Hamburger Soup – Hearty, Comforting & Easy to Make
Few dishes are as comforting as a warm bowl of hamburger soup. Packed with ground beef, tender vegetables, and a rich, savory broth, this recipe is a family favorite that’s both budget-friendly and nourishing. It’s often called a “poor man’s soup” because it uses simple pantry staples, yet the flavors are rich enough to please even the pickiest eaters.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner, a meal-prep friendly recipe, or a soup that freezes beautifully, hamburger soup is the answer. It’s versatile, easy to make, and ready in under an hour.
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (lean, 85/15 works well)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 6 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 cup green beans (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step by Step Cooking Guide
- Brown the beef – In a large pot, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add aromatics – Stir in onion and garlic. Cook 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Build the base – Add carrots, celery, and potatoes. Stir to combine.
- Add liquids – Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir well.
- Season & simmer – Add Italian seasoning, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Add veggies – Stir in corn and green beans. Cook another 10 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Finish & serve – Remove bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Cooking Time & Serving Size
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Serving Size: 6–8 servings
Tips & Variations
- Add pasta or rice – Stir in cooked macaroni or rice for a heartier version.
- Spicy twist – Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño.
- Make it creamy – Stir in ½ cup heavy cream or evaporated milk at the end.
- Veggie-loaded – Add zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrients.
- Slow cooker method – Brown beef, then add all ingredients to the crockpot. Cook on low for 6–8 hours.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fat | 11 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
Healthy Alternatives
- Low-carb/Keto: Swap potatoes for cauliflower florets or zucchini.
- Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free; just ensure broth and seasonings are GF-certified.
- Low-fat: Use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Sugar-free: Skip tomato sauce and replace with crushed tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hamburger soup hot with a side of crusty bread, cornbread muffins, or a fresh green salad. It’s the ultimate comfort meal for chilly nights, meal prepping, or feeding a crowd. Leftovers taste even better the next day, making this recipe a must-have for busy families.
Hamburger soup proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor—making it a timeless recipe you’ll return to again and again.
FAQ’s
Q1: Can I freeze hamburger soup?
Yes! Let it cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
Q2: Can I make this with ground turkey or chicken?
Absolutely! It will be lighter in calories but still just as delicious.
Q3: Do I have to peel the potatoes?
Not necessarily. If using Yukon Gold or red potatoes, you can leave the skins on for extra texture and nutrients.
Q4: How long does it last in the fridge?
Store in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days.
Q5: Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Brown the beef on sauté mode, then add all ingredients. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, quick release, and serve.
