Hamburger Soup, a humble yet heartwarming dish, combines ground beef, a medley of vegetables, and a rich tomato-based broth for a comforting bowl that’s perfect on any cold day. This straightforward recipe is a favorite for its ease of preparation and the hearty satisfaction it delivers, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, or whenever the craving for a nurturing and filling meal strikes.
Essential Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 5 cups beef broth
- 16 ounces canned diced tomatoes with juice
- 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- 3 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 bag (about 10-12 ounces) frozen mixed vegetables
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Detailed Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
- Begin by heating a large soup pot over medium heat. Crumble the ground beef into the pot and cook until browned. This not only builds the foundation of the soup’s flavor but also ensures that each spoonful is rich and satisfying. Drain any excess grease to keep the soup light and not overly oily.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Add the chopped celery, carrots, and onions to the pot with the browned beef. Sauté these together until the vegetables start to soften and the onions become translucent, about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it layers additional flavors and textures into the soup.
Step 3: Deglaze and Simmer
- Pour in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. These bits add a deep, caramelized flavor to the soup. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, basil, oregano, and ketchup. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Add Frozen Vegetables
- Mix in the frozen vegetables, which offer convenience and a burst of color and nutrients. Continue to simmer the soup gently for about 15-20 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined.
Step 5: Season and Serve
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the seasoning to your preferences. Serve the soup hot, with optional garnishes like chopped fresh parsley, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan, or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.
Tips for Perfect Hamburger Soup:
- Lean Meat Options: Opt for lean ground beef or even ground turkey for a healthier alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste.
- Vegetable Variations: Customize the soup with whatever vegetables you have on hand. This is a great recipe for cleaning out the fridge, as almost any vegetable can complement the robust flavors of the broth.
- Herb Enhancements: Consider fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary for a brighter flavor profile if you have them available.
- Preparation Ahead: Hamburger soup is excellent for meal prep as it stores well and the flavors deepen with time. Refrigerate it for up to three days or freeze it in airtight containers for up to three months.
Nutritional Insights:
Rich in protein from the beef and packed with vitamins from the variety of vegetables, Hamburger Soup is not only comforting but also nutritious. It’s a balanced meal that can be part of a healthy diet, providing energy and essential nutrients without excessive calories.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair Hamburger Soup with crusty bread for dipping, a side salad for added freshness, or a grilled cheese sandwich for a truly indulgent meal. It’s versatile enough to serve as a main or a hearty starter.
Easy Hamburger Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl. Perfect for any day of the year but especially soothing during the colder months, this soup is a testament to the power of simple ingredients to create something delicious and satisfying. Try this recipe the next time you need a quick and easy meal that the whole family will love, and enjoy the rich flavors and hearty textures that make it a beloved classic.
This blog post provides a comprehensive guide to making Easy Hamburger Soup, highlighting its simplicity, versatility, and the comfort it offers. Enhanced with tips, nutritional insights, and serving suggestions, it’s designed to engage readers and inspire them to create this delicious dish. If you’d like further customization or additional details, just let me know!