Hearty Hamburger Soup
This hearty hamburger soup is the ultimate comfort food, packed with ground beef, tender potatoes, and a variety of vegetables, all simmered in a rich, savory broth. It’s an easy dinner option that’s sure to be a hit with the whole family!
Whenever I’m in search of a one-pot meal that will please everyone, I often turn to classics like chili mac, chicken cacciatore, or this simple yet satisfying hamburger soup.
Have you ever found yourself with a pound of ground beef and no idea what to make? That’s when hamburger soup comes to the rescue—it’s filling, quick to prepare, and you can easily customize it with ingredients you have on hand.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This hamburger soup is not only delicious and hearty, but it’s also incredibly versatile. It’s a great way to use up leftover vegetables, and you can adjust the flavors to suit your taste. Plus, it’s a complete meal in a bowl that can be made in under an hour.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 lbs lean ground beef
- 1 white onion, peeled and diced
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper, more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dry oregano, more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dry basil, more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon seasoning salt
- 1 (1 1/2 ounce) envelope onion soup mix
- 6 cups water, more for desired consistency
- 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 cup celery, sliced
- 1/4 cup celery leaves, coarsely chopped
- 1 cup fresh carrot, sliced
- 1 cup white potato, peeled and cut into small cubes
- Garlic salt, to taste
- Shredded parmesan cheese, to serve
- Sour cream, to serve
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef and onion over medium heat. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add the spices and onion soup mix, stirring well to combine.
- Pour in the water, tomato sauce, and soy sauce, and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add the remaining ingredients up to the potatoes. Bring the soup back to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered until the potatoes and carrots are tender, about 30 minutes. Add more water if needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Season with garlic salt to taste.
- Serve the soup hot, topped with shredded parmesan cheese and a dollop of sour cream.
Tips for Success
- Be sure to brown the beef thoroughly for the best flavor.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste; feel free to add more herbs or spices.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of water or let it simmer longer.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Try adding other vegetables like green beans or peas for extra nutrition.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Use beef broth instead of water for a richer flavor.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This soup is a great source of protein and fiber, and it’s loaded with vitamins from the vegetables. It’s a comforting meal that fits well into a balanced diet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
What can I serve with hamburger soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a simple side salad.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a leaner alternative to beef and works perfectly in this recipe.
Conclusion
This hearty hamburger soup is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. I encourage you to give it a try and make it your own with the ingredients you have on hand. Don’t forget to share your experiences and any unique twists you added to the recipe. Enjoy!