Hamburger Soup
Hamburger soup is one of those timeless dishes that has been passed from kitchen to kitchen for generations. It feels familiar, cozy, and truly comforting, yet it remains flexible enough to suit almost any family’s taste. What makes this soup so beloved is the way simple ingredients come together to create something deeply satisfying. Ground beef, vegetables, herbs, and broth simmer into a warm bowl of flavor that tastes like home no matter when you serve it.
This soup is casual and unfussy, perfect for busy evenings, chilly days, or times when you want to rely on pantry staples. Every spoonful brings the heartiness of seasoned ground beef, the sweetness of simmered vegetables, and the savory richness of broth. It is balanced, wholesome, and incredibly straightforward, which is why so many people keep it in their weeknight rotation.
One of the advantages of hamburger soup is its adaptability. You can make it thick and stew-like or more brothy depending on what you prefer. You can add extra vegetables, swap ingredients, or keep it as classic as possible. This flexibility ensures that it turns out well no matter how you approach it. It also reheats beautifully, making it ideal for lunches or meal prep.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 large carrots, sliced
3 celery stalks, sliced
3 to 4 potatoes, diced
1 can diced tomatoes, undrained
6 cups beef broth
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish, optional
Instructions
Begin by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Break it apart as it cooks so it forms small crumbles. Once the beef is fully browned, drain any excess fat if necessary. Add the diced onion and sauté until it softens and becomes fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for a brief moment until its aroma develops.
Add the sliced carrots, celery, and diced potatoes to the pot. Stir well so the vegetables make contact with the flavorful beef mixture. The combination of vegetables helps build the base of the soup, giving it fullness and depth. Pour the beef broth into the pot, followed by the can of diced tomatoes. Add the basil, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let the soup simmer uncovered for about thirty to forty minutes. As it cooks, the vegetables soften, the flavors blend, and the broth becomes richer. Stir occasionally to keep everything evenly combined. Taste and adjust seasonings near the end of cooking, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.
When the vegetables are tender and the broth has reached a robust flavor, the soup is ready to serve. If you enjoy a slightly thicker texture, lightly mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot. This gives the broth more body without altering the flavor. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a touch of color and brightness.
Serving Suggestions
Hamburger soup is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with simple sides. A slice of soft bread, a warm roll, or a piece of cornbread complements the hearty nature of the soup. Crackers are a classic addition, offering a pleasant crunch that contrasts nicely with the tender vegetables and beef.
A side salad also works well, especially if you want something cool and crisp alongside the warm soup. For a richer option, a small topping of shredded cheese can melt on top, creating a creamy finish. If you like a bit more kick, a spoonful of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes adds gentle heat without overpowering the dish.
Tips and Variations
One of the reasons hamburger soup endures is its versatility. If you have different vegetables on hand, feel free to switch them in. Green beans, corn, peas, or zucchini all blend seamlessly into the soup. Adding barley or pasta transforms it into an even heartier meal, though you may need to add a bit more broth to maintain the right consistency.
You can also adjust the seasoning profile. A touch of Worcestershire sauce deepens the savory flavor, while a bay leaf adds subtle earthiness. Smoked paprika can replace regular paprika for a deeper, smoky taste. If you prefer a slightly sweeter broth, add a small amount of tomato paste or an extra handful of carrots.
For those who like slow-cooked meals, this soup can be adapted for the crockpot. Brown the ground beef with the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker with the vegetables, tomatoes, and broth. Cook on low for six to eight hours or on high for three to four hours. The result is a deeply flavored soup with minimal effort.
A Comforting Classic
Hamburger soup continues to be a cherished favorite because it never disappoints. It is hearty, flavorful, and satisfying without requiring complicated steps or expensive ingredients. It warms the body and brings a sense of comfort that only a simple homemade meal can offer. Whether you make it for your family, for a potluck, or just to enjoy throughout the week, hamburger soup is the kind of recipe that always feels right.