Hamburger Soup
This hearty Hamburger Soup is a comforting dish that combines ground beef, fresh vegetables, and spices in a delicious tomato-based broth. It’s a perfect meal for cozy dinners or meal prep, delivering warmth and satisfaction in every bowl. The robust flavors and ease of preparation make this soup a staple for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with friends and family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This Hamburger Soup can be ready in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
- Flavorful and Satisfying: Loaded with beef and veggies, each spoonful bursts with flavor that warms the soul.
- Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices for a unique twist.
- Meal Prep Friendly: It stores well and can be frozen for future meals—perfect for those who love to plan ahead.
- Kid-Friendly: With its mild flavors, this soup is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Hamburger Soup effortlessly, gather the necessary tools before you start cooking. Having the right equipment will streamline your process and ensure great results.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot: Essential for cooking evenly and providing enough space for all ingredients to blend.
- Cutting board: Keeps your workspace organized while you chop vegetables safely.
- Sharp knife: Aids in quick chopping of ingredients, saving time during preparation.
Ingredients
This hearty Hamburger Soup is loaded with ground beef, vegetables, and spices in a rich tomato-based broth. Quick to make and incredibly satisfying, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep.
For the Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 5 cups beef broth
- 15 ounces diced tomatoes with juice
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Additional Vegetables
- 3 cups frozen mixed vegetables (corn, green beans, and carrots mix)
How to Make Hamburger Soup
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef and Aromatics
In a medium-sized soup pot over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the ground beef along with the diced onion, celery, and minced garlic. Cook until the beef is browned—make sure no pink remains. Break up the meat as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the pot to keep your soup lighter.
Step 2: Add Potatoes and Broth
Next, stir in the diced potatoes along with the beef broth. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring this mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes.
Step 3: Add Frozen Vegetables
After simmering the base for 10 minutes, stir in your frozen mixed vegetables. Continue simmering for an additional 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender and flavors meld beautifully together.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
Once cooked through, taste your Hamburger Soup. Adjust seasonings by adding more salt or pepper if needed to enhance flavor.
Step 5: Serve
Ladle the warm soup into bowls. For added flavor, sprinkle some Parmesan cheese or shredded cheese on top before serving! Enjoy your delicious creation!
How to Serve Hamburger Soup
Hamburger Soup is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a cozy evening with friends, these suggestions will help you elevate your meal.
Topping Suggestions
- Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan adds a nice, nutty flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or basil can brighten up the dish.
- Croutons: Crunchy croutons provide texture and extra flavor to each spoonful.
Accompaniments
- Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread pairs perfectly for dipping.
- Salad: A fresh side salad balances the heartiness of the soup.
- Sandwiches: Grilled cheese or ham sandwiches make for a great pairing.
How to Perfect Hamburger Soup
To achieve a delicious Hamburger Soup, consider these handy tips that will enhance its flavor and texture.
- Use Lean Beef: Opting for lean ground beef reduces grease and keeps the soup light.
- Add Fresh Vegetables: Including seasonal vegetables can add color and nutrition.
- Season Generously: Don’t shy away from seasoning; taste as you go to find the perfect balance.
- Simmer Longer: Letting the soup simmer longer allows flavors to meld beautifully.
- Include Beans: Adding beans boosts protein and fiber while making the soup more filling.
Best Side Dishes for Hamburger Soup
Pairing your Hamburger Soup with complementary side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the soup’s rich broth; simply butter and toast slices with garlic.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds crunch and freshness that contrasts nicely with the warm soup.
- Stuffed Peppers: These hearty peppers filled with rice and meat complement the soup’s flavors well.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread provides a delightful contrast to the savory soup.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges make a satisfying side that echoes the potatoes in the soup.
- Grilled Veggies: Lightly seasoned grilled vegetables add a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with Hamburger Soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Hamburger Soup, it’s essential to steer clear of common pitfalls that can affect flavor and texture.
- Skipping the browning step: Not browning the ground beef properly can lead to a bland soup. Make sure to cook until it’s well-browned for deeper flavors.
- Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking frozen mixed vegetables for too long can make them mushy. Add them towards the end of cooking to maintain their texture.
- Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasonings can result in a bland soup. Always sample your soup before serving and tweak salt and pepper as needed.
- Not using enough broth: Using insufficient broth may yield a thick soup rather than a hearty one. Stick to the recommended amount or add more for a thinner consistency.
- Forgetting about leftovers: Leaving leftovers uncovered in the fridge can dry them out. Store them in airtight containers for optimal freshness.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Hamburger Soup in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Hamburger Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with the date.
Reheating Hamburger Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer serving portions into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot and heat over medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Hamburger Soup in advance?
Yes, Hamburger Soup is great for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freeze it for later.
What vegetables work best in Hamburger Soup?
You can use any mix of vegetables like carrots, peas, or bell peppers along with your frozen mixed vegetables.
Is there a way to make this Hamburger Soup healthier?
Absolutely! Opt for lean ground beef or turkey, and add extra veggies to boost nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
How do I customize my Hamburger Soup?
Feel free to adjust spices or add beans for extra protein. You can also top with cheese or fresh herbs for added flavor!
What should I serve with Hamburger Soup?
Pair it with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy!
Final Thoughts
This delightful Hamburger Soup is perfect for cozy dinners and versatile enough for meal prep. With its rich flavors and endless customization options, you’ll find yourself making this recipe again and again. Try adding your favorite veggies or toppings to create your own unique version!
Hamburger Soup
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Makes approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in a warm bowl of Hamburger Soup, a delightful blend of ground beef, fresh vegetables, and savory spices simmered in a rich tomato-based broth. This hearty dish is perfect for cozy nights and busy weeknights alike, taking just 35 minutes from start to finish. With its robust flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s not only satisfying but also a fantastic option for meal prep. Customize it with your favorite veggies and spices for a personal touch that will please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 stalk celery, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 5 cups beef broth
- 15 ounces diced tomatoes with juice
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 3 cups frozen mixed vegetables (corn, green beans, carrots)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large soup pot over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add ground beef, onion, celery, and garlic; brown the beef while breaking it up.
- Drain excess fat and add potatoes, beef broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in frozen mixed vegetables; continue simmering for an additional 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender.
- Taste and adjust seasonings before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
