Easy Hamburger Soup Recipe
This Easy Hamburger Soup is a hearty, comforting dish made with ground beef, vegetables, and a flavorful broth. It’s simple to prepare, budget-friendly, and perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients (Serves 6-8)
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for cooking)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium potato, peeled and diced (optional)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth (or chicken/vegetable broth)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup frozen peas or green beans (optional)
- 1/2 cup uncooked pasta or rice (optional, for a heartier soup)
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Crusty bread or crackers
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked (about 5-7 minutes). Drain any excess fat.
- If your ground beef is very lean, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil for cooking.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
- Add Broth and Seasoning:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add Potatoes and Optional Ingredients:
- Add the diced potato (if using) and uncooked pasta or rice (if desired). Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes and pasta/rice are tender.
- Add Frozen Vegetables:
- Stir in the frozen peas or green beans and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until heated through.
- Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
Tips for the Best Hamburger Soup
- Meat Options:
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives for a lighter version.
- Customize Your Veggies:
- Use whatever vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini, corn, spinach, or bell peppers.
- Thickness Preference:
- For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes with a fork or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).
- Make It Ahead:
- This soup gets even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezer-Friendly:
- Let the soup cool completely, then freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Variations
- Low-Carb Hamburger Soup:
- Skip the potatoes, pasta, or rice, and add more low-carb veggies like zucchini or cauliflower.
- Cheesy Hamburger Soup:
- Stir in 1-2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese at the end for a rich, creamy twist.
- Spicy Version:
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a little heat.
- Hearty Stew Style:
- Use barley or lentils instead of pasta or rice for a thicker, stew-like texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this Easy Hamburger Soup with:
- Crusty Bread: Garlic bread or a baguette for dipping.
- Salad: A fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Crackers: Serve with saltines or oyster crackers for a classic touch.
This Easy Hamburger Soup is a versatile, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s great for meal prep or feeding a hungry family. It’s warm, hearty, and full of comforting flavors—perfect for chilly days or any time you’re craving something satisfying! 🍲🍞🥕
