Hamburger Soup
Hamburger soup is one of those delightful meals that warms you from the inside out. With a hearty blend of ground beef, veggies, and comforting broth, it’s the perfect dish for chilly evenings or busy weeknights. I love how this recipe combines simplicity with heartiness, making it a staple for families and busy individuals. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies for those picky eaters at home!
Why you’ll love this dish
This hamburger soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with flavor and comfort. Here are a few reasons why you should consider making it:
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, you can have a wholesome dinner on the table in about an hour. Perfect for those weeknight rushes!
- Budget-Friendly: Using ground beef and pantry staples means you won’t break the bank. It’s economical while still being satisfying.
- Kid-Approved: The combination of familiar flavors makes it a hit with kids and adults alike. Expect leftovers to disappear quickly!
- Versatile: This soup can be tailored to whatever you have on hand, making it a flexible option for any cook.
“A comforting hug in a bowl! Perfect for those cold nights and packed with just the right amount of flavor.” – Happy Home Cook
The cooking process explained
Making hamburger soup is a straightforward journey from fresh ingredients to a delicious meal. Here’s how it goes:
- Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot. This adds depth to your soup.
- Once the beef is nicely browned, toss in your chopped veggies and sauté for a few minutes.
- Next, introduce your assorted vegetables and broth; let everything mingle and simmer.
- Finally, season it to your liking and allow it to cook until the veggies are tender.
This soup comes together beautifully, offering you both ease and satisfaction.
What you’ll need
To create this hearty hamburger soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 cup green beans, cut into pieces
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 4 cups vegetable stock
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Feel free to swap out any veggies based on what’s in your kitchen or your family’s preferences! For instance, you can use bell peppers or zucchini for a different twist.
Step-by-step instructions
- In a large pot, brown 1 pound of ground beef over medium heat. Be sure to drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion, celery, and sliced carrots to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the cut green beans, diced tomatoes, corn, diced potatoes, and vegetable stock.
- Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. Serve hot and enjoy!
How to serve Hamburger Soup
This soup is best served hot, straight from the pot. For a more delightful presentation, consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread, a simple green salad, or even some warm cornbread for a comforting meal that’ll please any crowd.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your leftover hamburger soup fresh:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave some space for expansion!
- Reheating: Simply thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stovetop or microwave. Always check to ensure it’s heated thoroughly to a safe temperature.
Tricks for success
Some practical tips to elevate your hamburger soup experience:
- Brown the beef well: Getting a nice sear on the beef adds layers of flavor to your broth.
- Don’t rush the veggies: Taking the time to sauté them properly will enhance their flavors.
- Adjust seasonings: Always taste before serving. You might find you want a little extra salt, or perhaps more Italian seasoning for added zest.
Creative twists
This hamburger soup can morph into various iterations!
- Spicy Version: Add a dash of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Mexican Twist: Incorporate black beans and corn, seasoning with cumin and chili powder for a Southwest flair.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a flavorful plant-based meal.
Your questions answered
1. How long does it take to prepare?
The total time for preparing and cooking this soup is about 1 hour.
2. Can I substitute the ground beef?
Absolutely! You can use turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground options for a lighter or vegetarian version.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Feel free to experiment and make it your own. Happy cooking!
Hamburger Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, brown 1 pound of ground beef over medium heat. Be sure to drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion, celery, and sliced carrots to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the cut green beans, diced tomatoes, corn, diced potatoes, and vegetable stock.
- Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary. Serve hot and enjoy!
