This Hamburger Soup is a warm, hearty dish made with ground beef, vegetables, and a rich tomato-based broth. It’s the kind of comforting meal that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas and makes chilly days feel cozier. Simple ingredients come together to create a satisfying soup the whole family can enjoy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is easy to prepare and doesn’t require complicated techniques. It’s filling enough to be a complete meal, packed with vegetables and savory beef so every spoonful is satisfying. The soup is also very flexible, making it perfect for using what you already have on hand, and it stores well for leftovers.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
900 g ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 can (400 g) diced tomatoes
1.5 liters beef broth
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Directions
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until fully browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the carrots, celery, and potatoes. Stir well to combine with the beef mixture.
Mix in the tomato paste and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing it to coat the ingredients.
Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Add salt, black pepper, paprika, oregano, thyme, and the bay leaf.
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving if desired.
You can add green beans, peas, or corn for extra vegetables. For a heartier soup, stir in a handful of small pasta or rice during the last 10 minutes of cooking. If you prefer a lighter version, reduce the amount of potatoes and add zucchini instead.
Storage/Reheating
Allow the soup to cool completely before storing. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally. This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
FAQs
Can I make hamburger soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Can I freeze hamburger soup?
Yes, it freezes well. Let it cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers.
What type of potatoes work best?
Yukon gold or russet potatoes work well and hold their shape in the soup.
Can I use ground chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground chicken can be used for a lighter flavor while keeping the soup hearty.
How can I thicken the soup?
You can simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes or mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot.
Is this soup spicy?
No, it is mild, but you can add chili flakes if you like heat.
Can I add pasta to this soup?
Yes, small pasta shapes can be added near the end of cooking.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is optional. Unpeeled potatoes add texture and extra nutrients.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the beef first, then cook everything on low for 6 to 8 hours.
What can I serve with hamburger soup?
It pairs well with bread, rolls, or a simple side salad.
Conclusion
Hamburger Soup is a comforting, filling meal that’s perfect for cold days or busy evenings. With simple ingredients, rich flavor, and plenty of flexibility, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again for an easy homemade dinner.
A hearty and comforting soup made with ground beef, vegetables, and a tomato-based broth. Hamburger Soup is easy to prepare, flavorful, and perfect for family meals or meal prep.
Ingredients
900 g ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 can (400 g) diced tomatoes
1.5 liters beef broth
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add chopped onion and cook for 3 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add carrots, celery, and potatoes. Stir to combine.
Mix in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to coat the ingredients.
Pour in diced tomatoes and beef broth. Add salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, thyme, and bay leaf.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes until vegetables are tender.
Remove bay leaf, adjust seasoning, and garnish with parsley if using. Serve hot.
Notes
Add peas, corn, or green beans for extra vegetables.
Stir in small pasta or rice near the end for a heartier version.
For a lighter version, reduce potatoes and add zucchini.
Simmer uncovered or mash potatoes to thicken if needed.
