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“Can’t get enough of those cozy, chilly evening vibes?” One-pot meals like this Hearty Hamburger Soup have a magical way of wrapping you in warmth while delivering a burst of comforting flavor. Brimming with ground beef, tender potatoes, and vibrant vegetables, this easy soup recipe is not just delicious—it’s also family-friendly and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re looking to impress your dinner guests or simply searching for a hassle-free weekday meal, this dish checks all the boxes. Pack up those fast-food cravings, because with just a single pot, you can create a hearty masterpiece that’s perfect for satisfying even the hungriest of appetites. Are you ready to dive into this wonderful world of homemade goodness?
Why is Hamburger Soup a must-try?
Comforting and hearty, this Hamburger Soup delivers all the cozy feels in just one pot! Easy to customize, feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own. Quick to prepare, it’s a fantastic solution for weeknight dinners when time is tight. Kid-approved and deliciously satisfying, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal that rivals those quick fast-food options—no more takeout when you can whip up a homemade classic. For similar comforting recipes, check out this tasty Hamburger Potato Casserole that your loved ones will adore!
Hamburger Soup Ingredients
• Get ready to create a flavorful bowl!
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For the Soup Base
- Ground Beef – Adds protein and richness; opt for lean (93/7) for a healthier dish.
- Onion – Provides a savory base flavor; yellow or white onions work perfectly.
- Garlic – Elevates the soup with fragrant notes; fresh minced garlic is ideal.
- Salt & Pepper – Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust according to your taste.
- Yukon Gold Potatoes – Acts as a hearty filler; cut into small pieces for quicker cooking.
- Beef Broth – Forms the base of the soup with robust flavor; full-salt broth is recommended.
- Condensed Tomato Soup – This “secret ingredient” gives a rich tomato flavor; don’t substitute this one!
- Petite Diced Tomatoes – Provides texture and freshness; remember to use them undrained.
- Frozen Mixed Vegetables – Offers convenience and variety; a mix of carrots, peas, corn, and green beans is great.
For Added Flavor
- Worcestershire Sauce – Significantly enhances the umami flavor and shouldn’t be omitted.
- Dried Parsley & Basil – Add subtle herb notes to complete the flavor profile; use fresh herbs if you have them!
This Hamburger Soup recipe is not just a meal; it’s a tradition of comfort wrapped in a delicious bowl, perfect for gathering around the table with your loved ones!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hamburger Soup
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, add the ground beef, diced onion, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of salt. Brown the meat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until the beef is no longer pink and the onions become translucent. Once cooked, drain any excess grease to keep your Hamburger Soup light and flavorful.
Step 2: Prepare the Soup Base
Now, add your chopped Yukon Gold potatoes, beef broth, condensed tomato soup, and petite diced tomatoes (do not drain) to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the potatoes are coated with the soup base. The vibrant colors will already hint at the deliciousness to come—this soup is truly a feast for the eyes!
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
Next, toss in the frozen mixed vegetables along with a dash of Worcestershire sauce for that umami punch. Give everything a gentle stir, making sure the veggies are evenly dispersed. It’s time for this hearty Hamburger Soup to come together and simmer in its flavors for a truly satisfying experience.
Step 4: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step is crucial for allowing the flavors to meld and the potatoes to soften—your kitchen will be filled with an aromatic warmth as the soup cooks.
Step 5: Taste & Adjust
After 30 minutes, carefully taste your Hamburger Soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed. This is your moment to customize based on personal preferences! Once seasoned to perfection, serve your soup hot, letting everyone indulge in the hearty comfort of this delicious one-pot meal.
Expert Tips for Hamburger Soup
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Let It Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer for the full 30 minutes to deepen the flavors, transforming it into a comforting delight.
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Uniform Potato Size: Cut potatoes into small, even pieces (less than ½ inch) to ensure they cook thoroughly during the simmering process.
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Use Full-Salt Broth: Full-salt beef broth enhances the richness of the Hamburger Soup. If using low-sodium broth, taste and adjust seasonings accordingly.
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Customize Veggies: Feel free to swap in your favorite or leftover vegetables. This soup is wonderfully adaptable to what you have on hand!
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Don’t Skip Worcestershire: This ingredient is crucial for adding a savory umami flavor—don’t omit it! It makes a noticeable difference in the final taste.
Make Ahead Options
These Hearty Hamburger Soup preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables (onion, potatoes, and any extras) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Additionally, you can cook the ground beef ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days, which also deepens the flavors. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, simply combine the prepped ingredients with the beef broth, canned tomatoes, and seasonings in your pot. Then bring everything to a simmer; it’ll taste just as delicious while saving you precious time! Don’t forget to adjust the seasoning before serving to cater to your family’s palate.
What to Serve with Hearty Hamburger Soup?
Get ready to elevate your cozy meal experience with delicious accompaniments that enhance every spoonful of comfort.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, it adds a satisfying crunch to your hearty soup and soaks up every flavorful drop.
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Cornbread Muffins: These sweet, fluffy treats offer a delightful contrast to the savory soup, making each bite even more enjoyable.
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Simple Green Salad: Fresh greens bring a crisp, refreshing element, balancing the warmth of the Hamburger Soup beautifully.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery, and infused with garlic, they complement the rich flavors while providing a deliciously chewy texture.
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Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and sweetness to your meal, cleansing the palate between hearty bites.
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Cheddar Biscuits: Fluffy and cheesy, these biscuits pair wonderfully with the soup’s richness and are great for dipping.
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Sparkling Water or Iced Tea: Refreshing drinks help cool your palate while enhancing the overall experience of your comforting meal.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: A warm cookie is a sweet ending after a savory soup, creating a balance of flavors that delights every member of the family.
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Apple Crisp: Warm, fragrant, and topped with ice cream, this dessert wraps up the meal on a sweet note that everyone will adore.
Hamburger Soup Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this delightful Hamburger Soup to suit your tastes and dietary needs!
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Vegetable Pops: Use fresh or leftover vegetables instead of frozen ones for seasonal flair and added nutrition. It’s a great way to cut down on waste!
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Spicy Upgrade: Toss in a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, or sprinkle chili powder for a zesty kick. Heat lovers will rejoice with this simple tweak!
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Different Flavors: Swap out Yukon Gold potatoes for sweet potatoes or parsnips for a unique flavor profile that adds a slightly sweet note to your soup.
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Protein Options: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or load up on beans for a hearty vegetarian version.
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Creamy Texture: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream right before serving for an indulgent, creamy finish that elevates the soup’s richness.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh or dried herbs like thyme or oregano for an aromatic twist that complements the tomato base beautifully.
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Noodle Additions: For an extra hearty bowl, noodle lovers can add cooked pasta or rice during the last few minutes of cooking to create a filling one-pot meal.
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Kid-Friendly Swap: Make it kid-approved by using a sweet tomato sauce in place of condensed tomato soup, ensuring flavors remain mild and delicious.
Don’t forget to accompany your comforting bowl of Hamburger Soup with a side of crusty bread or explore recipes like this Hamburger Potato Casserole for delightful dinners the whole family will cherish!
How to Store and Freeze Hamburger Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. This Hamburger Soup stays delicious and ready for quick reheating.
Freezer: If you want to keep it longer, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Leave some space at the top for expansion.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if it thickens up too much.
Hamburger Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of ground beef is best for Hamburger Soup?
I recommend using lean ground beef (93/7) for a healthier option that still delivers plenty of flavor. However, if you prefer a richer taste or more fat content, you can opt for regular ground beef. Just be sure to drain any excess grease after cooking to keep the soup light and tasty!
How should I store Hamburger Soup leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Just make sure the soup is cooled to room temperature before sealing it up to maintain freshness. You can easily reheat it on the stove or microwave for a quick meal later!
Can I freeze Hamburger Soup, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, ladle the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat over medium heat on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it thickens.
What if my potatoes aren’t cooking in the soup?
No worries! This can happen if the potatoes are cut too large. To troubleshoot, make sure you cut your Yukon Gold potatoes into uniform pieces no larger than ½ inch. If you find they are still not cooking well, you could also microwave them for a couple of minutes beforehand to give them a head start!
Are there any dietary considerations for Hamburger Soup?
For those with dietary restrictions, this soup can easily be adapted. If you’re avoiding gluten, ensure your beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free. Additionally, for dairy allergies, this recipe is naturally dairy-free, making it a great option. Just be cautious with seasoning blends that may contain allergens.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Very much! Using fresh vegetables instead of frozen is a fantastic way to customize your Hamburger Soup. You can incorporate any seasonal or leftover veggies you have on hand. Just chop them into small pieces and remember to add them to the pot during the soup base preparation step to ensure they cook properly.
Savory Hamburger Soup: Your Cozy Comfort in a Bowl
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, add the ground beef, diced onion, minced garlic, and a sprinkle of salt. Brown the meat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until the beef is no longer pink and the onions become translucent.
- Add your chopped Yukon Gold potatoes, beef broth, condensed tomato soup, and petite diced tomatoes (do not drain) to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Toss in the frozen mixed vegetables along with a dash of Worcestershire sauce. Stir gently, making sure the veggies are evenly dispersed.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for at least 30 minutes.
- Carefully taste your Hamburger Soup after 30 minutes and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed. Serve hot.
