Craving a comforting meal that warms you from the inside out? This hamburger soup recipe is the answer! Packed with ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and a savory broth, it’s a satisfying dish that brings the essence of a classic hamburger into a hearty soup form. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is quick to prepare and sure to please your family and friends. Let’s dive into the details and make your kitchen the heart of your home!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 bowl) contains approximately 320 calories, 24g protein, 15g fat, 25g carbohydrates, and 4g fiber. This is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Drain excess grease and add chopped onion, cooking until translucent.
- Add diced carrots, celery, and bell pepper, sauté for 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with juice) and beef broth to the pot.
- Mix in frozen corn and Italian seasoning.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
- Cover and let simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute ground turkey for the beef for a lighter option. You can also use any frozen vegetables you have on hand, such as peas or green beans, to add variety and nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
This hamburger soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. You can also serve it over cooked rice or pasta for a heartier meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The soup also freezes well for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip browning the beef, as it adds depth of flavor.
- Ensure vegetables are cut evenly for consistent cooking.
- Adjust seasoning gradually to avoid over-salting.
- Don’t cover the pot too tightly; it can alter the cooking time.
- Let the soup simmer long enough for flavors to meld.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, use homemade beef broth.
- Try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for richness.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Top with shredded cheese for a creamy finish.
- Experiment with different herbs to customize the taste.
FAQs
Can I make hamburger soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef and vegetables first, then transfer to a slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Is hamburger soup gluten-free?
Yes, this soup can be gluten-free. Just be sure to use certified gluten-free beef broth and check your canned tomatoes for any additives.
Can I add beans to this soup?
Definitely! Adding beans like kidney or black beans can enhance the protein content and make the soup even heartier.
What can I garnish the soup with?
You can garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro, shredded cheese, or even a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
How do I make this soup spicier?
For an extra kick, add diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or red pepper flakes while cooking.
Conclusion
This hamburger soup recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the classic flavors of a hamburger in a warm, comforting bowl of soup. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, it’s simple to prepare and packed with nutrients. Make it your own by experimenting with different ingredients and enjoy the satisfaction of homemade goodness!
Hamburger Soup
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 carrots diced
- 2 celery stalks diced
- 1 bell pepper chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Drain excess grease and add chopped onion, cooking until translucent.
- Add diced carrots, celery, and bell pepper; sauté for 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with juice) and beef broth to the pot.
- Mix in frozen corn and Italian seasoning.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
- Cover and let simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.