Easy Hamburger Soup Recipe

Looking for a meal that’s easy to whip up, hearty, and full of flavor? This Easy Hamburger Soup Recipe is a perfect one-pot dish that can be ready in under an hour. Packed with ground beef, vegetables, and a flavorful broth, this soup is ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious and comforting soup at home!

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat (optional if using a non-stick pot).
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Drain any excess fat from the pot and set the browned beef aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 3: Add the Liquids and Seasoning

1. Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), and tomato sauce.
2. Stir in the potato, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

1. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
2. Stir occasionally to prevent the soup from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Add the Frozen Vegetables

1. Stir in the frozen corn and peas.
2. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes until the frozen vegetables are heated through.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed.
2. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

Tips for Making the Best Hamburger Soup

• Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to minimize the amount of fat in the soup. If using a fattier blend, be sure to drain the excess fat after browning.
• Add More Veggies: You can easily customize this soup by adding vegetables like green beans, zucchini, or bell peppers. It’s a great way to use up what’s in your fridge!
• Boost the Flavor: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the broth.
• Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead meal. Store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

Variations

1. Low-Carb Hamburger Soup

For a low-carb version, skip the potatoes and substitute with cauliflower florets. You can also add more leafy greens like spinach or kale for extra nutrition.

2. Cheesy Hamburger Soup

Want a rich and creamy twist? Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese at the end for a cheesy, comforting version of this soup.

3. Spicy Hamburger Soup

Add some heat by including 1-2 teaspoons of chili powder or red pepper flakes to the soup. A diced jalapeño can also add a nice kick!

Serving Suggestions

• Crusty Bread: Serve this hearty soup with a slice of crusty bread or a soft dinner roll to soak up all the delicious broth.
• Grilled Cheese: Pair the soup with a melty grilled cheese sandwich for an ultimate comfort meal.
• Salad: A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup.

FAQs

1. Can I freeze hamburger soup?

Yes, hamburger soup freezes very well. Allow the soup to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

2. How long can I store leftovers in the fridge?

Leftover hamburger soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

3. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative to ground beef in this recipe if you prefer a leaner option or want to switch things up.

4. How can I make the soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the cooked potatoes with a fork and stir them back into the soup. Another option is to add a slurry of cornstarch and water to the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

5. Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, adding the frozen vegetables during the last 30 minutes.

Conclusion

This Easy Hamburger Soup Recipe is a comforting, filling, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just meal-prepping for the week, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Packed with tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a flavorful broth, it’s everything you need in a one-pot meal.

Yield: 6

Easy Hamburger Soup Recipe

Print

Looking for a meal that’s easy to whip up, hearty, and full of flavor? This Easy Hamburger Soup Recipe is a perfect one-pot dish that can be ready in under an hour. Packed with ground beef, vegetables, and a flavorful broth, this soup is ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious and comforting soup at home!

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Total Time 40 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
• 4 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 cup frozen corn (or canned, drained)
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a little heat)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Beef:
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
3. Add the Tomatoes and Broth:
   Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato paste, beef broth, oregano, basil, and bay leaf. Bring the soup to a simmer.
4. Simmer:
   Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer the soup for 20 minutes to let the flavors blend and the vegetables fully cook.
5. Add Corn and Peas:
   Stir in the frozen corn and peas. Cook for another 5 minutes until heated through.
6. Season and Serve:
   Remove the bay leaf and season the soup with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add potatoes, green beans, or bell peppers for extra variety.

Make It Lighter: You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version of this soup.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.