If you are searching for a meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl on any day of the week, this Hearty Hamburger Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with tender ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, it transforms simple pantry staples into an inviting, comforting soup that satisfies hungry appetites and soothes the soul. Every spoonful brings vibrant textures and flavors that come together beautifully, making this soup a go-to classic for family dinners or gathering with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Hearty Hamburger Soup Recipe lies in its straightforward, humble ingredients that work in harmony to create complex flavor and hearty texture. Each one is carefully chosen to add freshness, body, and richness, turning a few simple items into a memorable meal.
- 2 Tbsp olive oil: The perfect base for sautéing and adding a subtle fruity note to the soup.
- 1 medium onion (finely diced): Brings a natural sweetness and depth of flavor once softened.
- 1 large carrot (peeled and thinly sliced): Adds a gentle earthiness and a pleasant burst of color.
- 4 sticks celery (thinly sliced): Provides a fresh, crisp flavor to balance the richness.
- 1 1/2 lb lean ground beef (85% or leaner): The star protein that delivers hearty satisfaction and a savory punch.
- 2 Tbsp tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor for a deeper, richer taste.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses aromatic warmth and a touch of spice.
- 28 oz canned diced tomatoes: Adds tangy brightness and a lovely body to the broth.
- 8 cups beef broth: The liquid base that brings everything together with robust meaty undertones.
- 2 large Yukon gold potatoes (peeled and chopped): Give the soup a satisfying creaminess and substance.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that enhances herbal notes and complexity.
- 1 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste): Essential for balancing the flavors perfectly.
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper (or to taste): Adds a gentle heat without overpowering the dish.
- 3 Tbsp fresh parsley (chopped for garnish): Brings fresh brightness and a pop of green at the end.
How to Make Hearty Hamburger Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat. Toss in the finely diced onion, thinly sliced carrots, and celery. Cooking these vegetables until they are softened releases their natural sweetness and forms a flavorful base that will elevate the entire soup.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
Next, add the lean ground beef right to the pot. Break it apart using a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks, letting it brown evenly. The golden crust that forms on the meat adds richness and a robust flavor that is essential to this hearty soup.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Garlic, and Potatoes
Once the beef is browned, stir in the diced tomatoes, minced garlic, and tomato paste. Add the peeled and chopped Yukon gold potatoes too. Each ingredient brings its own distinct note — the tomatoes add acidity, garlic adds warmth, and potatoes provide a creamy texture once cooked.
Step 4: Pour in Broth and Seasonings, Then Simmer
Pour 8 cups of beef broth into the pot, then sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring this hearty mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to simmer gently. Let it cook for about 30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender, allowing all the flavors to blend beautifully. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
How to Serve Hearty Hamburger Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley sprinkled on top adds a lovely burst of green color and a fresh herbal note that cuts through the richness of the soup. You might also try a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for an extra layer of savory goodness.
Side Dishes
Pair this soup with a crusty artisan bread or warm garlic knots to soak up the delicious broth. A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bowls with a swirl of sour cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt to add creaminess and tang. For a touch of color and crunch, top with crispy fried onions or paprika-spiced croutons. It’s amazing how little touches can turn this everyday soup into a special occasion dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you make extra, no need to worry — this soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors actually meld and deepen, making leftovers even tastier!
Freezing
This Hearty Hamburger Soup Recipe also freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a quick meal any time.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat to keep the potatoes tender and the beef juicy. Stir occasionally to rewarm evenly, and if the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of broth or water to loosen the texture.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef if you prefer a lighter option. The soup will still be hearty and flavorful, though the taste will be slightly different, so be sure to adjust seasonings as you go.
Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?
Peeling Yukon gold potatoes is recommended for a smoother texture and cleaner appearance, but you can leave the skins on if you prefer added rustic texture and a bit more nutrients. Just be sure to wash them thoroughly.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first to build flavor, then add everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours until the potatoes are tender.
How spicy is this soup?
This Hearty Hamburger Soup Recipe is mild by design, allowing the rich flavors of beef, tomatoes, and vegetables to shine. If you want a bit of heat, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during cooking or at the table.
What can I do to make the soup thicker?
If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the cooked potatoes directly in the pot or add a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water) towards the end of cooking. Stir well and cook for a few more minutes until thickened.
Final Thoughts
This Hearty Hamburger Soup Recipe is truly a comforting classic that never fails to bring smiles around the dinner table. Its simplicity and soul-warming qualities make it a perfect recipe to keep in your cooking arsenal. I hope you make it soon and share it with loved ones — there’s something so special about a homemade soup that fills your home with warmth and your belly with satisfaction.
Print
Hearty Hamburger Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A hearty and flavorful Hamburger Soup made with lean ground beef, fresh vegetables, and seasoned tomato broth. This comforting soup is perfect for a family meal and packed with nutritious ingredients simmered to tender perfection.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 1 large carrot, peeled and thinly sliced
- 4 sticks celery, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 3 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Meat
- 1 1/2 lb lean ground beef (85% lean or leaner)
Liquids & Tomato
- 28 oz canned diced tomatoes
- 8 cups beef broth
Other
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper (or to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Preheat a 5 1/2 quart Dutch oven or soup pot with the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion, thinly sliced carrots, and celery into the pot. Sauté the vegetables until they soften and become fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Cook the ground beef: Add the lean ground beef to the pot with the vegetables. Break the meat apart with a spoon or spatula as you cook, and continue until the beef is browned thoroughly and no longer pink.
- Add remaining ingredients: Stir in the canned diced tomatoes, minced garlic, tomato paste, peeled and chopped Yukon Gold potatoes, and beef broth. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Combine everything evenly.
- Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the flavors meld together. Adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a bright, fresh finish. Enjoy hot.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef (85% lean or leaner) to reduce fat content without sacrificing flavor.
- The Yukon Gold potatoes hold their shape well and add a creamy texture to the soup.
- You can substitute beef broth with low-sodium broth to control salt intake.
- This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day once the flavors have fully developed.
- For a thicker soup, simmer uncovered during the last 10 minutes to reduce liquid.
