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Beef & Barley Soup Crock Pot

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How to Make Beef & Barley Soup in a Crock Pot

Step 1: Brown the Beef (Optional but Recommended)

  • Heat olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
  • Sear the beef for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned.
  • Transfer the beef to the slow cooker. (This step adds extra flavor, but you can skip it for a faster prep.)

Step 2: Add Everything to the Slow Cooker

  • Place the carrots, celery, onion, potatoes, garlic, diced tomatoes, barley, and seasonings into the crock pot.
  • Pour in the beef broth and add the bay leaf and Worcestershire sauce.
  • Give everything a good stir to combine.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

  • Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the beef is tender and the barley is fully cooked.
  • Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!

  • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
  • Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Tips & Variations

For a Thicker Soup – If you like a thicker consistency, let the soup cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes or mash a few potatoes.
Add More Vegetables – Try adding mushrooms, peas, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Make It Gluten-Free – Swap barley for quinoa or rice for a gluten-free option.
Use Leftover Roast Beef – If you have leftover roast beef, shred it and add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking.


Storing & Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: This soup freezes well! Let it cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.

Final Thoughts

This Beef & Barley Soup is a true comfort food classic, made even easier with the convenience of a crock pot. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or just craving something warm and filling, this recipe is guaranteed to hit the spot.

Give it a try and let me know how it turns out! 😊🍲🥖

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