Okay, friends, let me tell you about the Hamburger Soup Recipe that’s been a staple in my family for generations. Honestly, this isn’t just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Think of it as the simpler, more comforting cousin of chili, but instead of spending hours simmering, it’s ready in under an hour! I remember my grandma making this on chilly autumn evenings, and the aroma alone was enough to make us all practically drool. It’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights, and it’s one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day. Seriously, you have to try this!

What is Hamburger soup?

Hamburger Soup is, at its heart, a hearty and nourishing soup made with ground beef (hence the “hamburger”), loads of veggies, and a flavorful broth. Think of it as a deconstructed hamburger, but instead of a bun, you get a cozy, comforting liquid embracing all the ingredients. It’s essentially a one-pot wonder, perfect for using up any leftover veggies you have lurking in the fridge. The beauty of it is in its simplicity and adaptability. You can customize it to your liking with your favorite vegetables and spices. For me, it’s pure nostalgia – a reminder of cozy nights and family dinners. It’s really just a family favorite.

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Oh, where do I even begin? This Hamburger Soup Recipe isn’t just another recipe; it’s a treasure. What I love most about it is how incredibly flavorful it is without requiring a ton of effort. The combination of browned ground beef, tender vegetables, and a rich tomato-based broth is simply divine. It’s the kind of flavor that makes you want to curl up on the couch with a big bowl and a good book.

• Flavor:What is the depth of flavor? Browning beef really makes a difference, and the blend of herbs and spices perfectly complements each other. What are vegetables? I always add a bay leaf, it’s my secret weapon!
• Simplicity:Is this recipe easy to make? I don’t have much time to cook, but I do want a good meal. This is the perfect recipe. If you have everything in a pot and let it simmer – that’s it!
• Cost- The ingredients are budget-friendly and readily available. You probably have most of them in your pantry already. I often raid my freezer for frozen veggies to keep costs down.
• Versatility: You can easily adapt this recipe to your liking. Add different vegetables, change up the spices, or even throw in some pasta or rice. I’ve even added a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies for a little kick – so good! If you’re a fan of creamy tomato soup, this will be a homerun, this is basically a hearty, beefy tomato soup with veggies.

What is more satisfying than tomato soup? I promise, this recipe will become a family favorite in no time!

How do I make Hamburger soup?

Quick Overview

How can I make Hamburger soup? First, you’ll brown ground beef and then sauté some onions and garlic for extra flavor. After that, you’ll toss in your favorite veggies, add some broth and tomato sauce, and let it all go. What is the best way to simmer vegetables until tender. Is this a one pot wonder? The advantage of this method is that it’s super straightforward and requires minimal cleanup. The flavors meld together beautifully as it simmers.

Ingredients

For the main soup:

• I prefer lean ground beef to avoid excess grease.
• 1 large onion, chopped: Yellow or white onion works best.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: 1 clove garlic Freshly minced garlic adds the best flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch.
• I use low-sodium beef broth to control the salt level.
• Can I use crushed tomatoes?
• 1 cup chopped carrots: Baby carrot is a convenient option.
• 1 cup chopped celery: Celery adds a nice subtle flavor.
• I like using Yukon gold potatoes. 1 cup chopped.
• 1 cup frozen corn: Adds a touch of sweetness.
• Can you use frozen green beans?
• What is the best way to add dried oregano to any dish?
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a sweet and aromatic flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Adjust to your taste.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground pepper is best.
• Is it necessary to remove bay leaf before serving?

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease – nobody wants greasy soup! I always do this over medium-high heat so that the beef gets a really good sear.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with ground beef. Sauté onions until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for building flavor! If you like, you can use olive oil.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Tomatoes

What is the recipe for beef broth and crushed tomatoes? Where does magic start to happen? I often use chicken broth if I don’t have beef broth on hand, and it still turns out great!

Step 4: Add the Vegetables and Seasonings

Add chopped carrots, celery, potatoes, frozen corn, and frozen green beans to the pot. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, pepper, and bay leaf (if using). Give everything a good stir to make sure the seasonings are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes. When the vegetables are tender, cook them for a few minutes. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. I usually let it simmer for an hour or more when I have the time.

Step 6: Serve

Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or fresh parsley. I love adding a dollop of sour cream – it adds a nice tanginess!

What should I serve it with?

Hamburger Soup is a meal in itself, but it’s even better when paired with the right side. What are some of my favorite serving suggestions?

What is a quick lunch? Serve with crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches for dipping. The bread is perfect for soaking up all the delicious broth.

For a Cozy Dinner:Serve with a side salad and cornbread. How does cornbread add sweetness to soup?

For a Potluck:Bring a big pot of Hamburger Soup with sour cream, shredded cheese, and grilled onions. What is the best combination of green onions and hot sauce? What are some good potluck recipes?

For meal preparation: How do I prepareWhat is a good soup for meal prep? What is the best way to make a quick and easy lunch or dinner? Throughout the week. My family loves having this ready to go in the fridge.

I also love topping it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a swirl of pesto for extra flavor and visual appeal. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings and sides to find your perfect combination! You can also try topping with oyster crackers.

Top Tips for Perfecting Your Hamburger Soup

Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks for making the best Hamburger Soup possible. Here are some of my top tips:

Browning the Beef: Don’t skip this step! Browning the beef adds a depth of flavor that you just can’t get otherwise. Make sure to use a large pot or Dutch oven so that the beef has enough room to brown properly.

Sautéing the Aromatics: Sautéing the onions and garlic before adding the other ingredients is another key step for building flavor. Cook them until they’re softened and fragrant, but be careful not to burn them.

Using Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh herbs on hand, use them! They add a brightness and flavor that dried herbs just can’t match. Add them towards the end of the cooking time to preserve their flavor.

Adjusting the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water) to the pot during the last few minutes of cooking. Stir until the soup thickens.

Adding Pasta or Rice: For a heartier soup, add cooked pasta or rice during the last 15 minutes of cooking time. I like using small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni.

Customizing the Vegetables: Feel free to add any vegetables you like to this soup. Some other great options include zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms.

Spice it Up: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of Red Pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the pot. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste.

I’ve also learned that using a good quality beef broth really makes a difference in the overall flavor of the soup. So, don’t skimp on the broth! Trust me, these tips will help you make the best Hamburger Soup you’ve ever had!

Storing and Reheating Tips

This Hamburger Soup is perfect for making ahead of time or for meal prepping. Here’s how to store and reheat it:

Refrigerator Storage: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Freezer Instructions: Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat the soup in a pot on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to stir it every minute or so to ensure even heating.

Glaze Timing Advice: Since this recipe doesn’t involve a glaze, you don’t need to worry about any glaze specific timing advice!

I often double or triple this recipe so that I have plenty to freeze for later. It’s such a lifesaver on busy nights when I don’t have time to cook. Just pop it out of the freezer, reheat, and dinner is served! I found that the quality stays really well when frozen, you won’t lose any of the flavor. Just make sure that it cools completely before freezing it!

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

Well, there you have it – my family’s cherished Hamburger Soup Recipe. I truly believe this recipe is special because it’s so simple yet so satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together and creates lasting memories. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover veggies and save money on groceries. If you enjoy this recipe, be sure to check out my other soup recipes, like my Creamy Tomato Soup or my Hearty Chicken Noodle Soup. They’re all family favorites that I know you’ll love. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Please leave a comment below and let me know what you think, and don’t forget to rate the recipe. And, of course, share your own variations – I’m always looking for new ideas!