Hamburger soup is one of those delightful, heartwarming dishes that brings back a flood of memories with each spoonful. I remember the first time I encountered this comforting meal—it was a chilly autumn evening at my grandmother’s house. The kitchen was filled with the savory aroma of simmering beef and tomatoes, mingling with the earthy scent of potatoes and vegetables. It was one of those moments where the sheer warmth and coziness of home felt palpable. My grandmother had a knack for transforming simple ingredients into something extraordinary, and her hamburger soup was a testament to that magic.
This recipe for hamburger soup is a tribute to those comforting family dinners, combining ground beef, hearty potatoes, and a medley of vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth. It’s a versatile, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. Whether you’re craving something warm on a cold day or looking for a wholesome, satisfying meal, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Hamburger Soup Recipe Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef
½ onion, chopped
2 cloves of garlic, minced
3 cups beef broth
1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
6 ounces tomato paste
4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
3 cups mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Start with the Base
In a large pot, brown the ground beef and onion over medium heat until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are soft, about 5-7 minutes. This initial cooking releases the flavors from the beef and onions, creating a savory base for the soup. If you prefer a lighter soup, drain any excess fat from the pot at this stage. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. The garlic should become aromatic but not browned, which could make it bitter.
Add Liquids and Seasonings
Pour in the beef broth, and add the diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir everything together until well combined. This step ensures that the tomato paste is evenly distributed, thickening the broth and enriching its flavor. Next, toss in the diced potatoes, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. The potatoes will absorb the flavors of the broth as they cook, becoming tender and flavorful.
Simmer the Soup
Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, covered, for about 10 minutes. This gives the potatoes a head start on cooking and allows the flavors to begin melding together. Stir occasionally to prevent the potatoes from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Vegetables in the Mix
Add your mixed vegetables to the pot. You can use frozen or fresh vegetables, depending on what you have on hand. Continue to simmer the soup for another 12-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the vegetables are cooked through. This step ensures that all the ingredients are well-cooked and the flavors have melded together beautifully.
Final Adjustments
Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed. If you like your soup a bit thicker, you can mash some of the potatoes right in the pot to add body. This not only thickens the soup but also distributes the potato flavor more evenly throughout the broth.
Serve Warm
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and, if you like, garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated cheese for an extra touch of flavor. The garnish adds a fresh, vibrant note to the hearty soup, making each bowl even more inviting.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the great things about hamburger soup is its versatility. Here are a few variations and substitutions to suit different tastes or dietary preferences:
- Turkey or Chicken: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Vegetarian: Use a plant-based ground meat alternative and vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Different Vegetables: Feel free to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans can all make great additions.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme can replace or complement the Italian seasoning.
- Cheesy: Stir in some shredded cheese at the end of cooking for a creamy, cheesy soup.
Summary
Hamburger soup is a wonderfully adaptable and satisfying dish. Its rich, savory broth combined with tender beef, hearty potatoes, and colorful vegetables makes it a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it on a cold winter night or preparing a big batch for meal prep, this soup promises to deliver warmth and comfort. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and a great way to use up any leftover vegetables you might have. Each spoonful brings a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a beloved choice for family dinners and gatherings.
Enjoy the process of making this soup, and relish the wonderful aroma that will fill your kitchen. Most importantly, savor the comforting, delicious meal that results—a true testament to the joy of home-cooked food.
