A steaming bowl of Hearty Hamburger Beef Soup is the perfect meal to warm you up from the inside out. This dish combines juicy ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a rich, savory broth that comes together beautifully in one pot. The blend of herbs and spices enhances the flavors, making it a truly satisfying comfort food.
This soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or swap in ground turkey for a lighter twist. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an extra touch of flavor. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a meal-prep staple, this soup is a must-try!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 cup frozen green beans
- 1/2 cup corn kernels
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in carrots and celery, sautéing for another 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in diced tomatoes, beef broth, and tomato sauce. Stir to combine.
- Add basil, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Stir in diced potatoes and let the soup cook for 20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Add green beans and corn, cooking for another 5 minutes until all vegetables are tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for a comforting meal.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 285 kcal | Servings: 6
The History and Origin of Hamburger Beef Soup
Hamburger Beef Soup is a variation of traditional beef soup that has been enjoyed for centuries across different cultures. Originating from rustic European stews, it became a staple in American kitchens due to its simplicity, affordability, and ability to feed a crowd. Unlike slow-cooked beef stew, which often uses tougher cuts of meat that require hours of simmering, this recipe utilizes ground beef, making it a quick and convenient alternative. Over the years, home cooks have customized the soup by adding various vegetables, herbs, and seasonings to suit their taste preferences.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Unlike traditional beef stew, this soup comes together in under an hour.
- One-Pot Meal: Minimal dishes and easy cleanup.
- Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables, swap ground beef for turkey, or spice it up with chili flakes.
- Nutritious & Filling: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a wholesome meal.
Ingredient Breakdown & Substitutions
- Ground Beef: Provides rich, hearty flavor. For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken.
- Onion & Garlic: Essential for building a deep, aromatic base.
- Carrots & Celery: Adds natural sweetness and texture.
- Potatoes: Makes the soup more filling, but you can substitute with pasta or rice.
- Beef Broth: Enhances the meaty flavor. You can use vegetable broth for a lighter version.
- Tomato Sauce & Diced Tomatoes: Adds a hint of acidity and richness to the broth. Crushed tomatoes work as an alternative.
- Seasonings: Basil, oregano, and smoked paprika create a well-rounded taste. Adjust based on preference.
Tips for the Best Hamburger Beef Soup
- Brown the Beef Well: Let the ground beef develop a deep, rich flavor before adding other ingredients.
- Layer the Flavors: Sautéing onions, garlic, and vegetables before adding the broth enhances the taste.
- Let It Simmer: While it cooks quickly, letting it simmer for an extra 10-15 minutes deepens the flavors.
- Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for a bit of heat.
- Storage: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast for a satisfying meal.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Pair with a side salad for a balanced meal.
How to Store and Reheat
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave in 1-minute intervals. Add a splash of water or broth if needed.
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef first, then add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
2. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! Use about 4-5 ripe tomatoes, chopped.
3. How can I make this soup lower in carbs?
Omit the potatoes and replace them with cauliflower florets or zucchini.
4. What’s the best way to thicken the soup?
For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water).
The Origins and Evolution of Hamburger Beef Soup
Hamburger beef soup is a modern take on classic beef-based soups and stews that have been part of culinary traditions worldwide for centuries. In early European kitchens, soups were made with slow-simmered beef cuts, root vegetables, and simple seasonings to create nourishing meals. The American version, featuring ground beef, became popular due to its affordability, accessibility, and quick cooking time. Over the years, variations of this soup have emerged, incorporating regional spices, seasonal vegetables, and different broth bases.
This soup is especially loved for its ability to stretch ingredients, making it an economical choice for families. Whether served during cold winter nights or as a comforting meal any time of the year, this recipe remains a staple in many households.
Health Benefits of This Soup
This soup is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients that make it a wholesome meal:
- Protein-Packed: The ground beef provides essential proteins for muscle health and satiety.
- Rich in Vitamins & Minerals: Carrots, celery, and potatoes contribute fiber, vitamins A and C, and essential minerals like potassium.
- Boosts Immunity: The garlic and onion contain antioxidants and compounds that support immune health.
- Hydrating & Low in Calories: Since it has a broth base, it’s hydrating and relatively light compared to cream-based soups.
For those looking for a healthier version, using lean ground beef or ground turkey can reduce fat content, while swapping potatoes for cauliflower can lower the carbohydrate count.
How to Customize This Soup
This soup is highly adaptable, allowing you to tweak it based on dietary preferences or available ingredients:
- For a Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- To Make it Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer consistency.
- For a Low-Carb Version: Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets or zucchini.
- Vegetable Boost: Feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, peas, or spinach.
- For More Depth: A splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce can enhance the umami flavor.
This soup can also be turned into a hearty stew by reducing the broth and letting it simmer longer for a thicker texture.
Pairing Ideas: What to Serve with This Soup
While this soup is a satisfying meal on its own, pairing it with complementary sides can make it even more enjoyable:
- Bread: Crusty baguette, garlic bread, or homemade dinner rolls.
- Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Rice or Quinoa: A small serving of whole grains for extra fiber and texture.
- Cheese Garnish: A sprinkle of Parmesan or shredded cheddar on top adds a creamy, salty touch.
For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting classic combination.
Make-Ahead, Storage, and Freezing Tips
Meal prepping? This soup is perfect for making ahead and storing! Here’s how:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a little extra broth if needed.
Since this soup doesn’t contain dairy, it freezes well without separating. However, if you’ve added potatoes, they may slightly change in texture after freezing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a leaner option.
Can I make this soup in an Instant Pot or Slow Cooker?
Absolutely!
- Instant Pot: Brown the beef on sauté mode, then add all ingredients and pressure cook for 10 minutes (natural release for 5 minutes).
- Slow Cooker: Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours after browning the beef.
How can I make the soup less salty?
Use low-sodium beef broth and adjust the seasoning at the end of cooking.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Swap ground beef for lentils or plant-based meat and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Conclusion
Hearty Hamburger Beef Soup is the ultimate comfort food—warm, satisfying, and packed with rich flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a meal-prep option, or a cozy dish to enjoy on a chilly day, this soup delivers in both taste and nutrition. The combination of tender ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a savory broth makes it a wholesome, well-balanced meal that’s easy to customize based on your preferences.
What makes this recipe even better is its simplicity and versatility. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a delicious, homemade soup that the whole family will love. Plus, it stores and reheats beautifully, making it a great option for busy days. Serve it with crusty bread, a side salad, or enjoy it on its own for a hearty, nourishing meal.
Try this recipe today and bring a bowl of comfort to your table! If you enjoyed this dish, feel free to experiment with different seasonings and add-ins to make it your own. Don’t forget to share your experience and let us know how you liked it!