Hearty Hamburger Soup Recipe

This Hearty Hamburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food that combines savory ground beef, tender vegetables, and rich broth into one satisfying meal. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want something wholesome and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of beef and vegetables creates a balanced meal in a bowl that will warm you from the inside out!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Ground Beef: The star of the show, providing rich flavor and hearty protein. Lean ground beef works best to avoid excess grease.
• Olive Oil: Just a touch to help brown the meat and vegetables, adding a subtle richness.
• Onion: Creates a flavor foundation. Don’t skip this – it adds incredible depth to the soup.
• Celery: Adds texture and a subtle flavor that enhances the broth.
• Garlic: Provides that unmistakable aroma and flavor kick that makes this soup irresistible.
• Potatoes: They absorb all the delicious flavors while adding heartiness and substance.
• Beef Broth: The backbone of any good soup. Use low-sodium if you’re watching salt intake.
• Diced Tomatoes: Brings acidity and brightness to balance the richness of the beef.
• Tomato Sauce: Creates a silky, slightly thicker consistency while boosting the tomato flavor.
• Worcestershire Sauce: A secret weapon that adds depth and umami. Don’t skip this!
• Italian Seasoning: A convenient blend of herbs that perfectly complements the beef and tomatoes.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple but essential for bringing all the flavors together.
• Frozen Mixed Vegetables: A convenient time-saver that adds color, nutrition, and flavor.

Variations

Want to customize your hamburger soup? Here are some delicious options:

• Pasta Power: Add 1 cup of small pasta shapes like macaroni or shells during the last 8-10 minutes of cooking.
• Spice It Up: Include 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for heat lovers.
• Bean Boost: Stir in a can of drained kidney or black beans for extra protein and fiber.
• Grain Addition: Toss in 1/2 cup of barley or rice with an extra cup of broth for a heartier texture.
• Cheese Lover’s Version: Top each bowl with shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese for a melty finishing touch.

How to Make Hamburger Soup

Step 1: Brown the Meat and Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a medium-sized soup pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef, onion, celery, and garlic, cooking until the meat is completely browned with no pink remaining. Drain off any excess fat for a cleaner, less greasy soup.

Step 2: Add Base Ingredients

Add the diced potatoes, beef broth, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir everything together well to combine all those wonderful flavors. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables. There’s no need to thaw them first – they’ll cook perfectly right from frozen and help cool the soup slightly so it doesn’t overcook.

Step 4: Complete the Cooking

Continue simmering the soup for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. This final cooking time allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully while ensuring every component is perfectly cooked.

How to Serve

This hamburger soup is a meal in itself, but these serving suggestions take it to the next level:

Perfect Pairings

Serve with crusty bread, cornbread, or warm dinner rolls for dipping in that flavorful broth.

Topping Bar

Set out shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped fresh herbs, and croutons so everyone can customize their bowl.

Complete Meal

Pair with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a perfectly balanced dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store cooled soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavor actually improves after a day as the ingredients have more time to meld together.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully! Allow it to cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Leave some room for expansion and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat until hot throughout, or microwave in a covered container, stirring occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Hamburger Soup is the definition of homemade comfort in a bowl. Simple ingredients transform into something truly special through this straightforward cooking process. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a weeknight or meal prepping for yourself, this versatile soup will become a trusted recipe in your collection. Give it a try tonight – your kitchen will smell amazing, and your taste buds will thank you!

Print