Hamburger soup with minced meat is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. This versatile soup is packed with ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a savory broth that fills you up and keeps you satisfied for hours. Whether you’re in need of a nourishing meal after a long day or a delicious lunch that can be prepared in no time, this hamburger soup is your go-to recipe. Serve it with freshly baked baguette to soak up the flavorful broth and make it a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 sticks of celery, diced
- 500 g ground beef (1.1 lbs)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon paprika powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 800 g chopped tomatoes (2 cans or about 28 oz)
- 800 ml beef or vegetable stock (3 ⅓ cups)
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 500 g mixed frozen vegetables (1 lb)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Vegetables
Start by peeling and dicing the onion and potatoes, and washing and dicing the celery. It’s best to cut everything into small, bite-sized pieces for a uniform texture in the soup. These fresh ingredients provide a sturdy base for the soup, adding both flavor and nutrition.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, and sauté for a few minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. This step releases the flavors of the vegetables, providing a delicious aroma that sets the stage for the soup.
3. Cook the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the saucepan, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Fry until the meat is well browned, which helps develop a rich, savory taste. Drain any excess fat if necessary to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
4. Season the Soup
Season the mixture with salt, pepper, paprika powder, garlic powder, and dried oregano. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices, ensuring each spoonful of soup is packed with flavor. These seasonings bring warmth and depth to the soup, enhancing the beefy goodness.
5. Add Tomatoes and Potatoes
Pour in the chopped tomatoes and add the diced potatoes. Stir everything together so that the potatoes and tomatoes are well mixed with the meat and vegetables. The potatoes add heartiness to the soup, making it more filling and satisfying.
6. Pour in the Stock and Simmer
Add the beef or vegetable stock to the pot and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together while the potatoes begin to soften.
7. Add the Frozen Vegetables
Stir in the mixed frozen vegetables and continue to simmer for another 10 to 15 minutes over medium heat, or until the vegetables are tender. Using frozen vegetables is not only convenient but also ensures that the soup is packed with nutrients and vibrant colors. You can use a mix of green beans and carrots, or customize with peas, corn, or bell peppers based on your preference.
8. Serve with Baguette
Serve the soup hot with slices of freshly baked baguette on the side. The bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Servings: 6
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 850mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 7g
- Protein: 20g
Tips for the Best Hamburger Soup
- Customize Your Vegetables: This recipe is versatile; feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or even a handful of spinach towards the end of cooking for added nutrients.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Use Fresh or Canned Tomatoes: While this recipe calls for chopped canned tomatoes, you can use fresh tomatoes if available. Simply dice about 4 large tomatoes and add them to the pot.
- Make It Ahead: Hamburger soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish Options: Top the soup with grated cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or freshly chopped parsley for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Accompaniments: Along with baguette, consider serving this soup with a side salad for a balanced meal or add a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting, hearty lunch or dinner.
Hamburger soup is a wonderfully satisfying dish that’s not only quick and easy to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste and available ingredients. Its combination of hearty beef, tender potatoes, and a mix of vegetables makes it a nutritious meal that warms you up from the inside out. Enjoy the comforting taste of this delicious soup, whether on a chilly evening or as a wholesome lunch to keep you going throughout the day!