This hamburger soup recipe showcases the versatility of using ground beef in soup, allowing the meat to meld with fresh vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and celery while absorbing a robust blend of herbs and spices.
Each spoonful delivers layers of hearty flavor, proving that soup recipes made with hamburger are a delicious, budget-friendly way to enjoy a full, satisfying meal.
For me, hamburger meat soup represents the perfect fusion of simplicity and comfort it’s a quick, one-pot wonder that embodies the spirit of homemade cooking and transforms everyday ingredients into an extraordinary dish.
Ultimately, this hamburger soup not only nourishes and delights but also serves as an ideal canvas for personalization, whether you prefer adding extra vegetables or a touch of spice, making it a true champion among burger soup recipes.
Equipments for
Having the right equipment is essential for preparing a consistently delicious hamburger soup that is both easy to follow and efficient.
- Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven: For even heat and ample room for all ingredients.
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: To dice vegetables uniformly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate seasoning and liquid measurements.
- Wooden Spoon or Ladle: For stirring and serving.
- Optional: Immersion blender (for a smoother texture, if desired)..
With these essential tools at hand, you’ll be well-equipped to create a bowl of hamburger soup that is packed with flavor and perfectly balanced in texture.
Ingredients for
The ingredients in this hamburger soup recipe are carefully selected to combine the rich flavor of ground beef with a variety of fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices for a dish that is both hearty and budget-friendly.
For the Base:
1 lb ground beef (hamburger meat) – preferably lean
1 large onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
For the Broth and Flavor:
6 cups beef broth (or water with beef bouillon for added depth)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – with their juice
1 tablespoon tomato paste – for extra richness
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 bay leaf
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick
For Finishing:
Fresh parsley, chopped – for garnish
Optional: A squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors
By gathering these wholesome, flavorful ingredients, you create a delicious foundation for hamburger soup that combines protein, hearty vegetables, and a savory broth for a satisfying meal.
Instructions to
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a hearty and flavorful hamburger soup that is both easy to prepare and wonderfully satisfying.
Brown the Ground Beef:
– In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, add the ground beef over medium-high heat.
– Cook the beef until browned, breaking it into small crumbles with your spoon; drain any excess fat if necessary.
Sauté the Vegetables:
– Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot with the browned beef.
– Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent.
Add Potatoes and Flavor Base:
– Stir in the diced potatoes, then add the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and tomato paste.
– Sprinkle in the dried thyme, oregano, and add the bay leaf. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Incorporate the Broth:
– Pour in 6 cups of beef broth, stirring to combine all ingredients.
– Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 25–30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Final Adjustments:
– Remove the bay leaf from the soup.
– Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
– (Optional) For a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup, then stir it back in.
Garnish and Serve:
– Ladle the hot hamburger soup into bowls.
– Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
– Serve immediately with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
By carefully following these steps, you’ll create a satisfying bowl of hamburger soup that is rich in flavor, full of hearty ingredients, and perfect for a comforting meal on any day.
Allergen Information for
Before preparing this hamburger soup, please review the allergen information to ensure it meets your dietary needs.
- Beef: Contains ground beef; not suitable for those with meat allergies.
- Gluten: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, provided that the broth and canned tomatoes are gluten-free.
- Other: Check all seasonings if you have sensitivities to any specific ingredients.
By considering these allergen details, you can adjust the recipe as needed to accommodate dietary restrictions while still delivering a delicious and satisfying hamburger soup..
Substitutions for
This versatile hamburger soup recipe is adaptable with numerous substitutions to suit various tastes and dietary preferences.
- Protein Variation: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Vegetable Boost: Add additional vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans.
- Broth Variations: Use chicken broth or vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a different flavor profile.
- Spice Adjustments: Increase or decrease red pepper flakes to control the heat.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free broth and canned tomatoes to ensure the dish remains gluten-free (most of the ingredients are naturally so).
By embracing these substitutions, you can create a unique version of hamburger soup that meets your dietary needs and personal flavor preferences while remaining hearty and satisfying.
Variations of
Experiment with these creative variations to give your hamburger soup a personal twist while preserving its comforting, robust character.
- Cheesy Hamburger Soup: Stir in a cup of shredded cheddar cheese at the end for a richer, creamy finish.
- Spicy Hamburger Stew: Add a can of diced green chilies or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Vegetable-Heavy: Incorporate more seasonal vegetables such as corn, peas, or spinach for added nutrition.
- Slow Cooker Version: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and let cook on low for 6–8 hours for an even more tender result.
- Casserole Twist: Layer the soup ingredients with cooked pasta and extra cheese, then bake into a hearty casserole.
- Fusion Variation: Top with a dollop of sour cream and crushed tortilla chips for a Tex-Mex inspired finish.
These variations allow you to tailor your hamburger soup to different tastes and occasions, ensuring a versatile and consistently delightful dish.
Notes on
Keep these practical notes in mind to ensure your hamburger soup turns out perfectly every time, with balanced flavors and satisfying textures.
- Do not overcook the vegetables; simmer until just tender to retain their natural texture.
- Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent ingredients from sticking to the bottom.
- Taste the soup in the final minutes and adjust seasonings gradually.
- For an even thicker soup, simmer uncovered toward the end to let excess liquid evaporate.
- This soup often tastes even better the next day, once the flavors have melded, so consider making a double batch for leftovers.
By following these notes, you’ll enhance the overall quality of your hamburger soup, ensuring a dish that is both comforting and robust in flavor.
Health Benefits of
Hamburger soup not only warms you up but also offers several nutritional benefits, making it a wholesome option for a balanced meal.
- Ground Beef: Provides a rich source of high-quality protein, iron, and B vitamins for energy and muscle repair.
- Vegetables: Carrots, celery, onions, and potatoes contribute fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants that support overall health.
- Broth: A nutrient-dense liquid that helps keep you hydrated and imparts essential minerals.
- Herbs and Spices: Enhance flavor without adding excessive calories, and many have anti-inflammatory properties.
By combining these nutrient-rich ingredients, your hamburger soup offers a balanced and satisfying meal that supports a healthy diet while delivering robust flavors.
Nutrition Information
Below is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving to give you a clear understanding of how this hamburger soup fits into your balanced meal plan.
- Calories: 350–400 kcal
- Protein: 25–30 g
- Carbohydrates: 30–35 g (including fiber: 4–6 g)
- Fats: 15–20 g
- Vitamins & Minerals: Rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, and potassium
With this nutritional overview, you can savor each bowl of hamburger soup knowing it delivers a balanced mix of energy, protein, and vital nutrients to fuel your day.
Nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredient brands and measurements used. For more precise information, refer to the labels of your chosen ingredients.
Cooking Tips for
Follow these practical cooking tips to ensure your hamburger soup turns out consistently delicious, with every ingredient playing its part in creating a harmonious, hearty dish.
- Brown the ground beef thoroughly before adding vegetables for extra depth of flavor.
- Ensure that the broth is hot when adding it to the meat and vegetables to maintain a steady simmer.
- Stir regularly during simmering to prevent sticking and promote even cooking.
- If the soup is too thick, add a little extra warm broth or water; if too thin, simmer uncovered.
- Taste the soup frequently and adjust seasonings gradually as it cooks.
- Consider letting the soup sit for 10 minutes off the heat after cooking to allow flavors to meld.
By incorporating these cooking tips, you’ll master a hamburger soup that’s consistently flavorful, perfectly textured, and ideal for a comforting meal any day of the week.
Storage Advice for
Proper storage is essential to preserve the delicious flavors and textures of your hamburger soup for future enjoyment.
- Refrigeration: Transfer leftover soup to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, to avoid overcooking the vegetables or beef.
- Freezing: If needed, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Labeling: Mark containers with the preparation date to ensure optimal freshness.
By following these storage practices, you can enjoy your hamburger soup as delicious leftovers without compromising on its hearty flavor or comforting texture.
Serving Suggestions for
Enhance your meal experience with creative serving suggestions that complement your hamburger soup and turn it into a complete, satisfying dinner.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of warm crusty bread or garlic bread for mopping up the flavorful broth.
- Side Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the rich flavors.
- Mashed Potatoes: Spoon the soup over creamy mashed potatoes for an extra hearty meal.
- Rice: Serve over a bed of steamed rice for a filling, comforting dish.
- Cheese: Top with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Parmesan for extra richness.
- Toppings: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for color and freshness.
With these serving suggestions, your hamburger soup becomes a complete meal that delights the palate and provides a comforting, balanced dining experience.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter any issues while making your hamburger soup, these troubleshooting tips will help you quickly correct course and achieve the perfect consistency and flavor.
- Issue: Beef isn’t tender enough.
Solution: Ensure you cook the soup long enough on a gentle simmer; consider slow cooking for additional tenderness. - Issue: Vegetables are overcooked or mushy.
Solution: Adjust the cooking time and add more liquid if needed to maintain the desired texture. - Issue: The soup is too thick.
Solution: Stir in extra warm broth or water until you achieve your preferred consistency. - Issue: The soup tastes bland.
Solution: Gradually add more salt, pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors. - Issue: Overcooked beef.
Solution: Avoid excessive simmering; check for doneness periodically and remove from heat once tender.
By applying these troubleshooting tips, you can confidently resolve any issues that arise, ensuring your hamburger soup is always delicious, well-balanced, and perfectly satisfying.
FAQ About
Yes; ground beef is a main ingredient in this recipe and creates a rich, hearty soup.
Simmer for about 25–30 minutes to ensure the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld.
Yes, browning the beef adds flavor and enhances the overall depth of the soup.
Onions, carrots, celery, and potatoes are ideal, though you can add others as desired.
Absolutely; the soup tastes even better after a few hours as the flavors continue to meld.
Yes, provided that the broth and any additional ingredients are gluten-free.
Add extra liquid if too thick or simmer uncovered to reduce and thicken the soup.
Yes, the recipe can be adapted for a slow cooker by combining all ingredients and cooking on low for 6–8 hours.
Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for extra heartiness.
Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months; reheat gently on the stovetop.
By addressing these frequently asked questions, you’ll have the knowledge needed to prepare and enjoy your hamburger soup with confidence, ensuring a dish that is both comforting and full of flavor.
Footnotes for
In conclusion, this hamburger soup recipe transforms simple ground beef and fresh vegetables into a hearty, soul-warming dish that is as budget-friendly as it is delicious.
Every step from browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables to gradually adding broth for optimal creaminess has been designed to create a layered and satisfying flavor profile that will make this hamburger soup a go-to meal for chilly days and busy weeknights alike.
Embrace the simplicity of this recipe, experiment with your favorite vegetables and seasonings, and share this comforting bowl of homemade soup with family and friends for a meal that truly embodies the spirit of home cooking.
For more inventive recipes and culinary inspiration, Navigate to our Main Dishes section, or visit Trustedrecipe, www.spendwithpennies.com or explore additional ideas on Food Network. Thank you for choosing this recipe may every spoonful bring comfort, joy, and a taste of home to your table!
