Ben Kenwood June 3, 2026

This post may contain affiliate links, please see our Disclosure for details.

Beef Barley Soup recipe

Name: Beef Barley Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon oil; 1 lb beef (cut into cubes); 1 small onion (finely diced); 3-4 large carrots (peeled and chopped); 2 ribs celery (chopped); 2 teaspoons minced garlic; 1½ teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 5 cups low sodium beef broth; ¾ cup pearl or pot barley (rinsed); 3 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 bay leaves; Fresh parsley

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Beef Barley Soup to warm you up on a chilly evening. This hearty dish, brimming with tender beef, nutritious barley, and an array of vegetables, creates a delightful experience that comforts the soul. Perfect for family gatherings or solo cozy nights, it’s the kind of recipe that once tasted, will bring you back for more. If you’re considering a meal that’s both satisfying and soul-soothing, this Beef Barley Soup is a fantastic choice, especially alongside a side of fresh bread or salad.

Reasons to Love This Beef Barley Soup Recipe

This Beef Barley Soup recipe is special for several reasons:

It’s nourishing and hearty, making it ideal for those colder months.
The barley adds a unique texture that complements the tender beef beautifully.
Packed with vegetables, it’s not only delicious but also offers a nutritious boost.
The recipe is easy to follow, perfect for both seasoned cooks and beginners alike.

There’s something so fulfilling about savoring a bowl packed with flavor, and this recipe delivers just that!

Gather These Ingredients

To create a delightful Beef Barley Soup, you will need a selection of ingredients that come together to meld delicious flavors. Below is the list of what you’ll require:

1 tablespoon oil
1 lb beef (cut into cubes)
1 small onion (finely diced)
3-4 large carrots (peeled and chopped)
2 ribs celery (chopped)
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1½ teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon black pepper
5 cups low sodium beef broth
¾ cup pearl or pot barley (rinsed)
3 tablespoons tomato paste
2 bay leaves
Fresh parsley

Barley is a fantastic and nutritious grain that enhances the dish’s heartiness, making it an excellent alternative to traditional options.

Bringing It Together

Here’s how to make this wonderful Beef Barley Soup:

In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on each side for approximately 2 minutes. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook and stir for about 3–4 minutes, until the onion turns translucent.
Add the garlic, salt, thyme, and pepper. Stir and cook for an additional minute, allowing the aromas to fill your kitchen.
Now, it’s time to stir in the beef broth, rinsed barley, tomato paste, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Lower the heat to medium-low and return the browned beef to the pot. Cover and let it simmer for 35–45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the barley and carrots are tender.
Once served, sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired for a dash of color and flavor.

Prep time is about 15 minutes, cook time is roughly 45 minutes, bringing your total time to about 1 hour. This recipe yields approximately 6 servings and has an estimated calorie count of about 340 kcal per serving.

Prepare in Advance

Chilly weeks might leave you craving some hearty soup, and preparing Beef Barley Soup ahead of time can be a game-changer. You can chop the vegetables and beef the day prior and store them in the refrigerator. Simply pull them out the next day to start cooking! Additionally, the soup itself can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld even more. Just be sure to cool the soup completely before storing it in an airtight container.

How to Store Leftovers

When it comes to storing your Beef Barley Soup, you have a couple of great options. In the refrigerator, your soup can last for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portions; it will freeze well for 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if necessary to bring back its original consistency. Keep an eye out for any changes in smell or texture, as these can indicate spoiling.

Perfect Pairings

Beef Barley Soup is wonderfully versatile and pairs nicely with various sides:

Crusty bread or baguette to soak up the delicious broth
A fresh garden salad for a light contrast
Cheese biscuits for a comforting touch
Garlic bread for those who want a savory option
A light vinaigrette to cleanse the palate

Variations and Swaps

Feel free to make this Beef Barley Soup your own with some variations:

Substitute the beef with ground turkey for a leaner option.
Add mushrooms or green beans for more texture and flavor.
For a spicy twist, include some chili flakes or diced jalapeños.
Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano to switch up the aroma.
Use a mix of vegetables, including potatoes or peas, to customize it further.

Pro Tips for Best Results

To ensure your Beef Barley Soup turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

Make sure to brown the beef thoroughly for that rich flavor.
Always rinse the barley to remove excess starch before adding it to the soup.
Adjust the soup’s thickness by adding more broth as needed during simmering.
Taste and adjust the seasoning towards the end for a balanced flavor profile.

Your Questions Answered

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe? Yes, you can follow the same steps in a slow cooker. Just brown the meat first and then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
What can I use instead of barley? Quinoa or brown rice are excellent alternatives if you prefer a different grain.
Is this soup gluten-free? The recipe as it stands is not gluten-free due to the barley, but substituting with quinoa leaves it gluten-free.
How can I enhance the soup flavor? Adding Worcestershire sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar can deepen the flavor.
Can I store the soup in plastic containers? Yes, you can easily store your soup in plastic containers, making it easy to grab for meals.

Final Thoughts

Beef Barley Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a comforting hug in a bowl, ideal for any occasion when you want something satisfying and hearty. The blend of flavors and the nourishment it provides make it a go-to dish for many. Try making a batch soon for yourself and see how it brightens up your day! For more delicious ideas, check out this easy Mongolian ground beef noodles recipe and this delightful ground beef orzo recipe that are sure to please!

Beef Barley Soup

Author: anastasia-rice
Total Time: 60 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: None

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty Beef Barley Soup filled with tender beef, nutritious barley, and an array of vegetables, perfect for warming you up on chilly evenings.

Instructions

In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on each side for approximately 2 minutes. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook and stir for about 3–4 minutes, until the onion turns translucent.
Add the garlic, salt, thyme, and pepper. Stir and cook for an additional minute, allowing the aromas to fill your kitchen.
Now, it’s time to stir in the beef broth, rinsed barley, tomato paste, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Lower the heat to medium-low and return the browned beef to the pot. Cover and let it simmer for 35–45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the barley and carrots are tender.
Once served, sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired for a dash of color and flavor.

Notes

For optimal flavor, consider making the soup ahead of time to allow flavors to meld. It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for 2-3 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American