Hamburger Soup
There’s nothing like a steaming bowl of Hamburger Soup to warm you up on a chilly evening. This classic comfort food is not only hearty and filling but also incredibly easy to prepare. Packed with lean beef, colorful vegetables, and tender potatoes, it’s the kind of soup that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or making a batch to enjoy throughout the week, this soup is bound to become a favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Hamburger Soup is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It’s budget-friendly, easy to make ahead, and reheats beautifully. Plus, it freezes well, so you can always have some on hand. The soup’s rich flavors and wholesome ingredients make it a nutritious and satisfying meal. Pair it with a fresh green salad and a slice of crusty bread, and you’re all set for a delightful dinner.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- ¼ teaspoon oregano
- ¼ teaspoon basil
- ⅛ teaspoon seasoning salt
- 1 (2-ounce) package onion soup mix (for 3 or 4 servings)
- 6 cups boiling water
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 4 carrots, cut up
- ½ cup corn
- 1 cup celery, sliced
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large saucepan, brown the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Add salt, pepper, oregano, basil, seasoning salt, and the onion soup mix to the beef. Stir well to combine.
- Pour in the boiling water and tomato sauce. Cover the saucepan and let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes.
- While the soup is simmering, prepare the celery and carrots. Add them to the saucepan along with the corn, and continue to cook for another 30 minutes.
- Add the elbow macaroni to the soup and simmer for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add more water if necessary to achieve your desired consistency.
Tips for Success
- For a richer flavor, consider browning the beef in a little bit of olive oil.
- Make sure to stir the soup occasionally to prevent the macaroni from sticking to the bottom of the saucepan.
Additional Tips and Variations
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Swap the macaroni for your favorite pasta shape or use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Incorporate other vegetables such as peas or green beans for added variety.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep! Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.
- Can I freeze Hamburger Soup? Absolutely! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
- What can I serve with Hamburger Soup? A fresh green salad and some crusty bread make excellent accompaniments.
In conclusion, this Hamburger Soup is a must-try for anyone who loves a hearty, comforting meal that’s easy to prepare. I invite you to give this recipe a go and share your experiences in the comments below. Happy cooking!