Hamburger Soup

Hamburger soup is a hearty, comforting dish loaded with ground beef, vegetables, and savory broth. It’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights or chilly days when you need something filling and satisfying. Best of all, it’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and loved by the whole family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and quick: This recipe comes together in about 45 minutes, making it ideal for weeknights.
• Nutritious and filling: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins from fresh veggies.
• Versatile: You can easily swap ingredients or add your favorite vegetables.
• Meal-prep friendly: It stores and reheats beautifully, making leftovers a treat.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef
• Onion, diced
• Carrots, sliced
• Celery, chopped
• Potatoes, diced
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Diced tomatoes (canned)
• Tomato sauce
• Beef broth
• Green beans (fresh or frozen)
• Corn kernels
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil
• Bay leaves

Directions

1. Brown the beef: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Sauté the veggies: Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add liquids and seasoning: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add the potatoes, Italian seasoning, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Add remaining veggies: Stir in the green beans and corn. Cook for another 5 minutes until heated through. Remove the bay leaves.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 35 minutes
• Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Protein swap: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
• Extra veggies: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
• Low-carb option: Replace potatoes with cauliflower.
• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Let the soup cool completely, then freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

How do I thicken hamburger soup?

If you prefer a thicker soup, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the simmering soup.

Can I make hamburger soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

What kind of potatoes work best?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes hold up well in soup and add a creamy texture.

Can I use canned vegetables?

Absolutely! Canned vegetables work in a pinch, though fresh or frozen offer better texture.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your broth and canned ingredients are gluten-free.

What herbs can I add for more flavor?

Try adding thyme, rosemary, or a sprinkle of parsley before serving.

Can I add pasta or rice?

Sure! Add cooked pasta or rice at the end of cooking for an even heartier meal.

How do I make it more keto-friendly?

Skip the potatoes and corn, and add more low-carb veggies like spinach or zucchini.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this soup scales up easily — just use a larger pot!

What sides go well with hamburger soup?

Serve it with garlic bread, dinner rolls, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Hamburger soup is a cozy, nourishing dish that’s incredibly easy to make and endlessly customizable. Whether you keep it classic or load it up with your favorite veggies and spices, this recipe is sure to become a go-to comfort food in your home. Perfect for meal prepping, freezing, or feeding a crowd — it’s a winner every time!

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