There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of hamburger soup, don’t you think? It’s like a big hug in a bowl! This hearty soup is packed with delicious flavors and vibrant veggies that make it perfect for chilly days when you just want to cozy up. I remember the first time I made it; it was one of those brisk autumn evenings, and the smell of simmering beef and fresh vegetables filled my kitchen. My family couldn’t wait to dig in, and it quickly became a favorite! Trust me, this soup isn’t just satisfying—it’s downright soul-soothing. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that’ll warm you right up!
Ingredients for Hamburger Soup
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making this delicious hamburger soup! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup green beans, cut into pieces
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Make sure to chop your veggies nice and small so they cook evenly. And if you can, go for fresh ingredients—it makes a world of difference! Don’t worry if you’re missing something; this soup is super flexible, and you can always swap in what you have on hand. Let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Hamburger Soup
Now, let’s get into the fun part—making the hamburger soup! This is where the magic happens, and I promise it’s super easy to follow. Just take it step by step, and you’ll have a comforting bowl of goodness in no time!
Step 1: Sauté the Ground Beef
First things first, grab a large pot and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot, add the ground beef. Cook it up until it’s fully browned, breaking it apart with your spoon as it cooks. You want to get that lovely rich color—this is where the flavor starts! It should take about 5–7 minutes. Don’t rush this part; it’s crucial!
Step 2: Add Vegetables
Next, it’s time to add in the chopped onion, diced carrots, diced celery, and minced garlic. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 5 minutes, or until the veggies are soft and fragrant. Oh, the aroma will be heavenly! This step really brings out the flavors, so take your time and enjoy the process.
Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients
Now, let’s build on that delicious base! Add the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices), the beef broth, green beans, diced potatoes, and Worcestershire sauce. Give it a good stir, and then bring the mixture to a boil. You’ll want to see those bubbles! This helps all the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This is where all the magic happens! Just keep an eye on it, and feel free to stir occasionally. After 30 minutes, check if the vegetables are tender. You can poke a potato piece with a fork to see if it’s soft enough. If it is, you’re golden!
Step 5: Season and Serve
Finally, it’s time to season! Add salt and pepper to taste—don’t be shy, this is where you can really customize it to your liking. Once it’s seasoned perfectly, serve it hot in bowls. I love to enjoy my hamburger soup with some crusty bread or crunchy crackers on the side for that extra comfort. Dive in and savor every delicious bite!
Tips for Success
Making a delicious hamburger soup is all about those little touches that elevate the dish! Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure yours turns out perfectly every time:
- Use Homemade Broth: If you have the time, using homemade beef broth can take your soup to the next level. It adds a depth of flavor that store-bought broth just can’t match. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover beef bones or scraps!
- Don’t Skip the Browning: Take your time browning the ground beef. This step adds a rich, savory flavor that’s hard to replicate. You want that nice brown color, so don’t rush it!
- Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to throw in any extra vegetables you have on hand! Corn, peas, or even bell peppers can add color and nutrition to the soup. Just chop them up and add them in during the vegetable step.
- Adjust Seasonings: Always taste as you go! If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or some red pepper flakes. You can also experiment with herbs like thyme or parsley for added freshness.
- Let It Rest: If you can, let the soup sit for a bit after cooking. The flavors will continue to develop as it cools, making it even tastier. It’s also a great make-ahead meal!
- Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to cool it down before transferring to an airtight container. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, but it’s best enjoyed fresh!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making an amazing hamburger soup that everyone will love. Enjoy the cooking process and don’t hesitate to make it your own!
Variations on Hamburger Soup
One of the best things about hamburger soup is how versatile it is! You can truly make it your own by mixing in different ingredients or changing things up based on what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to get your creative juices flowing:
- Different Proteins: While ground beef is a classic choice, you can easily swap it out for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat if you want to keep it lighter or vegetarian. Each option brings its own unique flavor!
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy a little kick, try adding some chili powder, cumin, or even a dash of cayenne pepper. It’ll elevate the flavor and add some warmth to your soup!
- Veggie Power: Don’t be afraid to toss in some extra veggies! Corn, peas, bell peppers, or even kale can add color and nutrition to your soup. Just chop them up and add them in with the other vegetables.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley can add a burst of freshness. Add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their bright flavors. Dried herbs work too—just remember they’re more concentrated!
- Pasta or Rice: For a heartier soup, consider adding a handful of pasta or cooked rice. Just be sure to adjust the broth accordingly, as these ingredients will absorb some of the liquid. It’s a nice way to make the soup more filling!
- Cheesy Delight: For a comforting twist, stir in some shredded cheese just before serving. Cheddar is a great choice, but feel free to experiment with your favorites. Who doesn’t love a little cheesy goodness?
These variations not only keep things interesting but also allow you to cater to your family’s tastes or whatever you have in your pantry. Have fun experimenting and make this hamburger soup truly yours!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into this hamburger soup! Each serving is estimated to be around:
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fiber: 4g
These values can vary depending on specific ingredients you use, especially if you opt for homemade broth or different types of meat. But overall, this soup is a hearty and nutritious option that’s sure to fill you up without any guilt. It’s a great choice for those cozy nights when you want something comforting yet wholesome. Enjoy every spoonful knowing it’s doing good for you!
FAQ About Hamburger Soup
Got questions about making hamburger soup? No worries! I’ve got you covered with answers to some of the most common queries. Let’s dive right in!
How long does it take to cook hamburger soup?
From start to finish, you’re looking at about 50 minutes. This includes 10 minutes of prep time and 40 minutes of cooking time. It’s pretty quick for such a hearty meal!
Can I store leftovers?
Absolutely! Leftover hamburger soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool down before putting it away. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I freeze hamburger soup?
Yes, you can! Just let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It should keep well for about 2–3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it up on the stove. Easy peasy!
What can I substitute for ground beef?
If you want to switch things up, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives. Each option will give your soup a unique flavor, so pick your favorite!
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Hamburger soup is super flexible. Feel free to toss in any veggies you have on hand—corn, peas, bell peppers, or even spinach. Just chop them up and add them in when you add the other vegetables!
Is there a way to make this soup spicy?
If you like a little heat, try adding some chili powder, crushed red pepper flakes, or even a splash of hot sauce. Start with a small amount and taste as you go—you can always add more!
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
You can! Just brown the beef and sauté the veggies first, then add everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. It’ll be delicious and super easy!
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need tips. Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious bowl of hamburger soup!
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try this hamburger soup! It’s such a cozy dish that warms not just your belly but your heart too. I’d love to hear about your experiences making it, so don’t be shy—drop a comment below and share how it turned out for you! Did you add any of your favorite veggies or spices? Let’s swap stories!
And hey, if you know someone who would enjoy this comforting bowl of goodness, be sure to pass this recipe along. Cooking is always better when shared with friends and family, and who knows? You might inspire someone else to whip up this delightful soup. Enjoy every spoonful, and happy cooking!
Print
Hamburger Soup: 5 Steps to a Cozy Comfort Dish
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A hearty and comforting hamburger soup packed with vegetables and flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup green beans, cut into pieces
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
- Stir in the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until vegetables are soft.
- Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, green beans, potatoes, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy your meal!
Notes
- For more flavor, use homemade beef broth.
- You can add other vegetables like corn or peas.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: hamburger soup, easy soup recipe, comfort food