Hamburger Soup

This hearty Hamburger Soup is not just a comforting meal; it’s a versatile dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week ahead, this soup delivers on flavor and satisfaction. Packed with ground beef, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices in a rich tomato broth, it’s bound to become a family favorite.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Soup Base
• For Vegetables
• For Garnish
• How to Make Hamburger Soup
• Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef and Aromatics
• Step 2: Add Potatoes and Broth
• Step 3: Add Frozen Vegetables
• Step 4: Taste and Adjust Seasonings
• Step 5: Serve
• How to Serve Hamburger Soup
• Classic Bowl Presentation
• Garnished with Cheese
• Fresh Herbs Accent
• Crusty Bread Pairing
• Side Salad Addition
• Sour Cream Swirl
• How to Perfect Hamburger Soup
• Best Side Dishes for Hamburger Soup
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Hamburger Soup
• Reheating Hamburger Soup
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Hamburger Soup?
• Can I customize my Hamburger Soup?
• How do I make vegetarian Hamburger Soup?
• What are good toppings for Hamburger Soup?
• How long does Hamburger Soup last?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 10 minutes of prep time and 25 minutes of cooking, you can enjoy this delicious soup without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with vegetables and lean protein, this Hamburger Soup is a healthy option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
• Versatile Base: You can easily customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables or spices, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
• Perfect Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day! It stores well in the fridge and freezes beautifully for future meals.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love it! The familiar flavors make it an easy sell for even the pickiest eaters.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Hamburger Soup, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large soup pot or stock pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large soup pot: A spacious pot allows for even cooking of the ingredients without overcrowding.
• Wooden spoon: This is perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface while browning meat or mixing ingredients.
• Knife and cutting board: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, ensuring your prep time is minimal.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 stalk celery, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 5 cups beef broth
• 15 ounces diced tomatoes with juice
• 8 ounces tomato sauce
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Vegetables

• 3 cups frozen mixed vegetables (corn, green beans, carrots mix)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Hamburger Soup

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef and Aromatics

In a medium-sized soup or stock pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef along with the onion, celery, and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned with no pink remaining. Break it up as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess fat from the pot.

Step 2: Add Potatoes and Broth

Stir in the diced potatoes along with beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring this mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Add Frozen Vegetables

Next, stir in your frozen mixed vegetables. Continue to simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are tender and all flavors have melded beautifully together.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust Seasonings

Taste your Hamburger Soup once it’s cooked through. Adjust seasonings if necessary by adding more salt or pepper according to your preference.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle your warm Hamburger Soup into bowls. Optional: Top with Parmesan cheese or shredded cheese for added flavor before serving.

Enjoy this comforting dish that’s sure to warm you up on any chilly day!

How to Serve Hamburger Soup

This delicious Hamburger Soup can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor and make it even more enjoyable. Whether you prefer a simple bowl or a more elaborate presentation, there are plenty of options to consider.

Classic Bowl Presentation

• Serve the soup hot in deep bowls, allowing everyone to enjoy the hearty ingredients.
• Add a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper on top for an extra kick.

Garnished with Cheese

• Top each bowl with shredded cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella.
• The cheese melts into the warm soup, creating a creamy texture.

Fresh Herbs Accent

• Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil over the soup before serving.
• Fresh herbs add a burst of color and freshness that complements the flavors.

Crusty Bread Pairing

• Serve with crusty bread or breadsticks on the side.
• Perfect for dipping and soaking up the rich broth.

Side Salad Addition

• Pair your soup with a simple garden salad.
• A light salad balances the heartiness of the Hamburger Soup.

Sour Cream Swirl

• Add a dollop of sour cream to each bowl before serving.
• This adds creaminess and tanginess that elevates the overall taste.

How to Perfect Hamburger Soup

To ensure your Hamburger Soup is truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance both flavor and texture, making your dish unforgettable.

• Use lean beef: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce grease and keep the soup lighter.
• Fresh vegetables: Incorporate fresh seasonal vegetables for added flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust seasonings: Always taste before serving, adjusting salt and spices as needed for balance.
• Simmer longer: Letting the soup simmer longer allows flavors to meld beautifully; aim for at least 30 minutes if time permits.
• Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices like paprika or cayenne for a unique twist.
• Storage tips: Store leftovers properly in airtight containers to maintain freshness for days.

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Best Side Dishes for Hamburger Soup

Serving sides alongside your Hamburger Soup can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options that pair well:

1. Garlic Bread
   Perfectly toasted garlic bread complements the rich flavors of the soup. Simply spread butter and minced garlic on baguette slices before baking until golden.
2. Cheesy Biscuits
   Fluffy biscuits with melted cheese add comfort and pair wonderfully with the warmth of the soup. Bake them fresh for best results!
3. Cornbread Muffins
   Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to savory Hamburger Soup. They’re easy to whip up and great for dipping.
4. Caesar Salad
   A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and zest, balancing out the hearty soup. Toss romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese.
5. Roasted Vegetables
   Roasted seasonal vegetables make a nutritious side that complements your meal beautifully. Try carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers drizzled with olive oil.
6. Potato Wedges
   Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs are a fantastic addition. Bake them until golden brown for a satisfying crunch alongside your warm soup.
7. Stuffed Peppers
   Stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa provide an extra layer of heartiness that pairs nicely with Hamburger Soup’s flavors.
8. Fruit Salad
   A light fruit salad is refreshing after a hearty meal like Hamburger Soup. Mix seasonal fruits for a colorful and healthy side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Hamburger Soup can be simple, but there are common mistakes to steer clear of to ensure your dish turns out perfectly.

• Using Fatty Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to prevent a greasy soup. Drain excess fat after browning the meat for a lighter meal.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Not seasoning your soup enough can lead to bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasonings before serving.
• Overcooking Vegetables: Adding frozen vegetables too early can make them mushy. Stir them in during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking for the best texture.
• Not Using Enough Liquid: Hamburger Soup needs enough broth for a hearty consistency. Ensure you follow the broth measurement closely for optimal results.
• Ignoring Leftover Storage: Failing to store leftovers properly can lead to spoilage. Use airtight containers and refrigerate or freeze as needed.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Hamburger Soup

• Freeze in individual portions using freezer-safe containers.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Hamburger Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated throughout.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hamburger Soup?

Hamburger soup is a hearty dish made with ground beef, vegetables, and spices simmered in a rich tomato-based broth. It’s perfect for cozy dinners.

Can I customize my Hamburger Soup?

Yes! You can add different vegetables or spices based on your preferences. Consider adding beans or switching up the herbs for variety.

How do I make vegetarian Hamburger Soup?

To make a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

What are good toppings for Hamburger Soup?

Popular toppings include shredded cheese, fresh herbs like parsley, or even a dollop of sour cream for added richness.

How long does Hamburger Soup last?

When stored properly, Hamburger Soup lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator and can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Hamburger Soup recipe is not only delicious but also adaptable. With its comforting flavors and easy preparation, it’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices to suit your taste!