Name: Easy Beef Hamburger Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 medium carrots, chopped; 2 stalks celery, diced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups low-sodium beef broth; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

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Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever craved a dish that warms your soul, fills your belly, and is incredibly easy to prepare? Easy Beef Hamburger Soup is the solution. Just imagine the comforting aroma of seasoned beef mingling with fresh vegetables and savory broth bubbling on your stovetop. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings with family and friends.

As I reminisce about cozy nights spent sharing stories around the dinner table, this soup stands out as a go-to recipe. It brings people together, creating memories over steaming bowls of goodness. Whether it’s a family meal after a long day or a quick weeknight dinner, Easy Beef Hamburger Soup satisfies everyone’s hunger while delivering delightful flavors. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that promises to become a staple in your kitchen!

Key Ingredients For Easy Beef Hamburger Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option, ensuring you drain any excess fat after cooking.
Onion: A medium onion adds depth to the flavor; dice it finely for even cooking.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide a robust taste; consider mincing them right before use for maximum flavor.
Carrots: Chopped carrots not only bring sweetness but also add color; look for firm ones that feel heavy for their size.
Celery: Diced celery contributes crunch and freshness; choose vibrant green stalks with leaves intact.
Canned Tomatoes: Use diced tomatoes for acidity and flavor; opt for organic if possible.
Beef Broth: Choose low-sodium beef broth to control saltiness while still providing rich flavor.
Seasonings: Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper enhance the overall taste; feel free to adjust according to your preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Easy Beef Hamburger Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step: Brown the Meat

In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain off excess fat.

Second Step: Sauté Vegetables

Add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté these vegetables for about 5 minutes until they soften and release their aromas.

Third Step: Combine Ingredients

Stir in diced tomatoes along with their juices, then pour in the beef broth. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring everything to a gentle boil.

Fourth Step: Simmer

Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes. This allows all flavors to meld beautifully together.

Fifth Step: Adjust Seasoning

Taste your soup before serving and adjust the seasoning if needed by adding more salt or pepper.

Finally Step: Serve

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs or crusty bread on the side for an extra touch of comfort.

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to include additional vegetables like zucchini or green beans for more nutrition and variety.
Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day; consider making it ahead of time for easy reheating.
Freezing Instructions: Store leftovers in airtight containers; this soup freezes well for up to three months.

Cooking Instructions

To prepare the Easy Beef Hamburger Soup, start by browning one pound of ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Stir frequently, breaking the meat into smaller pieces until it is fully cooked. Drain any excess grease to keep the soup light and healthy.

Next, add chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté these vegetables for about 5 minutes until they soften. Then, stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to enhance the flavors.

Now it’s time to add the broth. Pour in four cups of beef broth along with diced tomatoes, and your choice of frozen mixed vegetables. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs like thyme or basil. Bring everything to a boil.

Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. If you prefer a heartier soup, consider adding small pasta or barley during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

After simmering, taste your Easy Beef Hamburger Soup and adjust seasonings as needed before serving.

Presentation Ideas

This Easy Beef Hamburger Soup is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Crusty bread: Serve with warm baguette slices or toasted garlic bread for a comforting meal.
Fresh herbs: Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro for added freshness and color.
Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top just before serving for a creamy touch.

FAQs

What are some variations of Easy Beef Hamburger Soup?

You can customize your Easy Beef Hamburger Soup by adding various ingredients based on your preferences. Consider using different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition. You can also try using ground turkey or chicken if you want a lighter option. Additionally, experimenting with spices such as cumin or paprika can elevate the flavor profile of your soup. If you’re looking for a kick, add some diced jalapeños or hot sauce.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! One of the great things about Easy Beef Hamburger Soup is that it stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Prepare it ahead of time and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve. For longer storage, consider freezing leftovers in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove until warmed through.

Is Easy Beef Hamburger Soup healthy?

Absolutely! Easy Beef Hamburger Soup can be quite healthy depending on how you prepare it. Using lean ground beef helps reduce fat content while incorporating plenty of vegetables boosts fiber and nutrients. You can also control sodium levels by opting for low-sodium broth or seasoning to taste instead of relying solely on salt.

Can I use leftovers from another meal in this soup?

Definitely! One of the best aspects of making Easy Beef Hamburger Soup is its flexibility. You can incorporate leftover cooked vegetables or meat from other meals into your soup base without compromising flavor. Just be mindful of any strong seasonings that may clash with the existing flavors in your soup base as you combine them together.