Hamburger Vegetable Soup is one of those comforting meals that brings warmth to any chilly day. I fondly remember my first attempt at this recipe, pouring over the ingredients and marveling at how something so simple could yield such hearty goodness. Packed with ground beef and vibrant veggies, this soup is a go-to for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you crave something satisfying yet effortless. It’s not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl.
Why you’ll love this dish
This Hamburger Vegetable Soup is not only simple to prepare, but it’s also a fantastic way to make the most of your pantry staples. It’s a budget-friendly choice that pleases picky eaters, making it an excellent option for families. Imagine a meal that warms your soul and leaves your wallet intact — that’s what you get with this soup! It’s perfect for a filling weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, and it can easily please a crowd.
“This soup is my go-to for everything! Quick to make, and every time I serve it, everyone asks for the recipe. It’s a family favorite!”
Step-by-step overview
Cooking Hamburger Vegetable Soup is a straightforward process. Begin by browning the ground beef, then add your vegetables and seasonings to build layers of flavor. Next, you’ll combine everything into a harmonious pot of goodness. A simmer of about 30 minutes transforms basic ingredients into a delicious meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
What you’ll need
Gather these items to create Hamburger Vegetable Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to substitute ground turkey for a leaner option, or use vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist. The key is to have hearty ingredients that combine well together.
Directions to follow
- Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables become tender.
- Stir in the can of diced tomatoes, beef broth, and frozen mixed vegetables.
- Sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
- Serve the soup hot, enjoying its rich flavors.
Best ways to enjoy it
This Hamburger Vegetable Soup is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the experience with a twist. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread or a sprinkle of freshly grated cheese for extra flavor. A side salad or a melty grilled cheese can take your meal to the next level. For those chilly evenings, consider topping it with crushed crackers for a delightful crunch!
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your leftovers fresh, allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days, making it easy to reheat on busy days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup in portions. Just ensure to leave some space in the container, as liquids expand while freezing. When reheating, heat thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F for safe eating.
Helpful cooking tips
To enrich the flavor further, consider sautéing the vegetables in a splash of olive oil before adding them to the ground beef. If you’re short on time, a slow cooker can be used to simmer the soup throughout the day, filling your home with irresistible aromas. A bay leaf added during simmering can add depth, too, but remember to remove it before serving!
Creative twists
Don’t hesitate to put your own spin on this recipe! Add beans for extra protein or substitute in different vegetables based on what you have on hand. You could even spice it up with red pepper flakes for a kick or use fresh herbs like parsley for a finishing touch. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to customize this dish to your taste buds.
Common questions
How long does it take to make Hamburger Vegetable Soup?
From start to finish, you can have this soup ready in about 45 minutes, making it a perfect weekday meal option.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day, as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it a day ahead and simply reheat it when you’re ready to enjoy.
What should I do with leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can freeze the soup for up to three months, just remember to leave some room in the container for the soup to expand as it freezes.
PrintHamburger Vegetable Soup
A comforting Hamburger Vegetable Soup packed with ground beef and vibrant veggies, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Meat
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables become tender.
- Stir in the can of diced tomatoes, beef broth, and frozen mixed vegetables.
- Sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
- Serve the soup hot, enjoying its rich flavors.
Notes
For a leaner option, substitute ground turkey; for a vegetarian twist, use vegetable broth. This soup tastes even better the next day!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
