Hamburger Soup
Hamburger soup is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the flavors of a classic hamburger with the wholesome goodness of a vegetable-packed soup.
Perfect for chilly evenings, this one-pot meal is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. With ground beef as the star ingredient, complemented by a medley of colorful vegetables and aromatic seasonings, hamburger soup delivers both flavor and nutrition in every bowl.
Originating as a budget-friendly meal, hamburger soup has evolved into a beloved family favorite. It allows for endless variations, making it easy to adapt to seasonal vegetables or personal preferences.
This recipe captures the essence of this delicious soup while ensuring it remains simple enough for weeknight dinners yet tasty enough to impress guests.
Ingredients
To create a flavorful Hamburger Soup, gather the following ingredients:
Meat:
- 1 pound ground beef (lean)
Vegetables:
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 medium bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped (fresh or frozen)
- 1 cup corn (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 bay leaf (for added flavor)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Hamburger Soup
Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat if necessary.
Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion becomes translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Add Bell Pepper and Green Beans:
Next, add the diced bell pepper and chopped green beans. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the bell pepper begins to soften.
Incorporate the Remaining Ingredients:
Pour in the beef broth and add the diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir in the corn, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, thyme, paprika, and season with salt and black pepper to taste. If using, add the bay leaf for extra flavor.
Bring to a Simmer:
Increase the heat to high to bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to cook through.
Taste and Adjust:
After simmering, taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can let it simmer uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes to reduce the liquid further.
Serve:
Ladle the Hamburger Soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor. This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad.
Chef’s Note
Hamburger soup is incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit your tastes or what you have on hand. Feel free to substitute or add different vegetables, such as potatoes, zucchini, or spinach. You can also experiment with different proteins—ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives can work well in this recipe.
For added depth of flavor, consider browning the meat with some diced bacon or adding a splash of red wine before adding the broth. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and often taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. This soup can also be frozen for later enjoyment; just make sure to leave some room in the container for expansion.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Hamburger soup is not only delicious but also nutritious, offering a good balance of protein, fiber, and vitamins from the variety of vegetables. It is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while enjoying a satisfying meal. However, be mindful of the sodium content, especially if using canned broth or tomatoes; opting for low-sodium versions can help manage this.
Conclusion
Hamburger soup is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dinner table. Its combination of ground beef, vegetables, and rich broth creates a hearty meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress family and friends, this soup fits the bill.
With its endless adaptability and comforting flavors, Hamburger Soup is sure to become a cherished recipe in your home. Enjoy the cozy and hearty goodness of this delightful soup!
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