Pin
This heartwarming hamburger soup has been a cozy dinner option in my household for years. Packed with tender vegetables, savory beef, and a flavorful broth, this is the kind of recipe that comes together effortlessly while satisfying your cravings. It’s perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or even meal prepping for busy days.
The first time I made this soup was on a rainy day when I needed something comforting and nourishing. It instantly won over my family, and now it’s my go-to soup for every season.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: Use a lean variety for less grease and great flavor.
- Diced potatoes: Make sure to peel and dice them evenly for consistent cooking.
- Chopped carrots: Adds natural sweetness and color.
- Chopped celery: Enhances the flavor base with its earthy notes.
- Medium onion chopped: Adds depth to the foundation of the soup.
- Garlic cloves minced: Brings aromatic richness; always use fresh garlic for maximum flavor.
- Beef broth: Provides a savory and robust base; opt for low-sodium to control salt.
- Diced tomatoes: Adds tanginess and balances the flavor.
- Corn kernels: Adds sweetness and texture; frozen or fresh works well.
- Italian seasoning: Brings a beautiful herbal mix that ties the flavors together.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing taste.
- Fresh parsley chopped: Use as garnish for brightness and a fresh finish.
How To Make Hamburger Soup
- Brown the Beef:
- Cook the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat until fully browned. Drain the fat to avoid extra grease in the soup.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add the onions, garlic, carrots and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and aromatic.
- Combine the Base Ingredients:
- Mix in the diced tomatoes, diced potatoes, corn kernels, beef broth and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together to combine ingredients evenly.
- Simmer to Perfection:
- Bring the soup to a boil on medium-high heat. Once it’s bubbling, reduce it to a gentle simmer and cook for 25 to 30 minutes. During this time, check to make sure the potatoes are tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Finish and Garnish:
- Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Before serving, top with freshly chopped parsley to brighten the flavors and add a colorful finish.
One of my favorite features of this soup is the corn. It reminds me of my grandmother’s garden and how we’d pick fresh corn to add into dishes like these for a sweet, seasonal crunch.
Storage Tips
Let the soup cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for a longer shelf life. For reheating frozen soup, thaw overnight in the fridge or heat it gently on the stovetop.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you’re out of ground beef, ground turkey or chicken works perfectly fine. For a vegetarian twist, try replacing the beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils and swap the beef broth with vegetable stock.
Serving Suggestions
Hamburger soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side of buttery crackers. For an extra indulgent twist, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top before serving.
Cultural Context
This soup takes the beloved flavors of an American hamburger and transforms it into a wholesome, comforting bowl. It’s a vibrant yet simple homage to classic, family-friendly meals featuring hearty staples like potatoes, beef and vegetables.
Recipe FAQs
- → How can I make this dish thicker?
To make the soup thicker, you can mash a small portion of the cooked potatoes or add a slurry of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the broth.
- → Can I use other types of protein?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based protein for a different flavor.
- → What other vegetables can I add?
You can include green beans, peas, zucchini, or peppers to enhance the soup’s flavor and texture.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Allow the soup to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave.
- → Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.