Savory Winter Soup

2 pounds ground beef
3 medium onions, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
3 cans (10-1/2 ounces each) condensed beef broth, undiluted
1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
3 cups water
1 cup each diced carrots and celery
1 cup fresh or frozen cut green beans
1 cup cubed peeled potatoes
2 teaspoons dried parsley flakes
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

In a skillet, cook beef, onions and garlic over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink; drain. Transfer to a 5-qt. slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and mix well.

Cover and cook on high for 8 hours or until heated through. Makes 14 servings (3-1/2 quarts). To save chopping time, use frozen sliced carrots and cubed hash brown potatoes in Savory Winter Soup.