When life gets busy, and you need to make a meal that’s easy on the wallet, comforting, and can feed the whole family, nothing quite beats a classic "Poor Man’s Soup." It’s the kind of dish that brings together simple ingredients in a way that creates something hearty, flavorful, and filling without costing a lot of money. You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen or break the bank to create a dish that satisfies.
This recipe, featuring ground beef as the main protein, is a perfect example of how humble ingredients can turn into something delicious. Ground beef is budget-friendly, and when combined with vegetables, broth, and a handful of pantry staples, it transforms into a cozy, savory soup that feels like a warm hug. Plus, this soup is so versatile that you can modify it based on what you have on hand or how you like your soup. So, whether you’re cooking for yourself or a group, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Let’s dive into the details and see just how easy it is to make this comforting soup!
Poor Man’s Soup With Ground Beef Recipe
This recipe isn’t just cheap-it’s also packed with flavors and nutrients. The ground beef brings a satisfying depth, the vegetables add freshness and texture, and the broth ties everything together, making for a meal that’s filling and comforting without the fancy ingredients. You might even have most of what you need sitting in your kitchen already.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s the beauty of this recipe-it’s all about simple ingredients that come together in a way that feels almost magical. You don’t need a special grocery run to make this soup. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients
- Ground Beef – 1 lb (lean ground beef works best, but you can also use regular beef for a richer flavor)
- Potatoes – 3 to 4 medium-sized, peeled and diced (for a starchy base)
- Carrots – 2 medium-sized, peeled and chopped (adds sweetness and texture)
- Onion – 1 large, diced (for that savory base)
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced (adds that punch of flavor)
- Beef Broth – 4 cups (you can use chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water if you’re in a pinch)
- Canned Tomatoes – 1 can (14.5 oz), diced (for acidity and flavor depth)
- Frozen Peas – 1 cup (adds color and a pop of freshness)
- Seasonings – Salt, pepper, dried thyme, dried oregano, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for some subtle heat
Optional Add-ins
- Frozen Corn – 1 cup (adds sweetness and a bit of texture)
- Bay Leaves – 1 or 2 (for a deeper herbal note)
- Celery – 2 stalks, diced (for extra crunch and flavor)
- Parsley – Fresh, chopped for garnish (adds freshness at the end)
Cooking Instructions
Ready to cook up this comfort food? Follow these easy steps:
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Prepare The Vegetables
- Peel and dice your potatoes, carrots, and onion.
- Mince the garlic and set everything aside for easy access.
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Cook The Ground Beef
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it.
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Sauté The Vegetables
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant.
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Add The Broth And Tomatoes
- Pour in the beef broth and add the diced tomatoes (with juices). Stir everything together, scraping any bits from the bottom of the pot to incorporate the flavors.
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Simmer
- Add the diced potatoes, dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
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Add Frozen Peas (and Optional Add-ins)
- Stir in the frozen peas (and any optional ingredients like corn or celery). Let the soup simmer for another 5-10 minutes, until the peas are heated through and the flavors are well combined.
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Taste And Adjust
- Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if needed-more salt, pepper, or even a dash of hot sauce if you want a kick!
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Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Ingredient Insights
Understanding the role each ingredient plays in your soup can elevate your cooking game. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Ground Beef: The heart of this soup, ground beef is affordable, easy to cook, and packs in protein and flavor. It adds a savory depth that makes the soup hearty and filling.
- Potatoes: Potatoes are the perfect starch for this soup. They absorb the flavors of the broth, become tender, and give the soup a satisfying body.
- Carrots: These add a subtle sweetness and balance out the savory meat and broth. Carrots also give a nice bite, creating texture and color.
- Beef Broth: The broth ties everything together, providing a rich base to the soup. You can go with a store-bought broth or make your own, depending on how much time you have.
- Canned Tomatoes: Tomatoes provide a little acidity, cutting through the richness of the beef, and adding a layer of complexity.
- Frozen Peas: While not an overpowering flavor, peas add a pop of color and freshness to the soup. They also bring a small touch of sweetness and texture.
Expert Tips
If you want to take your Poor Man’s Soup to the next level, here are a few expert tips:
- Brown the Beef Properly: Don’t rush the browning of the ground beef. Let it cook until it’s deeply brown and caramelized-this builds flavor and adds richness to the soup.
- Add Herbs Early: Dried herbs (like thyme and oregano) infuse their flavor over time. Add them early in the cooking process to allow their flavors to develop.
- Simmer Low and Slow: Give the soup time to meld together. The longer it simmers, the deeper the flavor will get.
- Customize with Leftovers: This soup is the perfect place to use up leftover veggies, meats, or grains. Add in cooked rice, quinoa, or even some leftover roast chicken if you have it.
- Make It Ahead: Soups always taste better the next day! Let it sit in the fridge overnight, and the flavors will intensify. This soup freezes really well too, so make a big batch and store it for later.
Recipe Variations
Want to switch things up? There are so many ways to put your own spin on this soup:
- Swap the Protein: While ground beef is traditional, you could use ground turkey, chicken, or pork. Even ground sausage adds a spicy kick!
- Add Beans: For more protein and fiber, throw in a can of beans (kidney beans, black beans, or white beans) for a heartier texture.
- Go Vegan: Leave out the meat entirely, and you’ve got a vegan-friendly version! Use vegetable broth and add more veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or squash.
- Spicy Kick: If you like heat, throw in a diced jalapeño or some chili powder. A dash of hot sauce at the end works wonders, too.
- Creamy Version: Add a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving for a creamier, richer soup.
Final Words
This Poor Man’s Soup recipe is one of those meals that feels like a throwback to simpler times. It’s easy, nourishing, and the kind of dish that makes you feel right at home, no matter where you are. Plus, it’s so adaptable-whether you’re on a tight budget, trying to clean out your pantry, or just looking for a comforting bowl of something warm, this soup hits all the right notes.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For Poor Man’s Soup With Ground Beef?
The basic ingredients for poor man’s soup with ground beef include ground beef, potatoes, carrots, onions, celery, canned tomatoes, beef broth, garlic, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and thyme. Optional additions may include frozen peas or corn.
Can I Make Poor Man’s Soup With Ground Beef In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can make poor man’s soup with ground beef in a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef and add all other ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
What Kind Of Ground Beef Is Best For This Soup?
For poor man’s soup with ground beef, lean ground beef (such as 90% lean) is typically recommended to keep the soup from being too greasy. However, you can use fattier ground beef for a richer flavor, just be sure to drain excess fat after browning the beef.
Can I Add Beans Or Other Vegetables To The Soup?
Yes, beans like kidney beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas can be added for more protein and fiber. You can also include additional vegetables such as green beans, corn, or bell peppers for added variety and nutrition.
How Long Does Poor Man’s Soup With Ground Beef Last In The Fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, poor man’s soup with ground beef will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. If you’d like it to last longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead Of Ground Beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a leaner alternative to ground beef and can be used in poor man’s soup. While the flavor will be slightly different, it will still work well in the recipe, especially if you add seasonings and vegetables.
What Can I Use Instead Of Beef Broth In Poor Man’s Soup?
If you don’t have beef broth, you can substitute with chicken broth, vegetable broth, or even water combined with bouillon cubes or granules. The flavor will vary slightly depending on the substitute, but it will still be delicious.
Is There A Vegetarian Version Of Poor Man’s Soup With Ground Beef?
Yes, a vegetarian version can be made by using plant-based ground meat, like lentils or meatless crumbles, in place of ground beef. You can also enhance the soup with additional vegetables or beans for a more hearty texture.
Can I Make Poor Man’s Soup With Ground Beef Ahead Of Time?
Yes, poor man’s soup with ground beef can be made ahead of time. In fact, it often tastes better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
How Do I Thicken Poor Man’s Soup With Ground Beef?
To thicken the soup, you can mash some of the potatoes or vegetables directly in the pot to release their starch. Alternatively, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the soup to achieve a thicker consistency.