Hamburger soup has been a staple in my kitchen, especially on those busy weeknights when dinner needs to be both delicious and quick. I remember my mom making this hearty dish on chilly autumn evenings; the aroma alone was enough to make my mouth water! It’s the ultimate comfort food, and learning how to make hamburger soup myself was one of the first recipes I mastered. This easy hamburger soup recipe is so straightforward, you’ll wonder why you haven’t made it sooner. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Hamburger Soup
This hamburger soup is a winner for so many reasons! It’s incredibly flavorful, packed with tender vegetables and savory ground beef, making it the ultimate comfort food hamburger soup. You’ll love how quickly it comes together – it’s a fantastic simple ground beef soup that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly meal that’s both filling and nutritious, making it a hit with the whole family. This simple ground beef soup is truly a lifesaver when you need a satisfying meal without a lot of fuss.
- Incredible savory taste
- Ready in under an hour
- Packed with healthy vegetables
- Budget-friendly ingredients
- Kid-approved and family-friendly
- A true comfort food delight
Hamburger Soup Ingredients
Gathering your hamburger soup ingredients is the first step to this delicious meal. This recipe keeps it simple and hearty. You’ll need 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing, and 1 pound (450g) lean ground beef, which forms the savory base of our soup. For aromatics, grab 1 medium yellow onion, diced, and 2 cloves garlic, minced. The vegetables add color and nutrients: 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced, 2 celery stalks, sliced, and 1 large russet potato, peeled and diced. For that classic tomato flavor, we’ll use 1 (14.5 oz/410g) can diced tomatoes, undrained and 2 tablespoons tomato paste. The liquid base is 4 cups (950ml) beef broth. Finally, for seasoning and flavor, you’ll want 1 cup (150g) frozen green beans, 1 cup (150g) frozen corn, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 3/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste), and 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper. Fresh parsley for garnish is optional but recommended!
How to Make Hamburger Soup
Making this hamburger soup is a breeze, and it truly lives up to its reputation as a one pot hamburger soup. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to whip up this delicious meal from start to finish. Let’s get this hearty goodness simmering!
- Step 1: In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed soup pot, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the 1 pound (450g) lean ground beef and cook for about 5-6 minutes. Break up the beef with your spoon as it cooks until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink. If there’s excess fat, carefully drain it away. Now, toss in the 1 medium yellow onion, diced, and 2 cloves garlic, minced. Sauté them with the beef for another 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and begin to soften. The kitchen will start smelling amazing!
- Step 2: Add the chopped vegetables to the pot: 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced, 2 celery stalks, sliced, and 1 large russet potato, peeled and diced. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Next, pour in the 1 (14.5 oz/410g) can diced tomatoes (with their juices), 2 tablespoons tomato paste, and 4 cups (950ml) beef broth. Stir in the dried herbs – 1 teaspoon dried oregano and 1 teaspoon dried basil – along with 3/4 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper. Give it all a good stir to combine.
- Step 3: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Give it a stir every so often to make sure nothing sticks. This stage is crucial for building that deep, savory flavor that makes this ground beef soup recipe so satisfying.
- Step 4: Now, stir in the frozen vegetables: 1 cup (150g) frozen green beans and 1 cup (150g) frozen corn. Continue to simmer the soup, uncovered this time, for another 10-12 minutes. You want to cook until all the vegetables are perfectly tender and the soup has thickened slightly. This is what makes it a quick hamburger soup that’s ready in no time!
- Step 5: Taste your masterpiece and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt or pepper to your liking. Ladle the hot hamburger soup into bowls. For a fresh pop of color and flavor, garnish with some chopped fresh parsley if you have it on hand. Enjoy this delightful, homemade meal!
Pro Tips for the Best Hamburger Soup
Want to elevate your hamburger soup game? I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that make all the difference in creating the best hamburger soup. These simple tips will help you achieve perfect flavor and texture every time.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot: Ensure your ground beef browns properly by not adding too much at once. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Deglaze for flavor: After browning the beef, use a splash of beef broth or water to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This adds incredible depth.
- Vegetable prep matters: Dice your vegetables to a similar size so they cook evenly.
- Taste and adjust: Always taste your soup before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
What’s the secret to perfect hamburger soup?
The real secret to that amazing flavor in old fashioned hamburger soup is building layers of taste. Browning the beef well, sautéing the aromatics until fragrant, and letting the soup simmer to meld flavors are key. A good quality beef broth makes a huge difference too. For more information on building flavor in soups, check out this guide on making good stock.
Can I make hamburger soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This homemade hamburger soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. You can make it entirely a day ahead and reheat it gently on the stove. It’s perfect for meal prep.
How do I avoid common mistakes with hamburger soup?
A common pitfall is overcooking the vegetables, making them mushy. To avoid this, add them in stages as the recipe suggests. Also, don’t over-season initially; it’s easier to add salt than remove it. Finally, ensure you drain most of the fat from the ground beef for a cleaner flavor.
Best Ways to Serve Hamburger Soup
This hearty hamburger soup is so satisfying on its own, but I love serving it with a few classic pairings that make the meal even more complete. Crusty bread is a must-have for dipping into that rich broth – a good sourdough or a warm baguette works perfectly. If you want something a little lighter, oyster crackers or even some simple saltines are great too. For a more substantial meal, a side salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup beautifully. It’s a simple yet incredibly comforting combination that always hits the spot.
Nutrition Facts for Hamburger Soup
This ground beef soup recipe is surprisingly light and satisfying. Per serving, you’re looking at approximately 260 calories, which is fantastic for a hearty meal. It contains about 10g of fat, most of which is unsaturated, making it a healthier choice. You’ll also get a good boost of 18g of protein, perfect for keeping you full. This soup has around 22g of carbohydrates, with very little fiber and no sugar. It’s a simple, nourishing bowl that fits well into many diets. Please remember that nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used.
How to Store and Reheat Hamburger Soup
Properly storing and reheating your delicious hamburger soup ensures you can enjoy this easy hamburger soup for days to come. Once the soup has cooled down completely, which usually takes about an hour after cooking, transfer it into airtight containers. For refrigeration, glass or BPA-free plastic containers are ideal. Your homemade soup will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you plan to freeze it, which is a great way to have it on hand for longer, make sure to use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, you can either thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or you can reheat it directly from frozen on the stovetop, though this will take longer. Microwaving is also an option, just ensure it heats evenly throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hamburger Soup
What makes hamburger soup so popular?
Hamburger soup is a beloved classic because it’s incredibly versatile and satisfying. It’s a fantastic way to pack a lot of flavor and nutrients into one pot, making it a go-to for busy families. The combination of savory ground beef, tender vegetables, and a rich broth is pure comfort, which is why it remains such a popular choice for a hearty meal.
Can I make a hamburger vegetable soup without potatoes?
Absolutely! If you’re looking to make a lighter version or need to skip the potatoes, you can easily omit them. To keep your hamburger vegetable soup hearty, just add extra carrots, celery, or even some small pasta shapes or barley. You could also swap the potatoes for diced sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a different flavor profile.
What are the key differences between classic hamburger soup and other variations?
A classic hamburger soup typically includes ground beef, diced tomatoes, onions, carrots, celery, and a savory broth. Variations might add potatoes, corn, green beans, or even pasta. Some recipes offer a creamier texture with added milk or cream, while others might be spicier. The core is always the delicious ground beef and vegetable combination, but the additions make each version unique.
How can I make my hamburger soup more flavorful?
To boost the flavor in your soup, start by browning the ground beef really well. Sautéing the onions and garlic until they are soft and fragrant is also crucial. Don’t skimp on the herbs like oregano and basil! For an extra layer of depth, consider adding a bay leaf while it simmers, or using a richer beef broth. A splash of Worcestershire sauce can also add a wonderful umami kick to your soup.
Variations of Hamburger Soup You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the classic, there are so many fun ways to remix this delicious soup! If you love a hearty meal, you might enjoy a hamburger soup with potatoes, which makes it even more filling. For a richer, more decadent experience, try a cheesy hamburger soup by stirring in some shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese during the last few minutes of cooking until it’s melted and gooey. If you’re looking for a lighter option, skip the potatoes and add extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. You could also experiment with different broths, like chicken or vegetable broth, for a slightly different flavor profile. For a smoky depth, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika!
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Hamburger Soup: 1 Delicious Pot Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A hearty and comforting hamburger soup made with ground beef, vegetables, and savory broth. Perfect for a quick and easy family dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 large russet potato, peeled and diced
- 1 (14.5 oz/410g) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups (950ml) beef broth
- 1 cup (150g) frozen green beans
- 1 cup (150g) frozen corn
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 3/4 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed soup pot, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 5-6 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
- Stir in the carrots, celery, and diced potato. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the canned diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato paste, beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the green beans and corn. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for another 10-12 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender and flavors come together.
- Check for seasoning, add more salt or pepper if desired. Ladle hot soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy!
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use fire-roasted diced tomatoes.
- Add a bay leaf while simmering for extra depth, but remember to remove before serving.
- Want to up the nutrition? Toss in a handful of spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes in the pot or stir in a slurry of 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water during the last 5 minutes of simmering.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Dishes, Quick and Easy, Recipes, Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 260 calories
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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