Let’s talk comfort food-especially when it’s something as nostalgic and hearty as a Hamburger Soup. You might think of this dish as just another one-pot meal, but trust me, it’s so much more. This classic recipe brings together the best parts of a hamburger-juicy beef, savory spices, and that satisfying texture-with the warmth and coziness of a vegetable-packed soup. It’s perfect for chilly days, lazy weekends, or when you just need something that’ll fill you up without a fuss.
Now, this isn’t your average soup. It’s an all-in-one comfort meal that can be made quickly with pantry staples, but still delivers that home-cooked feel. What’s even better? It’s versatile, and you can make it exactly how you like it. Whether you prefer a chunky, vegetable-forward soup or a more broth-heavy variation, there’s room to play.
Let’s dive into a detailed recipe so you can get this delicious soup simmering on your stovetop in no time.
Old Fashioned Hamburger Soup Recipe
Here’s the beauty of this recipe: it’s so simple, yet packed with layers of flavor. The ground beef gives it that rich, meaty essence, while the vegetables balance things out with freshness and crunch. And the broth? It’s what ties everything together, adding just enough depth to make you want another bowl.
Ingredients Needed
Before we jump into the cooking, let’s make sure you have everything ready to go.
- Ground beef (1 lb): The heart of the soup. You’ll want a good lean beef here, ideally 85/15 for that perfect balance of flavor and fat.
- Onion (1 medium): Adds sweetness and flavor base to the dish. Dice it finely to help it blend with the other ingredients.
- Garlic (2-3 cloves): This will really bring out the savory side of the soup. Fresh garlic works best.
- Carrots (2 large): A natural sweetness and crunch. Peel and chop them into bite-sized pieces.
- Celery (2 stalks): Adds a crisp, fresh flavor. Dice these to match the carrot chunks.
- Potatoes (2 medium): Choose starchy potatoes (like Russets) for their ability to hold up in soup and soak up flavor. Cut into cubes.
- Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz): A classic tomato base to add depth and color.
- Beef broth (4 cups): The foundation of the soup, providing the meaty flavor. Use low-sodium if you’re trying to cut back on salt.
- Tomato paste (2 tbsp): For a deeper, richer tomato flavor.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 tbsp): A splash of this adds umami and a little tang.
- Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, Italian seasoning): Salt and pepper are a must. Italian seasoning gives it that comforting herby note.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds color and a fresh finish to the soup once it’s ready.
Cooking Instructions
The process itself is pretty straightforward, and it comes together quickly. This is not a recipe you need to fuss over for hours. Just follow these steps for a delicious homemade meal:
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Brown The Ground Beef
- Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula as it cooks. You want it to get nice and brown, which brings out all the delicious beefy flavors.
- Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the soup from being greasy.
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Sauté The Vegetables
- Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onions turn translucent and the vegetables soften up.
- Stir often so nothing burns. This step infuses the soup with aromatic flavors right from the start.
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Add The Potatoes And Tomatoes
- Toss in the diced potatoes and the canned tomatoes (with their juices). The potatoes give the soup that hearty, starchy base, while the tomatoes add a touch of acidity to balance everything.
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Pour In The Broth And Simmer
- Add the beef broth to the pot, followed by the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together until the paste is dissolved.
- Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
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Final Touches
- Taste the soup for seasoning and adjust if necessary. You can add a bit more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce depending on your preference.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Ingredient Insights
Let’s break down why each ingredient in this soup is important, so you can understand the role each plays in making this dish so satisfying.
- Ground Beef: It’s the star of the show, providing that rich, savory flavor that makes this more than just a vegetable soup. Choosing lean beef helps keep the soup from being too greasy but still gives you that hearty satisfaction.
- Onion and Garlic: These two are the flavor-building blocks of most savory dishes. Together, they create an aromatic foundation that makes the soup smell as good as it tastes.
- Carrots and Celery: These vegetables add not only texture but a slight sweetness that balances the richness of the beef. They also add nutrition-fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Potatoes: Think of them as little sponges that soak up the flavors of the broth. Potatoes make the soup more filling and hearty, transforming it from a simple broth-based dish into a substantial meal.
- Tomatoes and Tomato Paste: The tomatoes bring a natural acidity that cuts through the richness of the beef, while the paste deepens the overall tomato flavor. Together, they make the broth much more flavorful and satisfying.
Expert Tips
To take this recipe from good to great, here are some pro tips that will help elevate your hamburger soup.
- Sear the Beef Well: When you brown the ground beef, don’t rush it. Let it get really brown before adding the vegetables. That caramelized beef will add an extra layer of depth and richness to your soup.
- Use Homemade Broth: If you have time, homemade beef broth can make a huge difference in flavor. It’s richer and more complex than store-bought, making the soup even more flavorful.
- Adjust the Texture: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash a few of the potatoes as the soup simmers, which will naturally thicken the broth. For a more broth-forward version, leave the potatoes in larger chunks.
- Let It Sit: Like most soups, this one tastes even better the next day once all the flavors have melded together. Make it ahead of time and let it rest in the fridge overnight for maximum flavor.
- Spice It Up: If you love a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some extra kick.
Recipe Variations
This is one of those soups that can easily be modified to fit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few variations to try:
- Swap the Beef: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb for a lighter or more exotic twist. You could also go plant-based with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
- Add Greens: Toss in some spinach, kale, or Swiss chard near the end of cooking for an extra nutritional boost. Greens also add color and freshness.
- Swap Veggies: If you’re not a fan of one of the veggies, feel free to substitute. Zucchini, parsnips, or green beans can all work in place of carrots or celery.
- Make It Low-Carb: Replace the potatoes with cauliflower florets or turnips to cut down on carbs while still keeping that hearty, filling texture.
- Add Beans: For a more filling soup with extra protein and fiber, add a can of kidney beans or black beans.
Final Words
This Old Fashioned Hamburger Soup isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s a reminder of home, of comfort, and of how something so simple can taste so good. It’s one of those recipes that you can keep coming back to, tweaking it every time based on what you have in your fridge or what you’re in the mood for. It’s nourishing, easy to make, and most importantly, it brings people together. So, whether you’re feeding your family or hosting a cozy dinner party, this soup will always impress.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Typically Used In An Old Fashioned Hamburger Soup Recipe?
An old fashioned hamburger soup recipe typically includes ground beef, onions, carrots, celery, potatoes, tomatoes, beef broth, and various seasonings such as garlic, salt, pepper, and dried herbs like thyme or bay leaves. Some versions may also include peas or corn.
How Do You Make The Base Of The Soup For Old Fashioned Hamburger Soup?
To make the base of the soup, first, brown the ground beef in a large pot or Dutch oven. Once the beef is cooked, remove excess fat, then add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook the vegetables until softened, then add diced potatoes, canned tomatoes, and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook until the vegetables are tender.
Can I Use Lean Ground Beef For An Old Fashioned Hamburger Soup Recipe?
Yes, lean ground beef can be used in an old fashioned hamburger soup recipe. It helps reduce the fat content in the soup, though you may need to add a little extra seasoning to enhance the flavor, as lean beef has less fat for richness.
What Can I Substitute For Beef Broth In An Old Fashioned Hamburger Soup Recipe?
If you don’t have beef broth, you can substitute it with chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water with bouillon cubes or paste. Keep in mind that the flavor will vary depending on the substitute you choose.
Can I Make Old Fashioned Hamburger Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can make old fashioned hamburger soup in a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables, then transfer everything to the slow cooker with the broth and seasonings. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
How Long Should I Cook Old Fashioned Hamburger Soup?
Old fashioned hamburger soup should be simmered for about 45 minutes to an hour, allowing the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become tender. If using a slow cooker, it can cook for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.
Can I Add Pasta Or Rice To An Old Fashioned Hamburger Soup Recipe?
Yes, you can add small pasta like elbow macaroni or rice to the soup for added texture. If adding pasta, cook it separately and stir it in at the end to avoid overcooking. If adding rice, it can be added directly to the soup but should be cooked until tender.
Is It Necessary To Use Fresh Vegetables For Old Fashioned Hamburger Soup?
While fresh vegetables are preferred for optimal flavor, you can use frozen or canned vegetables in a pinch. Fresh vegetables, however, provide the best texture and depth of flavor in the soup.
Can I Freeze Old Fashioned Hamburger Soup?
Yes, old fashioned hamburger soup can be frozen. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove or in the microwave.
What Can I Serve With Old Fashioned Hamburger Soup?
Old fashioned hamburger soup pairs well with crusty bread, crackers, or a side salad. For a heartier meal, you can serve it with a grilled cheese sandwich or cornbread.