Hamburger soup is a comforting, hearty meal that’s easy to make and perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re new to cooking or just looking for a quick, tasty dinner, this recipe will guide you through making a flavorful soup packed with ground beef, fresh vegetables, and rich broth. Let’s dive into how to make hamburger soup that your whole family will love!
What You’ll Need
Here’s a list of the basic ingredients for a classic hamburger soup:
– 1 pound lean ground beef (90% lean is great to avoid greasiness)
– 1/2 medium onion, diced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen green beans, chopped
– 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted adds extra flavor)
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste (for added richness)
– 32 ounces beef broth or stock
– 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Worcestershire sauce for a savory boost
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the Beef and Sauté Vegetables
In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces. Once browned, drain any excess fat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add Tomato Paste and Tomatoes
Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes until it darkens slightly, which deepens the flavor. Then add the diced tomatoes with their juices.
- Add Potatoes and Broth
Toss in the diced potatoes and pour in the beef broth. Season with oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Simmer Until Tender
Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Add Green Beans and Corn
Stir in the green beans and corn, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are heated through but still crisp.
- Final Seasoning
Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed. For extra depth, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce if you like.
- Serve Hot
Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it warm, perfect with crusty bread or a side salad.
Tips for the Best Hamburger Soup
– Use lean ground beef to avoid greasy soup, but if you use fattier beef, be sure to drain the fat well.
– Cut vegetables uniformly so they cook evenly.
– Add fresh vegetables instead of canned for better texture and flavor.
– Simmer gently to meld flavors without overcooking the veggies.
– Customize your soup by adding other veggies like peas, zucchini, or bell peppers.
– Make it ahead: Hamburger soup tastes even better the next day and freezes well for easy meals later.
– Adjust thickness by adding more broth if it’s too thick or a bit of tomato paste to thicken it up.
Why You’ll Love Hamburger Soup
This soup is not only comforting and filling but also budget-friendly and nutritious. It’s a one-pot meal that combines protein, vegetables, and carbs in a warm broth, making it ideal for busy weeknights or chilly days. Plus, it’s flexible-you can swap ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.
Hamburger soup is a timeless recipe that brings warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful. Try making it tonight and enjoy a cozy, homemade meal that’s sure to become a family favorite!