Hamburger soup is not only a timeless comfort dish, but it also consistently satisfies cravings for hearty, wholesome meals. Additionally, it combines flavorful ground beef, tender vegetables, and savory broth, which makes it an ideal go-to recipe for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or even simply warming up on a chilly day. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about making the perfect hamburger soup, including tips, variations, and answers to common questions.
In this detailed article, you’ll learn about the best ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and even freezing tips to ensure your soup turns out just right.
What is Hamburger Soup?
To begin with, hamburger soup is a classic beef and vegetable soup, often referred to as “clean out the fridge soup” due to its flexibility in accommodating nearly any vegetable you have on hand. Moreover, it’s made by simmering ground beef with vegetables like onions, carrots, celery, and potatoes in a rich broth, which results in a satisfying and nutritious meal. In contrast to chili, which tends to be spicier and includes beans, hamburger soup is typically lighter and focuses on the beef and vegetable combination.
Why is Hamburger Soup So Popular?
- Versatility: You can use whatever vegetables and seasonings you have at home.
- Ease of Preparation: Simple, one-pot cooking method.
- Nutritious: Loaded with protein and fiber from the beef and veggies.
- Customizable: Adaptable to suit different diets, from keto to gluten-free to vegetarian.
If you’re a fan of one-pot meals, then you’ll find that hamburger soup is not only versatile but also an easy recipe to add to your collection. In fact, it’s a fantastic way to use up fresh or frozen vegetables and make the most of ground beef in your kitchen.
Essential Ingredients for Hamburger Soup
To make a delicious hamburger soup, you only need a handful of basic ingredients. However, you can always tweak the recipe to match your preferences or what’s in your pantry. Here are the key components:
1. Ground Beef.
Choose either lean or regular ground beef based on your preference. A fattier cut will add more richness, while lean ground beef will make the soup lighter and healthier. If you’re using regular beef, you’ll want to drain the fat to avoid making the soup greasy. Lean ground beef, such as 90/10, might not require draining.
2. Vegetables.
- Onions, celery, and garlic: These aromatic vegetables form the flavorful base of the soup.
- Carrots and potatoes: They provide heartiness and texture.
- Bell peppers: Add a mild sweetness and vibrant color.
- Optional veggies: Zucchini, green beans, mushrooms, or peas can be added for extra nutrients and variety.
For more information on choosing the right vegetables and ground beef, check out this comprehensive guide to ground beef to learn how different fat contents can affect your soup.
3. Broth or Stock.
Beef broth is the best option for this recipe, providing a rich and savory base. However, if you want a lighter version, chicken or vegetable broth can also work well. If you’re looking for a deeper flavor, homemade beef stock or bone broth is an excellent choice.
4. Tomato Paste or Canned Tomatoes.
Tomato paste thickens the broth, while canned tomatoes add acidity and depth of flavor. Diced tomatoes or whole tomatoes can also be used, depending on your preference.
5. Seasonings and Herbs.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for balancing the flavors.
- Dried herbs: Parsley, oregano, and thyme are commonly used.
- Optional spices: Cayenne pepper for a bit of heat or smoked paprika for extra depth.
For more insights into using fresh and dried herbs in your soups, you can visit how to season your soups for great tips on flavor enhancement.
How to Make Hamburger Soup: Step-by-Step Guide
1. Brown the Ground Beef.
First, start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. As it cooks, break up the beef into small pieces, ensuring it’s evenly browned. Next, if you’re using regular ground beef, make sure to drain the excess fat from the pan in order to avoid a greasy texture in your soup. Finally, drain the fat thoroughly using a colander.
2. Add Aromatics and Vegetables.
Once the beef is browned, add diced onions, celery, and garlic. Sauté them for 3-5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and release their flavors. After that, add in the diced carrots and potatoes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in Broth and Tomatoes.
Next, pour in the beef broth, ensuring the vegetables are fully submerged. Then, stir in the tomato paste or canned tomatoes, as this will add body and acidity to the soup. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Season and Simmer.
Next, season the soup with salt, pepper, and herbs like parsley, oregano, or thyme. Then, let the soup simmer uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes so that the flavors can meld together. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can let it simmer for longer until it reaches your desired consistency.
5. Adjust Consistency.
If you prefer a thinner soup, you can add an extra cup or two of beef broth or water towards the end of the cooking time. For a thicker texture, simmer the soup uncovered for longer to reduce the liquid.
6. Serve and Enjoy.
Once the soup is done, taste it and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Then, ladle the soup into bowls and serve it hot. You can garnish it with grated Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
Can You Freeze Hamburger Soup ?
Absolutely! Hamburger soup is a freezer-friendly meal, making it perfect for meal prep. Here’s how to freeze it properly:
- Cool the Soup: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Portion It Out: Divide the soup into individual servings for easy reheating.
- Freeze for up to 3 Months: Store the containers in the freezer for up to three months. Moreover, be sure to label and date them for easy reference.
- Reheat: Thaw the soup in the fridge overnight, then reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.
For additional freezing tips and tricks, refer to this guide on freezing soups.
Variations of Hamburger Soup
One of the best things about hamburger soup is its flexibility. Here are a few variations to try:
1. Add Pasta or Grains
For a heartier version, you can add cooked pasta like elbow macaroni, or grains like rice or barley. Be sure to cook these separately and add them to the soup just before serving to avoid overcooking.
2. Make it Spicy
If you enjoy a little heat, you can easily add some diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or crushed red pepper flakes. Consequently, this will give the soup a flavorful and zesty kick.
3. Vegetarian Hamburger Soup
Alternatively, you can replace the ground beef with plant-based meat, or, in addition, increase the amount of hearty vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or beans. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
4. Creamy Hamburger Soup
If you’re looking for a richer and creamier version, simply stir in a splash of heavy cream or, alternatively, add a spoonful of sour cream toward the end of the cooking process.
FAQs.
1. Can I use frozen vegetables in hamburger soup?
Yes, frozen vegetables work perfectly in this soup. Add them during the simmering stage to ensure they cook evenly.
2. Can I make hamburger soup in a slow cooker?
Definitely! Brown the beef first, then add all the ingredients to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
3. Is hamburger soup keto-friendly?
Yes, hamburger soup can easily be adapted to be keto-friendly. For instance, you can skip the potatoes and instead opt for low-carb vegetables such as cauliflower or zucchini.
4. How long can I store hamburger soup in the fridge?
Hamburger soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, hamburger soup is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make and adaptable to various dietary needs. Whether you’re making it as a weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or freezing it for later, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. The combination of hearty beef, tender vegetables, and savory broth makes it a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying.
With its versatility and simple preparation, hamburger soup is undoubtedly a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you choose to stick to the classic version or decide to try one of the many variations, you can be sure that the result will be a flavorful and fulfilling dish.
Looking for more delicious meal ideas? Check out this easy guide to making sourdough French toast for a perfect breakfast option.