Hamburger soup is one of those delightful dishes that warms your heart and fills your belly. Imagine coming home after a long day, the aroma of savory beef and fresh veggies wafting through the air. It draws you in, inviting you to take a seat and enjoy a steaming bowl of comfort. This soup is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty without the hassle. Not only does it combine ground beef with a medley of colorful vegetables, but it also packs a rich, flavorful broth that brings everything together. The best part? You probably already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen! So, whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone just looking to whip up a quick dinner, Hamburger Soup is a crowd-pleaser. Let’s get cooking and bring a little warmth to your table!
Why This Recipe Works
Hamburger soup is a quintessential comfort dish that combines ground beef with wholesome vegetables and rich broth, providing a satisfying meal in one pot. Using simple ingredients that are often already in your pantry, this soup highlights the interplay of flavors that develop beautifully during cooking. That’s why you won’t have any leftovers!
Why You’ll Love This Hamburger Soup
This Hamburger Soup encapsulates warmth and nostalgia, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. It fills you up, while the variety of vegetables lends a rounded, vibrant taste. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized according to your family’s preferences. This adaptability makes it a favorite among cooking enthusiasts. The ability to personalize the recipe lets you cater to every palate at the dinner table.
Ingredients
To get started, here’s what you will need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, grated or minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices
- 1 pound Yukon Gold potatoes, diced
- 1 parmesan cheese rind (optional)
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- Chopped flat-leaf parsley for garnish (optional)
With everything on hand, you’re all set to create a delicious Hamburger Soup!
Cooking Instructions
Heat the Oil and Sauté the Vegetables
To begin, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, toss in the diced onion, chopped celery, and diced carrots. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables become tender and start to soften. You’ll want the onions to be translucent and the carrots to have a bit of bite left to them.
Brown the Ground Beef
Next, add in 1 pound of lean ground beef. Break it up with a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks. Season with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if you’re in the mood for a little heat), salt, and black pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes. Stir often to ensure even cooking.
Incorporate Garlic and Tomato Paste
Now it’s time to amp up the flavor. Stir in the grated or minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until it’s fragrant. Then, add in 1 tablespoon of tomato paste. Mix it thoroughly with the vegetables and beef, so everything gets coated in that rich tomato flavor.
Add Potatoes, Tomatoes, and Broth
Incorporate the diced Yukon Gold potatoes, the can of diced tomatoes (don’t forget the juices!), and that optional parmesan cheese rind if you have it. Next, pour in 4 cups of low-sodium beef broth. Stir well to combine, making sure to scrape up any brown bits stuck to the bottom of your pot. This will enhance the richness of your soup.
Simmer the Soup
Now, bring the soup to a boil, and then reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow it to simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir occasionally, enjoying the mouthwatering scent that fills your kitchen. It’s hard to resist tasting the broth at this stage!
Finish with Peas and Serve
Just a few minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in 1/2 cup of frozen peas. They add a nice pop of color and sweetness. After it’s heated through, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped flat-leaf parsley if desired. Your Hamburger Soup is now ready to be enjoyed!
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, serve your flavorful Hamburger Soup with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh garden salad. Each pairing complements the soup’s hearty essence and will surely satisfy everyone’s appetite.
Tips for Success
- Choosing lean ground beef is a smart way to keep the soup healthier.
- Don’t skip the garlic or seasonings—they play crucial roles in enhancing the soup’s flavor.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes according to your preference; they can give just the right kick!
Variations
Feel free to get creative! Substitute ground turkey for beef for a lighter option, or consider adding your favorite seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. These additions can elevate the flavor and texture of your soup, letting your creativity shine.
Storage Tips
Leftovers? No problem! Hamburger Soup can be stored in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. In the freezer, it can last for about 3 months. Reheating is easy; simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave before enjoying.
Pairing Ideas
To elevate your dining experience, pair your Hamburger Soup with a glass of red wine, such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon. If you’re looking for something lighter, refreshing iced tea works wonderfully.
FAQs
1. Can I make Hamburger Soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Just brown the beef and vegetables as instructed, then transfer to your slow cooker with all remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
2. Is Hamburger Soup healthy?
Absolutely! It includes lean protein and a variety of vegetables, making it a nutritious choice, especially when made with low-sodium broth.
3. Can I freeze Hamburger Soup?
You can! Allow it to cool, package it in airtight containers, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
4. What herbs can I add to Hamburger Soup for extra flavor?
Add additional herbs like basil, thyme, or parsley. These can elevate the flavor profile, whether fresh or dried.
5. How can I thicken Hamburger Soup?
If you’d prefer a thicker consistency, try adding a cornstarch slurry or instant potatoes during cooking. Alternatively, you can blend a portion of the soup and stir it back into the pot.
This Hamburger Soup not only embodies the heartiness that every family meal should have, but it also invites creativity through its variations. Each bite is a delicious reminder that simple ingredients can create extraordinary dishes. Enjoy this effortless, nourishing soup that resonates with the essence of comfort cooking!
Print
Hamburger Soup
Hamburger Soup is a comforting one-pot dish filled with savory ground beef and a medley of fresh vegetables. It’s easy to prepare, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, grated or minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices
- 1 pound Yukon Gold potatoes, diced
- 1 parmesan cheese rind (optional)
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- Chopped flat-leaf parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Sauté diced onion, chopped celery, and diced carrots until tender.
- Add ground beef, breaking it up, and season with Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook until browned.
- Stir in garlic and tomato paste, mixing thoroughly.
- Add diced potatoes, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir well and scrape any brown bits.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in frozen peas just before serving, garnish with parsley if desired.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Choose lean ground beef to keep the soup healthier.
Do not skip garlic or seasonings as they enhance flavor.
Adjust red pepper flakes to your heat preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 10
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Unsaturated Fat: 5
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 5
- Protein: 20
- Cholesterol: 50
