Hamburger Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that the whole family will love, then Hamburger Soup is just what you need! This easy recipe combines ground beef with hearty vegetables and rich tomato flavor, making it perfect for those busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something quick but satisfying. I adore this soup not only for its delicious taste but also for how simple it is to prepare—it’s a one-pot wonder that warms the heart and fills the belly!

Every time I make Hamburger Soup, it reminds me of chilly evenings spent gathered around the table with loved ones. The aroma fills the kitchen and brings everyone together. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies while still being incredibly tasty!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the flavors, and it’s a great way to introduce them to vegetables without any fuss.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this soup in advance and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer for later enjoyment.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to relax after dinner!
• Customizable Flavor: With simple ingredients, you can easily adjust seasonings to suit your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be delighted by how simple and wholesome these ingredients are! Each one plays a vital role in making this Hamburger Soup a comforting dish that everyone will enjoy.

For the Soup Base

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion (finely diced)
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Veggies

• 2 cups peeled and chopped Yukon yellow potatoes (chopped into small pieces (1/2-inch))
• 1 bag (16 oz) frozen mixed vegetables

For the Broth and Tomatoes

• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) beef broth
• 1 can (10 oz) condensed tomato soup
• 1 can (15 oz) petite diced tomatoes (do not drain)

For Seasoning

• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon dried basil

Variations

This Hamburger Soup recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version that still boasts great flavor.
• Add more greens: Throw in some spinach or kale for an extra nutritional boost and vibrant color.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give your soup a kick.
• Change up the veggies: Substitute fresh veggies like carrots or green beans if you prefer—or whatever’s in season!

How to Make Hamburger Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a soup pot over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef along with diced onion, minced garlic, and salt until no longer pink. This step is crucial because browning adds depth of flavor. Be sure to break up the meat into small crumbles as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess grease so your soup stays nice and healthy.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Broth

Next, toss in your chopped potatoes along with the beef broth, tomato soup, diced tomatoes (don’t drain those!), frozen mixed vegetables, Worcestershire sauce, parsley, and basil. Stir everything together well—this is where all those lovely flavors start coming together! Bring your mixture to a boil; once bubbling away happily, cover with a lid and reduce heat to medium-low. Let it simmer gently for at least 30 minutes so that all those wonderful flavors meld into something magical.

Step 3: Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Before serving up this hearty bowl of goodness, take a moment to taste your soup after it’s simmered. You might find it needs just a pinch more salt—this happens often with soups as they cook down. Adjusting seasoning is key to ensuring every spoonful is delightful!

Step 4: Store Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), feel free to freeze them for up to three months or store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. It makes for an easy lunch option later on!

Now grab that spoon and get ready to enjoy every warm bite of your delicious Hamburger Soup!

Pro Tips for Making Hamburger Soup

Making Hamburger Soup is a breeze, but these pro tips will help you elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use lean ground beef: Opting for lean ground beef will reduce the fat content in your soup, making it a healthier choice while still keeping it hearty and delicious.

• Add fresh herbs: Fresh parsley or basil can add a vibrant flavor to your soup. Simply toss in some chopped herbs right before serving for an extra layer of taste and freshness.

• Customize with vegetables: Feel free to swap out the frozen mixed vegetables for your favorites! Carrots, green beans, or corn can all make excellent additions and allow you to tailor the soup to your family’s preferences.

• Adjust thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup consistency, mash a few of the potatoes against the side of the pot after simmering. This will help thicken the broth without needing extra ingredients.

• Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and let it sit in the fridge overnight. The flavors will meld beautifully, making for a comforting meal when you’re short on time.

How to Serve Hamburger Soup

Serving Hamburger Soup can be just as delightful as making it. Here are some ideas to present this warming dish to your loved ones.

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Sprinkling chopped green onions adds a fresh crunch and a pop of color.
• Shredded cheese: A sprinkle of your favorite cheese on top can add creaminess and richness that complements the soup perfectly.
• Crushed crackers: For an added crunch, serve with crushed crackers on top—this brings both texture and flavor!

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Perfect for dipping, garlic bread pairs beautifully with Hamburger Soup and adds that comforting touch.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing balances out the hearty soup.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to the savory soup and makes for a satisfying side.
• Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli is both healthy and colorful, making it an excellent complement to this rich dish.

With these tips and serving ideas, your Hamburger Soup is sure to impress at any gathering! Enjoy every warm spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Hamburger Soup is perfect for meal prep! Its hearty ingredients and delicious flavors make it an excellent option for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Let’s dive into how you can store, freeze, and reheat this delightful dish.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days.
• Be sure to let the soup cool completely before sealing it in your storage container.

Freezing

• To freeze, transfer the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label each container with the date and contents.
• Hamburger Soup can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its delicious flavor!

Reheating

• For stovetop reheating, warm the soup in a pot over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally.
• If using a microwave, pour the desired amount into a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Always check that it’s heated evenly before serving.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this wonderful Hamburger Soup recipe!

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in Hamburger Soup?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and you’ll still have a delicious meal.

How long does Hamburger Soup last in the fridge?

Hamburger Soup can last up to 5 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This makes it a fantastic option for leftovers!

What vegetables can I add to Hamburger Soup?

Feel free to get creative! You can add diced carrots, bell peppers, or even kale to enhance the flavor and nutrition of your Hamburger Soup.

Can I make Hamburger Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or lentils for a hearty vegetarian version of this comforting soup.

Is Hamburger Soup easy to make?

Definitely! This recipe is straightforward and quick, taking only 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for busy cooks who want something delicious without spending all day in the kitchen!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Hamburger Soup brings warmth and comfort to your table just as it has to mine! It’s not only simple to prepare but also incredibly satisfying, making it a beloved recipe in my home. I encourage you to give it a try; you might find it becomes one of your family favorites too. Enjoy every spoonful!