Hamburger Soup Recipe: A Comforting Classic

Looking for a hearty, flavorful soup that warms you up on a chilly day? Hamburger Soup is the perfect solution. Packed with ground beef, vegetables, and savory broth, this dish is an all-time favorite for families. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making a big batch for meal prep, this recipe is easy, filling, and delicious!

Ingredients for Hamburger Soup

Before you start cooking, gather these ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (lean or extra lean for less fat)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter option)
• 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup carrots, sliced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 cup frozen corn (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning beef)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Hamburger Soup

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the olive oil and brown the ground beef. Break it up into small pieces using a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary. Once the beef is fully browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. This step helps to bring out the flavor of the vegetables, so don’t rush it!

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings

Now, return the browned ground beef to the pot. Add in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, potatoes, and all of the seasonings—thyme, oregano, bay leaf, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together to combine.

Step 4: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 30–40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally.

Step 5: Add Frozen Corn (Optional)

If you’re using frozen corn, add it during the last 10 minutes of cooking. This adds a pop of color and sweetness to balance the savory flavors.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust Seasonings

Before serving, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt and pepper or a pinch of extra herbs if you like.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Pair it with crusty bread or crackers for a perfect meal!

Pro Tips for Perfect Hamburger Soup

• Use lean ground beef to reduce the fat content. If you prefer a richer flavor, feel free to use a fattier ground beef or even mix in some sausage.
• If you want a richer broth, add a splash of worcestershire sauce or a bit of tomato paste for extra depth of flavor.
• For a creamy variation, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking.
• Meal Prep Tip: This soup freezes beautifully! Allow the soup to cool, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and 40 minutes of cooking time, you can make this hearty soup for dinner.
• Flexible: You can easily adjust the vegetables based on what you have at home, or swap out ingredients to suit your preferences.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Hamburger soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers!

Enjoy this comforting hamburger soup with your family or friends, and get ready for the cozy vibes it’ll bring to your kitchen!