If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting meal that’s quick to prepare, this Easy Hamburger Soup is the perfect recipe! Packed with ground beef, vegetables, and flavorful broth, this soup is a delicious one-pot meal ideal for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. It’s simple to make, using basic ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 5 cups beef broth
- 16 ounces diced tomatoes, with juice
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 3 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 bag (about 10 ounces) frozen corn
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat from the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped celery, carrots, and onion to the browned ground beef. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes, or until they begin to soften and the onions become translucent.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Broth
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, beef broth, and ketchup. Mix everything together to combine the flavors.
Step 4: Season the Soup
Add the dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the vegetables to become tender and the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Add the Frozen Corn
Once the soup has simmered and the vegetables are soft, stir in the frozen corn. Let the soup cook for an additional 5 minutes until the corn is heated through.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve with crusty bread or crackers. Enjoy this delicious, hearty meal with family and friends!
Cooking Notes:
- Ground Beef Tip: For a leaner version, you can use ground turkey or chicken in place of ground beef. Just be sure to season the soup well to maintain a rich flavor.
- Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, green beans, or peas. This is a versatile soup, so you can use what you have on hand.
- Thicker Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, add diced potatoes or pasta, or cook the soup a little longer to reduce the liquid.
Variations:
1. Spicy Hamburger Soup
Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick. You can also use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef for added flavor.
2. Cheesy Hamburger Soup
For a creamy and cheesy version, stir in 1-2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese at the end of cooking. You can also add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to make it richer.
3. Low-Carb Hamburger Soup
To make this soup low-carb, omit the carrots and corn, and add more low-carb vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or cauliflower. The soup will still be hearty and delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes! This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
A: Absolutely! You can use fresh or canned corn instead of frozen. If using fresh corn, add it with the other vegetables in Step 2 to ensure it cooks through.
Q: How can I thicken the soup?
A: To thicken the soup, you can add diced potatoes or pasta, or mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the soup. Let it simmer for a few more minutes until it thickens.
This Easy Hamburger Soup is a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for feeding a hungry family. The combination of flavorful ground beef, tender vegetables, and rich broth makes this soup a comforting dish for any time of the year. Best of all, it’s made in one pot and can be easily customized with your favorite ingredients.
Give this recipe a try and enjoy a warm, hearty bowl of deliciousness tonight!
