Hamburger Soup

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Hamburger soup holds a special place in my heart as a comforting, one-pot meal that is consistently satisfying. It’s the kind of dish you whip up on a busy weeknight or when you want something hearty without a lot of fuss. With just a handful of ingredients, including flavorful ground sirloin and fresh vegetables, it captures the essence of home-cooked goodness. Plus, it’s perfect for cool evenings when you’re in need of a warm hug in a bowl.

Why you’ll love this dish

There are many reasons why hamburger soup stands out. First and foremost, it’s delightfully easy to prepare—perfect for novice cooks or those pressed for time. You only need one pot (or crock-pot) to create something delicious, which means less cleanup for you. The flavor combinations of the savory meat, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices create a dish that feels special without requiring much effort.

The soup is also budget-friendly, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or meal prepping. Imagine gathering around the table after a long day, with a warm pot of soup that pleases even the pickiest of eaters!

"My family loved this soup! It was super easy to make, and everyone went back for seconds!" – A Happy Home Cook

The cooking process explained

Making your own hamburger soup is a straightforward process that involves browning the meat and combining cozy ingredients into a hearty pot. With just a few steps, you’ll be assembling a dish filled with flavor and nutrition. Here’s a quick overview to prepare you for a delightful cooking experience:

1. Brown ground sirloin in a skillet.
2. Combine all ingredients in a crock-pot.
3. Let the soup simmer, and voilà, you have a nourishing meal!

What you’ll need

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for your hamburger soup. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• 1 pound Ground Sirloin (cooked and crumbled)
• 1 large yellow onion (chopped)
• 4 large white potatoes (peeled and diced)
• 4 large carrots (peeled and sliced)
• 1 Tablespoon Garlic (minced)
• 4 cups Chicken Broth
• Water (as needed)
• 1 can (6-8 ounces) Tomato Paste (preferably with Basil, Garlic, and Oregano)
• 2 Tablespoons Lipton Onion Soup Mix
• 1 Tablespoon Italian Seasoning
• Garlic Salt (to taste)
• Salt (to taste)
• Pepper (to taste)
• 2 Tablespoons Brown Sugar
• 1/2 package Frozen Peas (added near the end)

Feel free to swap out vegetables or seasonings according to your preference!

Step-by-step instructions

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Let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps to create your homemade hamburger soup:

1. In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet, brown the ground sirloin until no pink is visible.
2. Season the sirloin with garlic salt and pepper, then transfer it to a crock-pot.
3. Chop the onion and add it to the crock-pot.
4. Peel and dice the potatoes and carrots, then add them to the pot as well.
5. Stir in the minced garlic and chicken broth.
6. Add the tomato paste, onion soup mix, and Italian seasoning. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients by about three inches.
7. Mix it all together, adjusting the seasoning with garlic salt, seasoned salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Stir in the brown sugar for a touch of sweetness.
9. Cover with the lid and cook on the high setting for 6 hours, stirring occasionally.
10. About 45 minutes before serving, add the frozen peas to maintain their vibrant green color.
11. If you’re not ready to serve right at the 6-hour mark, reduce to low heat and add more water if needed.
12. Serve with your favorite crackers or crusty bread.

Enjoy your meal!

Best ways to enjoy it

Making hamburger soup is just the beginning! How you serve it can elevate the experience even more. Consider garnishing with fresh parsley or grated cheese for an extra touch. Slice some crusty bread to dip into the broth, or serve with a simple side salad for a balanced meal. You can also offer condiments like hot sauce or Worcestershire sauce for those who enjoy a bit of kick.

Storage and reheating tips

Making extra hamburger soup is a smart move! To store leftovers, simply let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it has thickened too much. Always ensure that the soup is heated through to an internal temperature of 165°F before serving again.

Extra advice

Here are a few tips to help you nail this recipe every time:

• For an even richer flavor, consider sautéing the onions and garlic in the skillet before adding the ground meat. It adds a lovely aroma to the base of your soup.
• Mix in some fresh herbs like basil or thyme for added depth.
• Feel free to add other vegetables to the mix! Green beans or corn can be great additions too.

Creative twists

Looking to shake things up? Here are a few variations to try:

• Swap ground sirloin for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Experiment with different spice blends, such as taco seasoning for a Tex-Mex twist.
• For a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.

Common questions

What is the prep time for hamburger soup?

Prep time typically takes about 15-20 minutes, while cooking time is around 6 hours on high in the crock-pot.

Can I use other types of meet?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based protein can work well in this soup.

How can I store the soup safely?

Ensure the soup is cooled down before placing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage. Always check that the soup is heated to a safe temperature when reheating.

By following this recipe, you’ll create a heartwarming dish your family will love—one that brings warmth and happiness to your dinner table!