Delicious Hamburger Soup
A Comforting Bowl of Hamburger Soup
There’s something undeniably soothing about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it features the hearty goodness of hamburger soup. This dish effortlessly combines ground beef with fresh vegetables, creating a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for chilly evenings or a busy weeknight, this recipe has become a staple in my home. Its creamy texture and delightful flavors make it a go-to for both my family and friends, giving everyone that cozy feeling reminiscent of home-cooked meals.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Making hamburger soup offers numerous benefits that make it stand out in your recipe repertoire. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for those hectic days when you need a comforting meal in a pinch. Budget-wise, this dish is a winner as it requires simple, affordable ingredients that you may already have on hand. Plus, its versatility means that even picky eaters will ask for seconds—after all, what kid can resist a rich, meaty soup?
“This hamburger soup has become my family’s favorite! It’s flavorful, hearty, and I love that I can throw everything into one pot.” – A happy home cook
The Cooking Process Explained
Preparing delicious hamburger soup is as simple as it is rewarding. With just a few steps, you’ll create a wholesome, nourishing meal. You start by browning the ground beef to unlock its flavors, then add your fresh vegetables to let their essence mingle. Finally, a simmering broth brings everything together, allowing the ingredients to harmonize. Follow along, and soon you’ll be savoring a delightful bowl of this homemade goodness.
What You’ll Need
To whip up this delicious hamburger soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 4 cups vegetable stock
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to substitute the ground beef with turkey for a leaner option or toss in any leftover vegetables you might have.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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In a large pot, set the heat to medium and add the ground beef. Cook it, stirring occasionally, until it’s fully browned. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat for a healthier meal!
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Once the beef is ready, add the chopped onions, celery, and diced carrots. Sauté these veggies until they soften—this usually takes about 5 minutes.
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Next, stir in the green beans, diced tomatoes, corn, and potatoes.
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Pour the vegetable stock into the pot and season everything with garlic powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper to taste.
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Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat. Allow it to simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
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Serve hot, ladling the soup into bowls!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
To elevate your hamburger soup experience, consider serving it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream on top. A side of crusty bread or homemade cornbread pairs perfectly, allowing you to soak up every last spoonful. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of shredded cheese can even give this dish an extra touch of indulgence.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing your hamburger soup is straightforward. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container, where it can stay fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days. If you want to save some for later, this soup freezes beautifully! Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, ensuring it’s heated through to 165°F for safety.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Use Lean Beef: Opt for lean or extra-lean ground beef to cut down on excess fat and calories.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to customize with any veggies you have on hand—zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach work well.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy a kick of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Creative Twists
Experimenting with variations of this hamburger soup can keep your taste buds excited. For a spicy twist, you could add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper. For a creamier soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk just before serving. You can also tailor it to be healthier by using quinoa or brown rice as a substitute for potatoes.
Common Questions
What is the prep time for this hamburger soup?
Prep time is approximately 15 minutes, with a cooking time of about 30 minutes, making it quick and simple to put together.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Hamburger soup keeps well in the fridge for up to four days, and the flavors deepen deliciously over time.
What are some great substitution ideas for this recipe?
You can swap ground turkey or even use plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian version. You can also incorporate any leftover vegetables or a variety of legumes for additional texture.
Enjoy crafting this filling and flavorful hamburger soup, a warm hug in a bowl that’s sure to become a favorite in your home!
Hamburger Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, set the heat to medium and add the ground beef. Cook until fully browned, draining any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onions, celery, and diced carrots. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the green beans, diced tomatoes, corn, and potatoes.
- Pour in the vegetable stock and season with garlic powder, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes, until vegetables are tender.
- Serve hot, ladling the soup into bowls.
