Easy Hamburger Soup is a comforting and hearty dish packed with ground beef, vegetables, and a rich tomato broth. It’s an easy one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or chilly days. Made with simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen, this soup is both delicious and satisfying for the whole family.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 medium bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup frozen peas or green beans
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-6 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.
Step 3: Add the Broth and Tomatoes
Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and tomato sauce. Add the diced potatoes, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Cover and simmer the soup for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes and vegetables are tender.
Step 5: Add the Peas or Green Beans
Stir in the frozen peas or green beans and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes, or until the peas are heated through.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the Easy Hamburger Soup hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side. Enjoy!
Cook Notes
- Ground Beef: Use 80/20 ground beef for the best balance of flavor and moisture. Leaner beef can also be used if you prefer.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables like corn or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Broth: You can substitute chicken broth or vegetable broth if you prefer a slightly lighter flavor.
Variations
1. Spicy Hamburger Soup
Add 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño for a bit of heat.
2. Italian-Style Hamburger Soup
Add 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning and 1/4 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni) for an Italian twist.
3. Low-Carb Hamburger Soup
Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets for a low-carb version of this comforting soup.
Serving Suggestions
- Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping into the hearty broth.
- Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete and balanced meal.
- Toppings: Top the soup with grated Parmesan cheese or fresh chopped parsley for extra flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Hamburger Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat on the stove over medium heat.
Can I Freeze Hamburger Soup?
Yes, Hamburger Soup freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey as a leaner alternative to ground beef. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
Easy Hamburger Soup is a warm and hearty dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, this soup provides big flavor and comfort that everyone will enjoy. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal that’s sure to satisfy!
Did you make this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below and let us know how it turned out!