beef?

Yes, just add it during the last 15 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Barley contains gluten. Substitute with brown rice or quinoa for a gluten-free option.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then combine everything in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Do I have to soak barley before using?

No soaking is needed for pearl barley; hulled barley may benefit from soaking but isn’t required.

How can I make this soup thicker?

Let it simmer uncovered for the last 20-30 minutes or mash some of the veggies to thicken naturally.

Conclusion

Hearty Beef & Barley Soup is a timeless classic that brings comfort and flavor with every spoonful. It’s the perfect make-ahead meal that only gets better with time, ideal for cozy dinners or busy weeknights. Once you try it, you’ll see why this wholesome soup remains a beloved staple in so many kitchens.