Name: Hearty Hamburger Soup for Cozy Family Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground Beef (lean ground beef (93/7) is a healthier choice); 1 medium Onion (finely diced); 2 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 tsp Salt (adjust to taste); 2 cups Chopped Yukon Gold Potatoes (cut into small pieces); 4 cups Beef Broth (full-salt is recommended); 10.5 oz Condensed Tomato Soup (substitute with other tomato products if needed); 14.5 oz Petite Diced Tomatoes (do not drain); 2 cups Frozen Mixed Vegetables (typically includes carrots, peas, corn, and green beans); 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce; 1 tbsp Dried Parsley (for garnish); 1 tsp Dried Basil (or fresh if available)

On a chilly evening when the wind howls outside, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of a simmering pot of Hamburger Soup filling your kitchen with delicious aromas. This one-pot wonder offers a simple yet hearty blend of ground beef, tender potatoes, and vibrant vegetables swimming in a rich tomato broth. Not only is this Hamburger Soup a crowd-pleaser, but it also comes together in no time, making it the perfect remedy for busy nights and hungry bellies. Plus, it’s incredibly budget-friendly and adaptable; you can toss in whatever veggies you have on hand or switch up proteins for a personal twist. So, are you ready to bring a little comfort to your dinner table? Let’s dive into this heartwarming recipe!

Why is Hamburger Soup a Family Favorite?

Comforting, hearty goodness: This Hamburger Soup is a warm hug in a bowl, combining rich flavors with wholesome ingredients.
One-pot ease: No one wants to spend hours cleaning up—this recipe keeps it simple, with only one pot to wash!
Budget-friendly meal: Utilizing ground beef and everyday veggies, it’s an economical choice for families.
Versatile options: Swap in any vegetables from your fridge or choose a different protein to make it your own! You might also enjoy this Turkey Vegetable Soup for a twist.
Quick and satisfying: In just about 40 minutes, you can serve a satisfying meal that’ll impress everyone. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when comfort is a must!

Hamburger Soup Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to create a delicious Hamburger Soup.

For the Soup

Ground Beef – Provides the main protein; lean ground beef (93/7) is a healthier choice.
Onion – Adds savory depth; use yellow or white onions, finely diced for best flavor.
Garlic – Enhances flavor; fresh minced, jarred chopped, or garlic paste works well.
Salt – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste, especially with low-sodium broth.
Chopped Yukon Gold Potatoes – Offers heartiness and texture; cut into small pieces for quicker cooking.
Beef Broth – Forms the soup base; full-salt beef broth is recommended for richer flavor.
Condensed Tomato Soup – Adds creaminess and robust tomato flavor; feel free to substitute with other tomato products as needed.
Petite Diced Tomatoes – Contributes acidity and sweetness; don’t drain the can before adding.
Frozen Mixed Vegetables – Provides added nutrition and convenience; typically includes carrots, peas, corn, and green beans.
Worcestershire Sauce – Infuses umami flavor; an essential ingredient for the best taste.
Dried Parsley – For garnish and fresh flavor; gives the dish a pop of color.
Dried Basil – Complements the tomato flavor beautifully; use fresh basil for added aroma if available.

Remember, this Hamburger Soup is a canvas for your creativity—don’t hesitate to add your favorite ingredients!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hamburger Soup

Step 1: Brown the Meat
In a large soup pot, heat over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, diced onion, minced garlic, and salt, cooking and crumbling the beef until it’s no longer pink—about 5 to 7 minutes. Ensure the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Once done, drain any excess grease to keep your Hamburger Soup lean and delicious.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
While the meat is browning, peel and chop the Yukon Gold potatoes into small (1/2-inch) pieces for quicker cooking. This step ensures the potatoes will be tender and meld beautifully into the soup. Set them aside, ready to join the hearty mixture.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the chopped potatoes to your pot along with the beef broth, condensed tomato soup, petite diced tomatoes (don’t drain!), frozen mixed vegetables, Worcestershire sauce, dried parsley, and dried basil. Stir well to combine all flavors, creating a vibrant and hearty base for your Hamburger Soup.

Step 4: Bring to a Boil
Increase the heat to high and bring the soup mixture to a rapid boil—this should take about 5 minutes. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes. This simmering time allows the flavors to meld and the potatoes to soften perfectly.

Step 5: Final Seasoning
After 30 minutes, uncover the pot and give the Hamburger Soup a good stir. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt if needed, especially if you’re using low-sodium broth. The texture should be thick and comforting, with all ingredients beautifully integrated before serving your family a bowl of warmth.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Hamburger Soup ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time during busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables, specifically the onions, garlic, and Yukon Gold potatoes, and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Additionally, you can brown the ground beef and store it in the refrigerator for a day. When you’re ready to finish cooking, simply combine the prepped ingredients with the beef broth, condensed tomato soup, and other components in your pot, and bring it to a boil. By pre-chopping and cooking the components, you’ll enjoy a meal that’s just as delicious and comforting while saving precious time when hunger strikes.

Hamburger Soup Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this Hamburger Soup uniquely yours with these delightful twists!

Lean Turkey: Swap ground beef for ground turkey to create a lighter version with a subtly different flavor. The richness of the soup stays intact, but the calories drop, making it a win-win!
Beans or Lentils: Incorporate your choice of beans or lentils for added texture and nutrition. This easy swap not only brings a different flavor but also ramps up the fiber content, making for a heartier dish.
Sweet Potatoes: Replace Yukon Gold potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweet, nutritious twist. Their natural sweetness contrasts beautifully with the savory elements and adds vibrant color to the soup.
Seasonal Vegetables: Toss in any seasonal veggies you have on hand, like zucchini or bell peppers, for a fresh touch. This adds variety and keeps the soup exciting, allowing you to enjoy produce at its peak!
Spicy Kick: If you’re feeling adventurous, sprinkle in some cayenne or chili powder to amp up the heat. The warmth enhances the tomato flavors and gives your soup an exciting depth!
Creamy Version: For a creamier soup, stir in a dollop of sour cream or a splash of heavy cream at the end. This elevates the texture and adds a nice richness that’s comforting and indulgent.
Vegetable Broth: For a vegetarian-friendly option, swap the beef broth for vegetable broth and use plant-based proteins. This change does wonders for keeping it hearty without meat.

Feeling inspired? You can customize this soup in endless ways! And if you’re keen on trying something different, check out this delicious Colcannon Soup Flavorful for a creamy, veggie-packed alternative!

Expert Tips for Hamburger Soup

Simmer for Flavor: Let the soup simmer for at least 30 minutes; rushing this step will result in less depth of flavor.
Cut Potatoes Small: Ensure potato chunks are 1/2-inch or smaller to guarantee they cook through and soften properly.
Taste and Adjust: Always check the seasoning at the end, especially if using low-salt beef broth; adjust salt accordingly for the best Hamburger Soup experience.
Add Spice: For a kick, consider adding cayenne or chili powder to enhance flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Mix Veggies: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables based on what you have in your fridge, making the soup adaptable and exciting!

What to Serve with Hearty One-Pot Hamburger Soup

Looking to create a comforting meal that perfectly complements a bowl of savory goodness?

Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up the rich broth, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite.
Simple Green Salad: Fresh greens bring a light, crisp contrast that balances the heartiness of the soup. A tangy vinaigrette can brighten the overall meal.
Cornbread: Its slightly sweet flavor pairs beautifully with the savory notes of the Hamburger Soup, making for a warm, comforting side.
Cheesy Garlic Bread: Enhance the dinner experience with buttery, toasted slices topped with melted cheese; it’s decadently delicious.
Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant veggie adds both nutrition and a light, fresh flavor that complements the hearty soup.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, this warm, sweet treat provides a delightful contrast to the savory soup; the cinnamon aroma is irresistible!
Iced Tea: A chilled glass of refreshing iced tea pairs perfectly, cleansing the palate between spoonfuls of rich soup.
Homemade Biscuits: Fluffy and buttery, these biscuits are perfect for dipping into the soup and adding a comforting element to the meal.
Pickled Cucumbers: Their tangy crunch cuts through the soup’s richness, providing a refreshing zing that will surprise your taste buds.

How to Store and Freeze Hamburger Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. Make sure the soup is completely cooled before sealing to keep it fresh.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Hamburger Soup in portion-sized airtight containers for up to 3 months. Be sure to leave some space at the top for expansion.

Reheating: Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring regularly until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals until hot.

Meal Prep: This Hamburger Soup is perfect for meal prep! Divide into individual servings for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Hamburger Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of ground beef is best for Hamburger Soup?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using lean ground beef (93/7) as it provides excellent flavor while being healthier. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, ground turkey is a fantastic substitute that still offers hearty goodness.

How long can I store leftover Hamburger Soup in the fridge?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Make sure the soup has cooled completely before sealing the container to maintain its freshness and flavor.

Can I freeze Hamburger Soup, and how do I do it?
Very! To freeze Hamburger Soup, allow it to cool completely. Then, portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving a little space at the top to allow for expansion. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. For perfect reheating, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

What should I do if my Hamburger Soup is too thick?
If you find that your soup ended up too thick, don’t worry! Simply add a bit more beef broth or water, one cup at a time, while stirring until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, it’s all about balancing the flavors and textures to your liking.

Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind for this recipe?
Definitely! If anyone in your family has allergies, be sure to check that all ingredients, especially broth and frozen vegetables, are free from common allergens like gluten or dairy. For pets, it’s best to avoid serving the soup to them, as ingredients like onions and garlic can be harmful to dogs. Always make sure to enjoy the meal safely!

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen in Hamburger Soup?
Absolutely, the more the merrier! You can use fresh vegetables such as diced zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots instead of frozen mixed vegetables. Just be sure to chop them into small pieces and add them to the pot as you’re combining the ingredients. Fresh options will enhance the soup’s flavor and add a lovely texture.