Best Hearty Beef and Barley Soup Recipe (2025)

This Beef and Barley Soup Recipe is a hearty and flavorful soup that’s packed with tender chunks of beef, plump barley, and hearty vegetables.

I’ve got a delicious recipe that’s perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you’re in the mood for something warm and comforting. It’s my Beef and Barley Soup Recipe!

This soup is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl! (Actually, a hug from soup sounds messy. Don’t do that, haha!)

This recipe is super easy to make and fills your kitchen with the most inviting aroma.

Isn’t that one of the best things about soup recipes? As they cook on the stove or the instant pot, your whole house begins to smell amazing!

Whether you’re a soup lover or trying this combination for the first time, you’re in for a treat. This hearty soup will satisfy your taste buds and fill your belly.

There is seriously nothing better on a cold, windy day than a bowl of delicious soup. It’s comfort food at its finest!

So, let’s dive into why this Beef and Barley Soup recipe is a must-try and how you can whip up a pot for yourself and your loved ones.

Some of our other favorite soup recipes we have on our site include: Best Italian Wedding Soup Recipe (from Scratch), , and Wonton Soup Recipe.

WHY THIS RECIPE WORKS:

1. Hearty and filling: Perfect for satisfying big appetites with its tender chunks of beef and whole grain barley.
2. Nutritious: Packed with hearty vegetables and lean protein for a balanced meal.
3. Easy to make: This hearty beef barley soup has simple instructions, making this recipe a breeze to follow.

INGREDIENTS NEEDED (SCROLL TO THE BOTTOM OF THIS POST FOR THE FULL RECIPE CARD):

• Beef stew meat
• Onion
• Garlic clove
• Olive oil
• Carrots
• Celery
• Beef stock
• Petite diced tomatoes
• Green pepper
• Barley
• Worcestershire sauce
• Dry beef gravy mix
• Bay leaf
• Fresh thyme
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

HOW TO MAKE BEEF AND BARLEY SOUP RECIPE:

1. Add the beef stew meat, diced onion, minced garlic, and olive oil to a large skillet. Cook over medium-high heat until the stew meat is just browned.
2. Transfer the stew meat mixture to a large soup pot.
3. Add the sliced carrots, sliced celery, beef broth, petite diced tomatoes, diced green pepper, Worcestershire sauce, beef gravy mix, bay leaf, and 3-4 sprigs of fresh thyme to the soup pot.
4. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce to medium-low heat. Simmer for 45 minutes, covered, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the barley and simmer for an additional 45 minutes, uncovered, or until the beef is tender. Once the stew is finished simmering, remove the bay leaf and thyme from the pot. Serve immediately.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS RECIPE:

WHAT IS BARLEY?

Barley is a whole grain that adds a nutty flavor and chewy texture to soups and stews.

It’s packed with fiber and nutrients. Back in the day, it used to be a staple that basically everyone ate on a regular basis.

These days, it isn’t used as much. After trying this soup, though, I’ve decided I need more of it in my life. It’s so darn tasty!

WHAT IS THE BEST CUT OF BEEF TO USE?

Beef stew meat or beef chuck roast are great choices because they become tender and flavorful when cooked slowly.

This is really the perfect meal for those cuts. They add a lot of beefy flavor to the soup, and the end result is magical.

HOW TO REHEAT?

Reheat the soup gently on the stove over medium heat until warm, stirring occasionally.

You can also microwave it in a suitable container. Typically I’ll microwave if it’s a single serving.

If I’m heating it up for a larger group, it’ll go on the stove.

ANY ADDITIONS?

Oh, I can see all kinds of possibilities for this soup. Check out this quick list!

• Cremini mushrooms for a deeper flavor
• A splash of red wine for richness
• Chunks of potato for an even heartier soup
• A handful of spinach or kale for a green boost
• Pearl barley instead of regular barley for a quicker cook time
• A few drops of soy sauce for an umami flavor
• Fresh rosemary for a fragrant touch
• Diced turnips or parsnips for variety
• A dollop of sour cream on top before serving
• Crispy bacon bits for a salty crunch

ANY SUBSTITUTIONS?

Let me know in the comments if you have any other great ideas for substitutions. I always love hearing from you!

• Chicken broth or low-sodium beef broth instead of regular beef broth for a lighter taste
• Turkey or chicken meat for a leaner option
• Quinoa or rice instead of barley for a gluten-free version
• Sweet potatoes instead of carrots for a sweet twist

HOW TO STORE:

Refrigerator:Keep the soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer:Freeze in suitable containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Beef and Barley Soup is a meal that brings comfort and warmth with every spoonful.

Whether it’s dinner time, lunchtime, or any time in between, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. It’s packed with nutritious ingredients, making it a great choice for a wholesome meal.

So let’s get to it! Grab your pot and let’s make this delicious Beef and Barley Soup Recipe today!

If you’ve tried this BEEF AND BARLEY SOUP RECIPE, let me know how it turned out in the comments! You can follow me over on PINTEREST, INSTAGRAM OR FACEBOOK to find some more of our mouthwatering recipes!