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How to Make Hamburger Soup
Making Hamburger Soup is quick and easy, and it doesn’t require any complicated cooking techniques. Here’s how to prepare it step by step:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat about 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it is browned and fully cooked. This usually takes about 5–7 minutes.
Once browned, drain off any excess fat (if needed), and set the beef aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3. Add the Broth and Tomatoes:
Return the cooked ground beef to the pot and stir to combine with the onions and garlic.
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, beef broth, and water. Stir everything together.
4. Add the Vegetables and Seasonings:
Add the carrots, potatoes (if using), peas, and seasonings (oregano, basil, onion powder, salt, and pepper). Stir everything to combine.
Bring the soup to a simmer over medium-high heat.
5. Simmer the Soup:
Once the soup starts to boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30–40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
If you prefer a thinner soup, you can add a bit more water or broth as it cooks. If you like your soup thicker, let it cook longer to reduce.
6. Taste and Adjust Seasonings:
Once the soup is done, taste it and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may want to add a bit more salt, pepper, or dried herbs depending on your taste preferences.
7. Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve with crusty bread or crackers on the side for dipping.
Why This Hamburger Soup is So Special
Comforting and Filling: The combination of beef, potatoes, and vegetables creates a soup that is not only full of flavor but also filling enough to be a satisfying meal on its own.
Packed with Nutrients: With all the vegetables and the lean protein from the beef, this soup is a great source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It’s a great way to get in your servings of veggies while enjoying a comforting bowl of soup.
Great for Meal Prep: Hamburger Soup is an excellent dish for making ahead of time. It stores well in the refrigerator for 3–4 days and can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat and enjoy whenever you’re in need of a quick and easy meal.
Kid-Friendly: The soft texture of the vegetables and the savory beef make it a hit with kids (and picky eaters) too. You can even customize the veggies based on your children’s preferences—swap out the carrots for sweet potatoes, or use green beans instead of peas.
Tips for Making the Best Hamburger Soup
Use Lean Ground Beef: To make the soup a bit lighter, opt for lean ground beef or even ground turkey or chicken. This will reduce the fat content while still providing great flavor.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap in different vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Zucchini, corn, or green beans are great additions that would add color and variety to the soup.
Make it Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, you can add chili flakes, hot sauce, or even some diced jalapeños to give your Hamburger Soup a spicy kick.
Thicker Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, try mashing a portion of the potatoes once they’re cooked, or use a hand blender to blend part of the soup. This will give it a creamy texture without the need for cream or dairy.
Make it Ahead: Like most soups, Hamburger Soup tastes even better the next day once the flavors have had time to meld together. Prepare it ahead of time, let it cool, and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later.
Conclusion
Hamburger Soup is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, flavorful, and easy to make. With its savory ground beef, tender vegetables, and rich broth, it’s the perfect dish for warming up on a cold day or feeding a crowd. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal that makes clean-up a breeze.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a meal prep idea, or a crowd-pleasing dish to serve at a family gathering, Hamburger Soup is sure to hit the spot. With its customizable ingredients and comforting flavors, it’s no wonder this dish has been a family favorite for generations. Enjoy a bowl today and experience the warmth and satisfaction it brings!
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