Hamburger Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that brings together lean ground beef, tender vegetables, and savory broth for a meal that satisfies the whole family. The combination of beef, carrots, celery, and corn makes for a nutritious and flavorful soup, with the tangy tomatoes and seasonings enhancing every bite. It’s perfect for cold days when you need something warm, filling, and quick to prepare.

 

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 5 cups water
• 1 (16-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (10-ounce) package frozen corn kernels
• 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 6 beef bouillon cubes
• 3 tablespoons ketchup
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt

Directions:

1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, frozen corn kernels, and water.
4. Add the beef bouillon cubes, ketchup, dried basil, and salt. Stir everything to combine.
5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
6. Serve the soup hot with crusty bread or crackers for a hearty meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes

Kcal: 220 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

 

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

• Calories: 220 kcal
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 900mg
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 7g
• Protein: 16g
• Vitamin A: 45% DV
• Vitamin C: 15% DV
• Calcium: 6% DV
• Iron: 12% DV

Cooking Tips:

1. Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef (90% lean) to reduce the fat content in the soup. Alternatively, ground turkey or chicken can be used as healthier alternatives.
2. Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables based on what you have in your fridge. Potatoes, green beans, peas, or bell peppers make great additions to this versatile soup.
3. Boost Flavor: For extra depth, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
4. Simmer Time: The longer you let the soup simmer, the richer the flavors become. While 30 minutes is sufficient, simmering for up to 45 minutes will allow the ingredients to meld together beautifully.
5. Thickening the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water during the final 10 minutes of cooking, or add a handful of uncooked pasta to the soup and let it cook through.
6. Salt Control: If you’re using store-bought beef bouillon cubes, keep an eye on the salt content. Bouillon cubes can be quite salty, so reduce or omit the added salt if necessary.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigerating: Once the soup has cooled to room temperature, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors often improve as the soup sits, making it even more delicious the next day.
2. Freezing: Hamburger Soup freezes exceptionally well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stove over low heat.
3. Reheating: To reheat, place the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If reheating from frozen, you may need to add a bit of water or broth to maintain the soup’s consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen corn? Yes, you can substitute fresh corn for frozen corn in equal amounts. Fresh corn will add a slightly sweeter flavor and a bit of crunch to the soup.
2. Can I make this in a slow cooker? Absolutely! After browning the ground beef and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method enhances the depth of flavor even further.
3. Is Hamburger Soup gluten-free? As written, the recipe is naturally gluten-free, provided the beef bouillon cubes do not contain gluten. Check the labels to be sure, or substitute with gluten-free bouillon or broth.
4. What can I serve with Hamburger Soup? Hamburger Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, garlic bread, or even a side salad. For a more indulgent meal, serve it with grilled cheese sandwiches.
5. How do I make this soup spicier? If you like a bit of heat, you can add crushed red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or diced jalapeños while the soup simmers.
6. Can I add pasta or rice to the soup? Yes! Adding cooked pasta, such as macaroni or small shells, or cooked rice is a great way to bulk up the soup. Just be sure to add the pasta or rice during the last 10 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking.