Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
There’s something magical about a big pot of soup simmering on the stove—it fills your home with savory warmth and signals that comfort is on the way. And this Hamburger Soup? Oh, friend, it’s the cozy dinner hero you didn’t know you needed. It’s hearty, nostalgic, and ridiculously easy to whip up.
Think of it like your favorite childhood meal wrapped in a big, satisfying hug. It’s packed with lean ground beef, tender veggies, and rich tomatoey goodness—all working together to give you that soul-warming satisfaction in every bite. Trust me, you’re going to love this. Whether it’s a chilly night or you just want something that feels like home, this soup always hits the spot.
Why You’ll Love Hamburger Soup
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.
Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.
Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.
Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients in Hamburger Soup
Here’s the beauty of this soup—it’s made with humble pantry staples, but the flavor payoff is next-level. Let’s break it down:
Ground Beef: The hearty, savory base of the soup. Browned to perfection, it adds richness and depth.
Onion: Brings sweetness and aroma. It’s the secret to that comforting, homey flavor.
Garlic: A little punch of boldness that enhances the savory notes.
Carrots & Celery: Classic soup veggies that add color, texture, and a subtle sweetness.
Potatoes: Soft, hearty, and filling—they help make this soup feel like a full meal.
Tomatoes (Diced or Crushed): These add that lovely tang and body to the broth. Think cozy and robust.
Beef Broth: The flavorful liquid gold that ties everything together.
Seasonings: Think Italian herbs, salt, pepper, maybe even a dash of Worcestershire sauce or chili flakes for a kick.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and crumbly. Drain excess fat if needed—this keeps the soup from being greasy.
Sauté the Veggies: Add in chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until the onions are soft and translucent, and the carrots start to tenderize.
Add Garlic and Seasonings: Toss in the garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Pour in Liquids: Add the tomatoes and beef broth. Give everything a good stir to combine.
Add Potatoes: Stir in diced potatoes. These will cook right in the broth, soaking up all the flavor as they get tender.
Simmer: Cover and simmer over low heat for about 25–30 minutes, or until the veggies are fork-tender and the flavors have melded into cozy perfection.
Taste and Adjust: Give it a final taste. Add more salt, pepper, or a splash of hot sauce if you like a little heat.
Serve and Enjoy: Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy, and enjoy every warm, comforting spoonful.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 320
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
How to Serve Hamburger Soup
This soup is fabulous all on its own, but here are a few ways to elevate your meal:
Fresh Salads: A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
Crusty Bread: Dunking is mandatory. Go for garlic bread or a buttery roll.
Cheese Toppings: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar or Parmesan on top—melty cheese takes it over the top.
Crackers or Cornbread: Either one makes for a delightful textural contrast.
Freeze for Later: Serve now, save some for later—it reheats beautifully.
Additional Tips
Prep Ahead: Chop all your veggies ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Perfect for when you want dinner on the table fast.
Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to kick things up.
Make it Lighter: Swap in ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
Veggie Boost: Toss in corn, peas, green beans—whatever you’ve got hanging around.
Storage Tips: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezer Friendly: This soup freezes like a dream. Just portion, freeze, and reheat whenever you need a comforting meal.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A1: Absolutely! It’s a great way to lighten it up while still getting that savory goodness.
Q2: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A2: Yes! Brown the beef first, then throw everything in your slow cooker on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Q4: Can I freeze this soup?
A4: Totally. Let it cool completely, then freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
Q5: Can I add pasta or rice?
A5: Yup! Cook them separately and add before serving so they don’t soak up all the broth.
Q6: What vegetables can I add?
A6: Corn, peas, green beans, spinach—this soup is super flexible.
Q7: Is it gluten-free?
A7: It can be! Just double-check your broth and seasonings for hidden gluten.
Q8: Can I double the recipe?
A8: Go for it! It’s perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
Q9: How can I make it creamier?
A9: Add a splash of cream or stir in a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
Q10: What can I serve with it besides bread?
A10: Try a grilled cheese sandwich, cornbread, or even a baked potato on the side.
Conclusion
There’s just something irresistible about a bowl of Hamburger Soup. It’s classic, comforting, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re feeding your family, impressing guests, or just treating yourself to a big bowl of cozy goodness—this one’s a game-changer. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular in your dinner rotation. Happy cooking, friend!
Print
Hamburger Soup
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Hamburger Soup is a hearty, nostalgic, and easy-to-make dish packed with lean ground beef, tender vegetables, and rich tomato-based broth. It’s the perfect cozy meal for busy weeknights or chilly evenings, delivering comfort in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2–3 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced or crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Dash of Worcestershire sauce, chili flakes
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and crumbly. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until onions are translucent and carrots begin to soften.
- Add garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the tomatoes and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
- Add diced potatoes to the pot. Stir again.
- Cover and simmer over low heat for 25–30 minutes, or until vegetables are tender and flavors have melded.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add hot sauce if desired.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Prep veggies in advance to save time on busy nights.
- Add a splash of cream or sour cream for a creamier version.
- Customize with extra veggies like corn, peas, or green beans.
- Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Freeze leftovers in individual portions for easy meals later.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 55mg