As the chill of autumn settles in, there's nothing quite like the comforting warmth of a hearty bowl of soup. Picture this: you're arriving home after a long day, and the aroma of simmering Hamburger Soup fills the air, instantly lifting your spirits. This isn't just any soup—it's a delightful amalgamation of flavors that brings together juicy ground beef, wholesome vegetables, and tender potatoes all in one pot.
I discovered this recipe during a particularly hectic week when takeout was becoming a routine, and I yearned for something homemade that wouldn’t take hours in the kitchen. It’s quick to prepare, easy to make, and perfect for warming up on chilly nights or impressing guests at your next gathering. Best of all, it's incredibly versatile; feel free to add in any leftover veggies you have lying around! So grab your pot and let the simmering begin—your new favorite comfort food awaits.
Why You'll Love This Hamburger Soup
- This Hamburger Soup is a breeze to prepare, taking just a total of 40 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- The rich and savory flavors create a warm and inviting dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Its versatility allows you to customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand, ensuring no two batches are ever the same.
- Plus, the vibrant colors of the vegetables make this soup visually appealing, turning a simple meal into a delightful showcase.
Hamburger Soup Ingredients
• To create this nourishing Hamburger Soup, gather the following fresh ingredients.
For the Soup Base
• 1 lb ground beef – this savory beef is the star of your dish, providing rich flavor and protein.
• 1 small onion, finely diced – adds a sweet yet savory depth to the flavor profile.
• 2 cloves garlic – enhances the taste with its aromatic goodness.
• 1 teaspoon salt – seasons the soup, bringing all the flavors together.
For the Vegetables
• 2 cups peeled and chopped Yukon gold potatoes (½-inch pieces) – these velvety potatoes add heartiness to your soup.
• 2 cans (14.5 oz each) beef broth – serves as the flavorful backbone of your soup.
• 1 can (10 oz) condensed tomato soup – contributes sweetness and a velvety texture.
• 1 can (15 oz) petite diced tomatoes, undrained – adds a burst of freshness and acidity.
• 1 bag (16 oz) frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, green beans) – a colorful mix that boosts nutrition and convenience.
For Seasoning
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – brings a tangy umami flavor that enhances the richness.
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley – adds a touch of freshness and color to the finished soup.
• ½ teaspoon dried basil – contributes a warm, herbal note that complements the other flavors.
How to Make Hamburger Soup
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Brown the Beef: In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef with diced onion, minced garlic, and salt until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Break the beef into crumbles and drain any excess grease.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the chopped Yukon gold potatoes, beef broth, condensed tomato soup, petite diced tomatoes, frozen mixed vegetables, Worcestershire sauce, dried parsley, and basil to the pot. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
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Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the soup is piping hot.
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Taste and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed. Serve hot with crusty bread rolls or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
Optional: Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Hamburger Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative with this delicious Hamburger Soup—it’s all about making it your own!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute condensed tomato soup with a dairy-free cream alternative for a lactose-free option.
- Vegetarian: Swap ground beef for lentils or plant-based meat crumbles to create a wholesome vegetarian version. You'll still get that hearty texture!
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix for an exciting heat that awakens the taste buds. This twist adds a whole new dimension of flavor.
- Herb Bliss: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or oregano instead of dried parsley and basil for a burst of vibrant flavors. Freshness in every spoonful!
- Root Veggies: Include additional root vegetables like carrots or parsnips alongside the Yukon gold potatoes for extra sweetness and texture. Your soup will be a colorful delight!
- Quinoa Boost: Stir in cooked quinoa to amp up the protein content; it’s a fantastic way to add texture and heartiness without sacrificing flavor.
- Curry Flavor: For an exotic twist, incorporate curry powder; this will transform your Hamburger Soup into a wholesome, aromatic dish bursting with warmth and comfort.
- Mushroom Lover: Add sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the beef, enhancing every bowl with a delightful richness.
How to Store and Freeze Hamburger Soup
Fridge: Store leftover Hamburger Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Freezer: Freeze Hamburger Soup in portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Lay bags flat for easy stacking and quicker thawing.
Thawing: To thaw, place the soup in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave's defrost setting. Reheat on the stove until hot throughout.
Reheating: When reheating, stir occasionally to ensure even heating and to restore the soup’s creamy texture. Enjoy a comforting bowl anytime!
What to Serve with Hamburger Soup?
Cozy up with a complete meal that pairs beautifully with the warm, hearty flavors of this comforting favorite.
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Crusty Bread Rolls: They’re perfect for soaking up every last drop of the delicious broth. Freshly baked rolls create a satisfying texture contrast.
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Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad adds brightness and crunch, balancing the rich flavors of the soup. Toss in a citrus vinaigrette for an extra zing.
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Savory Cheese Toast: Melty cheese on toasted bread creates a delightful cheesy accompaniment to the soup, enhancing the overall creamy experience.
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Garlic Bread Sticks: The aromatic garlic complements the flavors of Hamburger Soup, while the crisp texture adds a delightful crunch with each dip.
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Creamy Coleslaw: The sweetness and crunch of coleslaw provide a fantastic contrast to the savory soup, adding a bit of freshness to each bite.
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Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing, bubbly drink can cleanse your palate, making each spoonful of Hamburger Soup taste even better.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note, as warm cookies offer a comforting treat that everyone loves, perfect for cozy evenings.
Make Ahead Options
These Hamburger Soup preparations are perfect for busy weeknights when you need a warm meal ready in a flash! You can brown the ground beef with onions and garlic up to 24 hours in advance, then refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its flavor. The chopped potatoes and any other vegetables can also be prepared ahead of time—just store them in cold water to prevent browning. When you're ready to serve, simply combine the prepped ingredients with the broth and seasonings, then simmer for about 30 minutes. This makes your Homemade Hamburger Soup just as delicious with minimal effort, ensuring you have a hearty meal in no time!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the perfect Hamburger Soup, make sure to brown the ground beef well to enhance the flavor; this step adds depth to the entire dish.
- It's important to drain excess grease after browning to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
- To ensure even cooking, cut your Yukon gold potatoes into uniform ½-inch pieces so they cook through at the same time.
- Remember to taste the soup before serving; adjusting the seasoning with salt or Worcestershire sauce can take the flavors to the next level.
Hamburger Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes should I use for Hamburger Soup?
Absolutely! Yukon gold potatoes are great for this recipe as they become creamy and tender when cooked. However, if you prefer, you can also use Russet potatoes. Just be sure to peel and chop them into uniform ½-inch pieces for even cooking.
How do I store leftover Hamburger Soup?
Leftover Hamburger Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to maintain its delicious texture.
Can I freeze Hamburger Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Hamburger Soup! To do this, let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or airtight containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. I recommend laying the bags flat for easier stacking and quicker thawing.
How do I thaw and reheat Hamburger Soup?
To thaw Hamburger Soup, place it in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave's defrost setting. For reheating, I'd suggest pouring it into a pot and heating it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. This helps restore the soup’s creamy texture and ensures it's heated evenly throughout.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Very! Fresh vegetables can be used for Hamburger Soup. Just chop them into small, uniform pieces and adjust the cooking time based on their hardness—root vegetables like carrots will take longer, while softer veggies like zucchini will cook faster. Always taste as you go to ensure everything is perfectly tender.
Are there any dietary considerations for Hamburger Soup?
When making Hamburger Soup, keep in mind any allergies you or your guests might have, particularly to beef or gluten (if using regular broth). For a healthier version, you can swap out ground beef for ground turkey or veggie protein alternatives. If you're serving pets, remember that onions and garlic can be harmful to them, so it's best to set aside a portion of the soup without those ingredients.
Hamburger Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef with diced onion, minced garlic, and salt until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Break the beef into crumbles and drain any excess grease.
- Add the chopped Yukon gold potatoes, beef broth, condensed tomato soup, petite diced tomatoes, frozen mixed vegetables, Worcestershire sauce, dried parsley, and basil to the pot. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the soup is piping hot.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed. Serve hot with crusty bread rolls or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
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