Best Homemade Hamburger Soup Recipe – Hearty & Easy!
When you need a meal that’s warm, hearty, and packed with flavor, this homemade hamburger soup is the perfect solution. It brings together juicy ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a rich, savory broth to create a dish that’s both nourishing and satisfying.
Whether you’re craving comfort food on a chilly evening or need a quick and easy meal for the family, this soup delivers.
Unlike heavier stews, it has a lighter consistency, making it ideal for lunch or dinner any time of the year.
Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can customize the ingredients based on what you have in your kitchen.
With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this one-pot meal is a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
What Is Hamburger Soup?
Hamburger soup is a hearty, beef-based soup that combines ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful broth for a wholesome, comforting meal.
Unlike traditional beef stews that use chunks of meat, this version uses crumbled ground beef, which cuts down on cooking time while delivering a rich, meaty flavor.
The soup’s base includes savory beef broth, diced tomatoes, and a blend of herbs and spices that enhance its depth.
Carrots, celery, potatoes, and bell peppers provide texture, color, and nutrition, making it a balanced meal in a bowl.
This dish is also incredibly versatile, allowing you to swap out ingredients or add extras like pasta, rice, or beans for added heartiness.
Whether you serve it on its own or alongside a slice of warm bread, hamburger soup is a timeless classic that never disappoints.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make Hamburger Soup
This recipe serves 6–8 people and can be easily doubled for meal prep.
Main Ingredients:
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 cup frozen green beans
Optional Additions:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for added depth
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Substitutions and Variations:
- Ground Meat Alternatives: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a leaner or vegetarian option.
- Low-Carb Version: Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets or extra vegetables.
- Extra Protein: Add cooked beans or lentils to increase fiber and protein content.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Hamburger Soup
1. Brown the Ground Beef
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Drain any excess grease from the pot to keep the soup from becoming too oily.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook for 3–4 minutes until the onion turns translucent.
- Stir in the carrots, celery, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper, and sauté for another 5 minutes to enhance their flavor.
3. Add the Broth and Seasonings
- Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes with their juices.
- Stir in the tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, and bay leaf.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the Potatoes and Simmer
- Add the diced potatoes and bring the soup to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
5. Add Frozen Vegetables
- Stir in the frozen corn and green beans, allowing them to cook for another 5–7 minutes.
6. Final Adjustments and Serve
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Remove and discard the bay leaf.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, alongside crusty bread or crackers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking Vegetables: Add them in stages to prevent mushy textures.
- Skipping the Browning Step: Searing the ground beef first enhances the soup’s depth of flavor.
- Under-Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt levels to ensure a balanced, flavorful broth.
Serving and Presentation Tips
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve with buttered bread, cornbread, or garlic toast.
- Garnish Ideas: Top with grated Parmesan or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.
- Best Bowls: Deep soup bowls help keep the soup warm longer and showcase its vibrant ingredients.
Expert Tips
- Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare in advance and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for Later: Cool completely and store in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Thicker Soup: Mash some of the potatoes or add a cornstarch slurry for a heartier texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make hamburger soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients (except frozen vegetables) to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, adding the frozen vegetables in the last 30 minutes.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Cool the soup, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Can I add pasta to this soup?
Yes! Cook pasta separately and stir it in just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Conclusion
Hamburger soup is a hearty, comforting dish that’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for meal prep.
With rich, meaty flavors, tender vegetables, and a savory broth, this soup is a must-have in your dinner rotation.
Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weeknight meal or making a big batch for freezing, it’s a dish that delivers warmth and satisfaction in every bite.
