Hamburger soup is a comforting, hearty meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. It’s packed with ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a rich broth that warms you from the inside out. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and budget-friendly, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or meal prepping. If you’ve ever wondered how do you make hamburger soup? — you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through a simple, tasty recipe along with some handy tips to make your soup extra special.
What You’ll Need: Ingredients for Hamburger Soup
Here’s a basic list of ingredients to get you started on your hamburger soup journey:
– 1 pound ground beef (90% lean is a great choice to avoid greasy soup)
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 ribs celery, thinly sliced
– 1 large russet potato, peeled and diced into 1/2-inch cubes
– 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
– 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
– 6 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and garlic powder)
– 1/2 cup frozen corn
– 1/2 cup green beans (fresh or frozen)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for sautéing
Feel free to customize your soup with other vegetables like zucchini, peas, or bell peppers to add more flavor and nutrition.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Hamburger Soup
1. Brown the Beef and Sauté the Veggies
Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-6 minutes until the vegetables soften. Then add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
2. Add Tomato Ingredients and Seasonings
Next, stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and Italian seasoning. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
3. Pour in the Broth and Add Potatoes
Add the beef broth and diced potatoes to the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Add Corn and Green Beans
Once the potatoes are soft, stir in the corn and green beans. Cook for another 5 minutes to heat the vegetables through. Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Sprinkle with fresh parsley if you like, ladle into bowls, and serve hot. This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple side salad.
Tips for the Perfect Hamburger Soup
– Use lean ground beef to keep the soup flavorful without excess grease. If you use fattier beef, drain the fat after browning.
– Cut vegetables into similar sizes so they cook evenly.
– Add salt at the end of cooking to avoid over-seasoning, especially if your broth is already salty.
– Customize your veggies! Add green beans, peas, corn, or zucchini to make the soup your own.
– Make it ahead: Hamburger soup tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
– For a quicker version, you can add pasta instead of potatoes, cooking it directly in the soup. Just be aware pasta may get mushy if reheated.
Why Hamburger Soup Is a Weeknight Winner
Hamburger soup is a classic comfort food that’s not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. It’s a one-pot meal that combines protein, veggies, and carbs in a flavorful broth, making it a balanced and satisfying dinner. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and easy to prepare, which is perfect for busy families or anyone looking for a quick, nutritious meal.
You can easily double the recipe to have leftovers for the week or freeze portions for future meals. It’s also a great way to use up vegetables you have on hand, reducing food waste while creating something tasty.
Hamburger soup is a simple, hearty dish that anyone can make with just a few ingredients and minimal effort. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers comfort and flavor in every bowl. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ready to make your own? Gather your ingredients and start cooking!