If you’re craving a simple, filling, and comforting meal, hamburger soup is your go-to recipe. Not only is it packed with lean ground beef, hearty vegetables, and a flavorful beef broth, but it’s also perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Additionally, it’s easy to make and can be adapted to suit a variety of tastes, making it a family favorite for all seasons.
Why Choose Hamburger Soup Recipe?
Hamburger soup is not only easy to prepare, but it’s also highly customizable. Whether you want to add more vegetables or adjust the seasonings, this recipe offers flexibility while still delivering a rich, satisfying flavor. The combination of ground beef with potatoes, tomatoes, and a blend of herbs makes this soup a well-rounded meal. Moreover, it stores and freezes well, so you can enjoy leftovers whenever you need a quick meal.
For those who love hearty soups, this dish pairs well with cornbread. In fact, you can try it alongside this Southern cornbread recipe to create the ultimate comfort meal.
Ingredients for Hamburger Soup
To make this delicious hamburger soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Ground beef: Lean ground beef is ideal, but you can substitute with ground turkey or pork.
- Vegetables: Classic choices include carrots, celery, onions, and potatoes. However, feel free to add zucchini, peas, or green beans.
- Broth: Beef broth gives the soup a deep, savory flavor. Alternatively, you can use vegetable broth for a lighter option.
- Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes bring acidity and richness to the dish.
- Seasonings: A blend of Worcestershire sauce, garlic, bay leaves, and Italian seasoning ties everything together.
For a slightly different take on comforting meals, you might want to explore this Sausage Spinach Tortellini Soup, which shares a similar heartiness to hamburger soup. You can find the recipe here.
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
- First, brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat.
- Next, sauté the vegetables, including onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. After about 5 minutes, the vegetables will soften.
- Then, add the broth and diced tomatoes. Make sure to season the mixture with Worcestershire sauce, bay leaves, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Afterward, stir in the diced potatoes and bring the soup to a boil. As soon as it reaches a boil, lower the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- If desired, mix in frozen vegetables such as peas or corn during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Finally, adjust the seasoning as needed before serving. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaves before dishing up.
Variations for Hamburger Soup
This hamburger soup recipe is flexible and can be customized to suit your preferences:
- For a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth.
- If you prefer pasta, swap out the potatoes for pasta like rotini or macaroni.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure your broth and seasonings are gluten-free, and use gluten-free pasta or omit it altogether.
- To add some spice, include red chili flakes or diced jalapeños for a fiery twist.
What to Serve with Hamburger Soup
To complement your hamburger soup, consider these side dishes:
- Crusty bread or homemade dinner rolls for dipping.
- A light side salad, like a Caesar or garden salad.
- Additionally, garnish the soup with fresh parsley or grated cheese for extra flavor.
For more pairing options, try serving this soup with cornbread. Not only is it a great combination, but you can also find a step-by-step guide to making delicious southern-style cornbread, which goes perfectly with this meal.
Freezing and Storing Hamburger Soup
One of the advantages of hamburger soup is that it freezes well, making it an ideal meal for meal prep. Here’s how to store it:
- In the refrigerator, store the soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- In the freezer, portion the soup into freezer-safe bags or containers, and it will keep for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
For an in-depth guide on storing soups, check out this guide on how to freeze soups, which offers useful tips for keeping your soup fresh.
Nutritional Information
Here’s what you can expect nutritionally from a serving of hamburger soup:
- Calories: Approximately 245 per serving
- Protein: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 9g
- Sodium: 692mg
This soup is not only filling but also nutritious. By adding more vegetables or opting for low-sodium broth, you can make it even healthier.
FAQs About Hamburger Soup
Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, ground turkey, pork, or even plant-based alternatives work well in this recipe.
How can I make the soup thicker?
To thicken the soup, you can mash some of the potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry.
Can I freeze soup with potatoes?
Yes, but the texture of the potatoes might change after freezing. If you prefer, consider using pasta or rice if you plan to freeze it.
What can I do if the soup is too salty?
Add more broth or water to dilute the salt. You can also add a raw potato, which will absorb some of the excess salt.
Conclusion
Hamburger soup is a delicious, hearty meal that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. With simple ingredients and a variety of customization options, it’s no wonder this recipe is a favorite in many households. Serve it with your favorite sides, freeze it for later, and enjoy this comforting dish all year long. Don’t forget to pair it with Southern cornbread for the perfect combination!
This revised version incorporates more transition words such as furthermore, additionally, after, as soon as, however, and finally, improving the overall flow and readability.