Hamburger Soup Recipe
This hearty hamburger soup combines tender ground beef with a medley of fresh vegetables, creating a comforting, flavorful meal that warms from the inside out. Its rich tomato base and aromatic seasonings make each spoonful deeply satisfying.
Golden Yukon potatoes and a mix of garden vegetables add both texture and nutrition, balancing the savory meat with natural sweetness. The subtle smoky paprika and Italian seasoning elevate the flavors, turning a simple soup into a family-favorite classic.
Perfect for chilly evenings, this soup pairs beautifully with Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread, offering a complete, cozy meal. Easy to prepare and full of wholesome ingredients, it delivers warmth, taste, and comfort in every bite.
Hamburger Soup Ingredients
Ground Chuck – The hearty backbone of this soup, delivering rich, savory flavor and satisfying protein with every bite.
Yellow Onion & Celery – Aromatic base notes that soften and meld, creating depth and a subtle sweetness to complement the meat.
Green Bell Pepper & Garlic – Bright, fresh layers that infuse the soup with vibrant flavor and a gentle pungency.
Yukon Gold Potatoes – Tender, buttery bites that add texture, heartiness, and a comforting touch to the broth.
Mixed Vegetables – A colorful medley that enhances nutrition, texture, and visual appeal, making each spoonful wholesome and satisfying.
Tomato Paste & Diced Tomatoes – Concentrated tomato richness that balances the savory elements and forms the soul of the soup’s comforting base.
Beef Broth & Worcestershire Sauce – Savory liquids that unify flavors, adding depth, umami, and a subtly tangy warmth to every serving.
Italian Seasoning & Smoked Paprika – Aromatic spices that elevate the soup with complexity, warmth, and a hint of smokiness.
Hamburger Soup: Recipe Tips, Serving Suggestions, and FAQ
Recipe Tips
1. Brown the Meat Properly: For maximum flavor, break the ground beef into small pieces and allow it to brown evenly without overcrowding the pan. This step builds depth and richness in the soup.
2. Customize the Vegetables: While frozen mixed vegetables are convenient, feel free to add fresh options like carrots, green beans, or peas. Fresh vegetables can enhance texture and bring extra color to your soup.
3. Adjust Seasonings Gradually: Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce contribute to the soup’s complexity. Taste as you go and adjust salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preference for a balanced, well-rounded flavor.
What to Serve with Hamburger Soup
1. Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread: The creamy, slightly spicy cornbread perfectly complements the savory richness of the soup, offering a comforting and satisfying pairing for a hearty meal.
2. Crusty Artisan Bread: Serve with a warm, crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth. Rustic baguettes or sourdough slices add a chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with tender vegetables.
3. Simple Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette adds freshness and a touch of acidity, balancing the heartiness of the soup and creating a well-rounded dinner experience.
FAQ
Q1: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, hamburger soup tastes even better the next day. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze portions for longer storage.
Q2: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely. Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, though the flavor will be slightly less rich than with ground chuck.
Q3: How can I make the soup spicier?
Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during simmering to give the soup a gentle kick without overpowering the other flavors.
Q4: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, fresh diced tomatoes can be used. For best results, cook them down slightly before adding broth to maintain the rich, concentrated flavor the soup needs.
Hamburger Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare the Base
- In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, sautéing for approximately 5 minutes until softened. Incorporate the green bell pepper and minced garlic, cooking for an additional 3 minutes until tender and aromatic.
- Brown the Meat
- Introduce the ground beef to the pot, sprinkling in the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Break the meat into small, uniform pieces as it cooks, stirring continuously until fully browned and crumbly, about 6–8 minutes.
- Incorporate Tomato Flavor
- Stir in the tomato paste, allowing it to cook for 1–2 minutes until it releases its fragrance and thickens slightly, enhancing the depth of flavor.
- Combine Broth and Tomatoes
- Pour in the beef broth, undrained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir thoroughly to ensure a cohesive mixture.
- Add Vegetables and Simmer
- Gently fold in the diced potatoes and frozen mixed vegetables. Bring the soup to a vigorous boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Adjust seasoning to taste if necessary.
