Hamburger Soup
This hearty hamburger soup is the ultimate cold-weather comfort, brimming with rich flavors and nourishing ingredients. Every spoonful is packed with tender vegetables, savory ground beef, and a warming blend of spices to satisfy any craving.
Perfectly balanced with a tomato-based broth and seasoned with Italian herbs and smoked paprika, this soup offers a depth of flavor that elevates it beyond typical soups. The combination of Yukon gold potatoes and mixed vegetables creates a wholesome, filling dish ideal for family dinners.
Pair it with Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread for a complete, cozy meal that warms you from the inside out. It’s a delicious way to bring everyone to the table, offering comfort and flavor in every bite.
Hamburger Soup Ingredients
- Olive Oil – A gentle base that brings out the aroma of sautéed vegetables, adding depth and richness to every spoonful.
- Yellow Onion – Adds a natural sweetness and savory depth, setting the flavor foundation for this cozy soup.
- Ground Chuck – Provides hearty texture and satisfying richness, making this soup as filling as it is flavorful.
- Italian Seasoning & Smoked Paprika – A blend of herbs and a smoky kick that elevate the soup’s flavor, giving it a warm, comforting finish.
- Tomato Paste & Diced Tomatoes – Intensify the tomato base, adding body, tang, and a rich, savory depth that ties the flavors together.
- Yukon Gold Potatoes – Tender and buttery, they add substance to the soup, creating a satisfying, wholesome bite in every spoonful.
- Frozen Mixed Vegetables – A colorful mix that complements the potatoes and ground beef, bringing balance and added nutrition to the dish.
These essential ingredients transform a simple hamburger soup into a satisfying, flavorful meal perfect for any chilly night.
Recipe Tips
- Achieve a Perfect Texture
For a well-balanced texture, it’s essential to sauté the vegetables until they’re softened but not mushy. Start with onions and celery, which release a deep, savory aroma when cooked. Adding garlic and bell peppers a few minutes later preserves their flavor while adding a touch of sweetness and crunch. To avoid a watery consistency, let the tomato paste cook for 1-2 minutes until it thickens, which will enhance the soup’s overall richness. - Customize the Seasoning to Your Taste
This hamburger soup recipe is highly versatile, allowing you to adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences. Smoked paprika adds a warming, smoky flavor that complements the beef, but feel free to add cayenne for extra heat or swap in fresh herbs like thyme for a fresh twist. Worcestershire sauce adds umami depth, but a dash of soy sauce or even a hint of red wine can make the soup uniquely yours. Taste and adjust as you go for best results. - Enhance Flavor with Broth Selection
Using a low-sodium beef broth is recommended so that you have full control over the soup’s saltiness. For an even richer taste, consider blending beef broth with a bit of chicken or vegetable stock. This combination enhances the flavor complexity without overpowering the dish. If you’re short on broth, water with a touch of bouillon paste or powder can work as a substitute. Just be cautious with seasoning to maintain balance.
What to Serve with Hamburger Soup
- Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread
This soup is perfectly complemented by a side of warm, spicy, and cheesy Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread. The mild heat of jalapeño paired with the sharpness of cheddar adds a bold flavor that complements the soup’s savory richness. Together, they create a cozy, filling meal that’s hard to beat on chilly nights. - Garden Salad with Light Vinaigrette
A fresh garden salad provides a refreshing contrast to this hearty soup. Toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette. The acidity from the dressing balances the rich flavors of the soup, and the crisp vegetables add a nice textural contrast to every bite. - Toasted Garlic Bread
For an extra layer of comfort, serve with toasted garlic bread. Its crunchy texture and buttery garlic flavor pair beautifully with the hearty, tomato-rich soup. Plus, it’s perfect for dipping into the soup, ensuring you don’t leave a drop behind!
FAQ
- Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes! Hamburger soup often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. - How can I make this soup healthier?
To lighten up the soup, consider using lean ground beef or even ground turkey. You can also reduce the salt and use more fresh vegetables for added nutrients. - Can I freeze hamburger soup?
Absolutely. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop. - What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, green beans, or even spinach. This soup is highly adaptable, and additional veggies add both color and nutrition. Just adjust cooking times to ensure everything is tender.
Hamburger Soup
Our hamburger soup is filled with an assortment of vegetables and just the right amount of ground beef to create a hearty, satisfying meal—perfect for a chilly evening. Pair it with Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread for a comforting and delicious experience.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground chuck
- 1 Tbsp. olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion chopped (about 2 1/2 cups)
- 2 ribs celery chopped (about 1 cup)
- 1 large green bell pepper chopped (about 1 1/4 cups)
- 3 cloves garlic minced (about 1 Tbsp.)
- 1 lb. Yukon gold potatoes peeled and diced into 1/2 in. pieces
- 1 12 oz. package frozen mixed vegetables
- 2 tsp. dried Italian seasoning
- 2 tsp. smoked paprika
- 1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
- 3/4 tsp. ground black pepper
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 4 cups reduced-sodium beef broth
- 1 28 oz. can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 15 oz. can tomato sauce
- 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Base
- Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the onions and celery, cooking for approximately 5 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in the bell pepper and garlic, cooking for an additional 3 minutes until tender.
- Brown the Meat
- Add the ground beef to the pot along with the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Break the meat into small pieces as it cooks, stirring until it is browned and crumbly, about 6-8 minutes.
- Incorporate Tomato Flavor
- Add the tomato paste to the mixture, cooking for 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant and thickens slightly.
- Combine Broth and Tomatoes
- Pour in the beef broth, undrained diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, stirring well to integrate the ingredients.
- Add Vegetables and Simmer
- Stir in the diced potatoes and frozen mixed vegetables. Bring the soup to a boil over high heat, then lower the heat, cover, and allow it to simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve warm with your favorite side.
