Slow Cooker Beef Barley Soup
Crockpot beef barley soup is a hearty, slow-cooked dish packed with tender beef, nourishing vegetables, and flavorful barley. It’s the perfect comfort food for any day, providing a soul-satisfying warmth with every bite.
Slow cooking this soup allows the beef to become tender while the flavors from the vegetables and herbs meld together beautifully. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or dinner, this recipe delivers a filling and flavorful meal.
Key Ingredients for Crockpot Beef Barley Soup
- Beef chuck roast – A robust cut that turns tender after hours of slow cooking, adding rich, beefy flavor.
- Pearl barley – Nutty and chewy, barley brings texture and heartiness to the soup.
- Carrots – Naturally sweet, they balance the savory flavors while adding color and nutrition.
- Celery – Offers a light crunch and subtle earthiness, pairing well with the broth.
- Potatoes – Yukon gold or russets provide a soft, starchy element, making the soup even more filling.
- Onion and garlic – A classic aromatic duo that deepens the savory profile of the soup.
- Beef broth – Forms the rich, comforting base of the soup.
- Tomato paste – Adds a touch of tang and umami, enhancing the overall depth of the broth.
- Fresh thyme and bay leaves – Infuse the soup with herbal notes, elevating the slow-cooked flavor.
- Worcestershire sauce – Brings a savory, umami kick that complements the beef.
Simple Steps for a Perfect Beef Barley Soup
Start by searing the beef cubes in a skillet if you desire a deeper, more robust flavor. This step adds caramelization to the beef and intensifies the savory base of your soup. Then, transfer the beef, vegetables, barley, broth, and seasonings to the crockpot. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, letting the flavors meld beautifully over time. Once done, remove the bay leaves and thyme stems before serving.
Recipe Tips for Success
For extra flavor, don’t skip the searing step—it locks in moisture and adds a rich taste to the beef. The “Better than Bouillon” beef base is another excellent addition for an extra boost of beefy goodness. You can also try adding a splash of red wine during cooking for an even richer broth. If you prefer a thicker soup, mash a few of the potatoes or add more barley as needed.
Storing Your Beef Barley Soup
This crockpot beef barley soup stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Simply reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. If you plan to freeze the soup, let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a bit of broth or water to thin it out if the barley has absorbed too much liquid.
Crockpot Beef Barley Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 2/3 cup pearl barley
- 1.5 lbs beef chuck roast trimmed of excess fat and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 ribs celery sliced lengthwise and cut into 1/2 to 1-inch pieces
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 medium yellow or sweet onion diced
- 6 cups reduced-sodium beef broth or stock
- 2 Tbsp tomato paste
- 2 carrots peeled and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 – 1 1/2 lbs potatoes Yukon gold or russets, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 Tbsp better than bouillon beef base optional but recommended
Instructions
- If you prefer a richer flavor, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef cubes for 1-2 minutes on each side until browned.
- Transfer the beef and all remaining ingredients into your slow cooker. Stir well to combine everything.
- Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or if you’re short on time, cook on high for 4-5 hours.
- Once the soup has finished cooking, discard the bay leaves and thyme stems. Serve hot, ideally with crusty bread on the side for dipping.