Hamburger Soup

Hamburger Soup is a hearty, flavorful, and comforting dish packed with ground beef, vegetables, and a rich broth. It’s an easy one-pot meal that’s perfect for chilly nights, meal prep, or when you need a satisfying dinner in a hurry. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make – Uses simple pantry ingredients and requires minimal prep.
• Hearty and nutritious – Packed with protein, veggies, and a flavorful broth.
• Great for meal prep – Tastes even better the next day!
• Customizable – Adjust the vegetables, seasoning, and protein to your liking.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Onion
• Garlic
• Carrots
• Celery
• Potatoes
• Diced tomatoes (canned)
• Tomato paste
• Beef broth
• Worcestershire sauce
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Bay leaf
• Frozen or canned corn (optional)
• Green beans or peas (optional)

Directions

1. Brown the beef – In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Sauté the vegetables – Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add broth and seasonings – Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and bay leaf.
4. Simmer – Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20-25 minutes.
5. Add potatoes and corn – Stir in potatoes and optional vegetables. Simmer until potatoes are tender (about 15 minutes).
6. Serve – Remove the bay leaf, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Low-carb version – Swap potatoes for cauliflower or zucchini.
• Spicy kick – Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Thicker soup – Add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water).
• Extra protein – Stir in cooked beans or lentils for added nutrition.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm on the stove over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey or chicken are great lean substitutes.

What other vegetables can I add?

Bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or cabbage all work well.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef first, then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

How do I make it more flavorful?

Use high-quality beef broth, add fresh herbs, or a splash of balsamic vinegar.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes! Use about 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes.

What can I serve with hamburger soup?

It pairs well with crusty bread, cornbread, or a side salad.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally dairy-free.

How do I make it vegetarian?

Omit the beef and use vegetable broth and plant-based crumbles or beans.

What’s the best way to thicken the soup?

Use mashed potatoes or a cornstarch slurry for a thicker consistency.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes! Just use a larger pot and adjust seasoning to taste.

Conclusion

Hamburger Soup is a simple, comforting, and hearty dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. With its rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy a warm, satisfying bowl of homemade goodness!

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