Hamburger Soup Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, then you are absolutely going to love this Hamburger Soup. It’s a hearty, flavorful blend of ground beef, fresh vegetables, and savory broth that comes together quickly and easily, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a satisfying weekend lunch. Each spoonful offers a perfect balance of rich meatiness, tender potatoes, and vibrant veggies, delivering a taste experience that’s both familiar and completely unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple yet essential ingredients create a beautiful harmony of flavors and textures in this Hamburger Soup. From the juicy ground beef to the fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, each component plays a vital role in building this comforting dish.

• 1 lb ground beef: The hearty foundation that gives the soup its rich, meaty flavor.
• 2 cups diced potatoes: Adds a comforting, creamy texture and helps thicken the broth.
• 1 cup chopped carrots: Brings a subtle natural sweetness and vibrant color to the pot.
• 1 cup chopped celery: Adds a nice crunch and mild earthiness to balance the flavors.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Provides depth and aromatic foundation for the soup.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the broth with a warm, inviting flavor.
• 4 cups beef broth: The savory liquid base that ties everything together.
• 1 can diced tomatoes: Adds acidity and a fresh tang that brightens the entire dish.
• 1 cup corn kernels: Brings subtle sweetness and a pop of color.
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning: Lends aromatic herbs that complement the beef and veggies perfectly.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing and balancing all the flavors.
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a fresh finishing touch and beautiful green color.

How to Make Hamburger Soup

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat and adding the ground beef. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain off any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy but retain all that fantastic meaty flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Next, toss in the chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté these together for about 5 minutes until the onions are translucent and the veggies begin to soften. This step unlocks a wonderful aromatic base and builds layers of flavor for your Hamburger Soup.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Potatoes, Corn, and Seasoning

Now it’s time to stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), potatoes, corn kernels, Italian seasoning, and beef broth. This mix will create a colorful and hearty medley that promises a rich, satisfying soup. Give everything a good stir to combine each ingredient beautifully.

Step 4: Bring to a Boil and Simmer

Turn up the heat just enough to bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for around 25 to 30 minutes, allowing the potatoes to cook through and the flavors to meld into that perfect comforting blend.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Finish

Once the potatoes are tender, taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper to your liking. This is your chance to make it truly your own. Finish by stirring in the fresh chopped parsley for a bright, herbaceous note right before serving.

How to Serve Hamburger Soup

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is an obvious crowd-pleaser, adding vibrant color and fresh flavor. You might also love a sprinkle of shredded cheddar for a melty, indulgent touch, or even a dollop of sour cream to add creaminess that balances the robust broth.

Side Dishes

Serve this hearty soup alongside crusty bread or warm dinner rolls for dipping into that delicious broth. A simple side salad or roasted veggies can round out the meal with extra crispness and freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, ladle Hamburger Soup into individual bread bowls and top with cheese for an irresistible presentation. Or, layer the soup over cooked rice or noodles for a heartier, fork-friendly version.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Hamburger Soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before reheating.

Freezing

You can freeze Hamburger Soup for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. Thaw overnight in the fridge before warming it back up gently on the stove.

Reheating

Reheat the soup over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a splash of broth or water if it has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving for the best texture and flavor retention.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that will still keep your Hamburger Soup hearty, though it will have a milder flavor. Just brown it the same way before adding the vegetables.

What can I substitute for Italian seasoning?

If you don’t have Italian seasoning on hand, a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme works perfectly. These herbs complement the beef and vegetables really well.

Is Hamburger Soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your beef broth and canned tomatoes are gluten-free, this recipe is naturally free of gluten. It’s a fantastic choice for those avoiding gluten.

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in zucchini, green beans, or bell peppers. Just adjust cooking times slightly so everything stays tender but not mushy.

How thick should Hamburger Soup be?

The soup should be hearty but still brothy enough to spoon easily. The potatoes help thicken it naturally, but if you prefer it thicker, you can mash a few potatoes right in or add a bit of tomato paste.

Final Thoughts

Hamburger Soup is one of those magical dishes that warms your heart and fills your belly with the simplest, happiest ingredients. It’s easy enough to whip up any day of the week, but special enough to become a family favorite. I truly hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy every cozy bowl as much as I do. Once you make it, Hamburger Soup will be calling your name again and again!

Print