Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty Beef & Barley Soup is a comforting, filling dish packed with tender beef, nutty barley, and wholesome vegetables simmered in a rich broth. Perfect for cold days or when you need a satisfying meal in one bowl, this soup is both nutritious and deeply flavorful. It’s a timeless classic that’s easy to make and even better the next day.

ingredients

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

beef stew meat (chuck or round)oniongarliccarrotscelerytomatoes (diced or crushed)pearl barleybeef brothbay leavesthymeparsleyolive oilsaltblack pepperwater

directions

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

Add the beef and brown on all sides, then remove and set aside.

In the same pot, sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened.

Return the beef to the pot and stir in the tomatoes, beef broth, water, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes.

Add the pearl barley and continue to simmer for another 30-40 minutes, or until the beef and barley are tender.

Remove bay leaves, adjust seasoning, and stir in chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesInitial simmer: 45 minutesBarley simmer: 30-40 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

Add mushrooms for extra umami and earthiness.

Use quick-cooking barley to reduce total cooking time.

Swap beef for ground meat or shredded rotisserie chicken for a different twist.

Include potatoes or sweet potatoes for added heartiness.

Add a splash of red wine during the sauté step for depth of flavor.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Soup can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.Add a bit of water or broth when reheating to loosen consistency if needed.

FAQs

Can I use another type of meat?

Yes, ground beef or leftover roast beef works well too.

Does barley need to be soaked before cooking?

No, pearl barley does not require soaking—just rinse before adding.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Sear the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Is this soup gluten-free?

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

Can I use vegetable broth instead?

Yes, but the flavor will be less rich. Add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire for depth.

Why is my soup too thick?

Barley absorbs a lot of liquid—just add more broth or water to adjust consistency.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

Dried herbs work fine; use about one-third the amount.

Can I add greens?

Yes, stir in spinach or kale during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking.

How can I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to taste.

Can I prep this ahead?

Yes, the flavors deepen overnight—great for make-ahead meals.

Conclusion

Hearty Beef & Barley Soup is a warm, nourishing dish that brings comfort and satisfaction in every spoonful. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this classic soup is a reliable favorite that delivers on taste and texture every time.