Description
This hearty Hamburger Soup is a comforting and nutritious meal, perfect for cool evenings. Packed with ground beef, fresh vegetables, and savory herbs, it’s an easy one-pot dish that the whole family will love. Customize it with your favorite veggies for a truly personalized soup experience.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Preparation
Step 1: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
Step 2: Drain any excess fat from the pot to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
Step 3: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, potatoes, carrots, green beans, and Italian seasoning. Make sure everything is well combined.
Step 5: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
Step 7: If using corn, add it to the pot during the last 5 minutes of simmering. This prevents the corn from becoming overcooked.
Step 8: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. A sprinkle of shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream can also be added.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Hamburger Soup is a versatile and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s easy to customize with whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a great way to use up leftover produce. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly option that’s packed with protein and nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or grilled cheese sandwiches for a complete meal.
- Top with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for added richness.
- Add a side salad for a lighter option.
Tips
- Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or zucchini.
- For a richer flavor, use bone broth instead of regular beef broth.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To make it ahead, prepare the soup and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to serve.
- If you want a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) during the last few minutes of cooking.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Information (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 700mg
Conclusion
Hamburger Soup is a delicious and comforting meal that’s easy to make and customize. With its hearty combination of ground beef, vegetables, and savory broth, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
- Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef. It’s a leaner option that still provides plenty of protein.
- Can I freeze this soup?
- Yes, Hamburger Soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
- Absolutely! Brown the ground beef on the stovetop, then transfer it to a slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- What can I add to make the soup spicier?
- You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or a chopped jalapeño to give the soup some heat.
- Can I use different types of beans?
- Yes, you can substitute other types of beans for the green beans. Kidney beans, pinto beans, or cannellini beans would all work well.
