Hamburger Soup

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Total Time: 50–60 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Servings: 6–8

 What is Hamburger Soup?

Hamburger Soup is a rustic, comforting, and budget-friendly dish made with ground beef, vegetables, and broth. It’s essentially a ground beef and veggie stew — hearty like a chili but lighter and brothier. This one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or cold-weather dinners.

Packed with protein, fiber, and rich flavors, it’s a family-friendly favorite that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. You can customize it based on what you have on hand, and it freezes beautifully.

 Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 3 medium carrots, sliced

• 2 celery stalks, sliced

• 1 medium russet potato, diced

• 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)

• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)

• 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste

• 4 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)

• 1 cup water

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp dried basil

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 cup green beans (fresh or frozen)

• 1/2 cup corn kernels

• 1/2 cup peas

• 1 bay leaf (remove before serving)

 Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat.

2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon (about 6–8 minutes).

3. Drain any excess fat, then return the beef to the pot.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

1. Stir in the diced onion and garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Seasoning

1. Add carrots, celery, bell pepper, and potatoes to the pot.

2. Stir in tomato paste and mix to coat the vegetables.

3. Add diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, water, Worcestershire sauce, basil, oregano, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.

4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

Step 4: Simmer

• Cover partially and let simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until vegetables are fork-tender and flavors have melded together.

Step 5: Add Finishing Touches

• If using green beans, peas, or corn, stir them in during the last 5–10 minutes of cooking.

• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle hot soup into bowls and serve with warm bread, crackers, or grilled cheese sandwiches.

 Serving Suggestions

• Classic Pairings: Serve with a slice of crusty bread or a side of buttered toast.

• Cheesy Option: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Parmesan on top.

• Soup & Sandwich Combo: Pair with a grilled cheese or BLT for a hearty meal.

• Make it a Stew: Add less broth and more potatoes for a thicker texture.

 Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Let soup cool completely, then freeze for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Warm on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until hot throughout.

Tip: Freeze in individual portions for quick meals.

 Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

Note: Nutrition may vary depending on exact ingredients used.