Hamburger Soup Recipe

Looking for a quick and comforting dinner that’s both hearty and nutritious? This Hamburger Soup Recipe is the perfect choice. Made with ground beef, tender potatoes, mixed vegetables, and a savory tomato-based broth, it’s a family-friendly dish that comes together in under an hour. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight, a cozy weekend meal, or meal prepping ahead of time, this recipe is a simple and satisfying option that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• ½ onion (about ½ cup, chopped)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups beef broth
• 28 ounces diced tomatoes (1 large can, undrained)
• 6 ounces tomato paste (or 1 can condensed tomato soup)
• 2–3 potatoes (about 4 cups, peeled and diced)
• 2 teaspoons beef base or Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon Italian dressing mix (or 1 teaspoon salt, 1 ½ teaspoons oregano, ½ teaspoon pepper)
• 3 cups mixed vegetables (fresh or frozen)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, brown ground beef and onion, breaking up the meat with a meat chopper or wooden spoon until the beef is no longer pink and the onion is softened. Drain fat if desired.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute to release flavor.
3. Stir in beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, potatoes, beef base, and seasoning mix.
4. Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to simmer, cover, and cook for 10 minutes.
5. Add mixed vegetables and simmer for 12–15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and vegetables are fully cooked.
6. Serve hot with crusty bread or a fresh side salad.

Serving and Storage Tips

Hamburger Soup tastes best when served hot, paired with crusty bread, garlic toast, or even cornbread for dipping. It can also be served alongside a fresh green salad for a lighter meal. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, let the soup cool completely and transfer into freezer-safe containers or bags—it will last up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

Variations

1. Low-Carb Hamburger Soup – Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets or zucchini for a lighter, low-carb option.
2. Spicy Kick – Add diced jalapeños, chili flakes, or a splash of hot sauce to the broth for extra heat.
3. Different Proteins – Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, pork, or sausage for a unique twist.
4. Pasta or Rice Addition – Stir in small pasta shapes like macaroni or rice during the last 15 minutes of cooking for added heartiness.
5. Cheesy Version – Sprinkle shredded cheddar or parmesan over each bowl before serving for a creamy, cheesy finish.
6. Herb-Infused Soup – Add fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme at the end for a brighter flavor.
7. Slow Cooker Option – Brown the beef and onions first, then transfer all ingredients into a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

FAQs

1. Can I make Hamburger Soup ahead of time? – Yes, it stores and reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep.
2. Can I freeze Hamburger Soup? – Absolutely, freeze for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers.
3. What vegetables work best in this soup? – Carrots, peas, corn, green beans, and celery are great options.
4. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? – Yes, just chop about 4–5 medium fresh tomatoes.
5. Is it necessary to drain the ground beef? – It’s optional; draining reduces fat, but leaving it adds flavor.
6. How can I thicken the soup? – Mash some of the potatoes or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water).
7. Can I make this vegetarian? – Yes, replace beef with plant-based ground meat and use vegetable broth.
8. What sides go well with Hamburger Soup? – Crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or cornbread are excellent.
9. Can I cook this in an Instant Pot? – Yes, brown the beef first, then cook on high pressure for 10 minutes and quick-release.
10. How can I make it more kid-friendly? – Use smaller diced vegetables and add some shredded cheese on top.

This Hamburger Soup Recipe is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and packed with wholesome ingredients. With its rich tomato base, tender potatoes, and hearty ground beef, it makes a filling meal for any occasion. Plus, it’s versatile—you can swap in different vegetables, adjust seasonings to taste, or even add pasta or rice for variety. Simple, flavorful, and ready in just 45 minutes, this soup is sure to become a go-to family favorite.

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