Beef Hamburger Soup Recipe: A Hearty and Flavorful Meal
Are you looking for a comforting and delicious soup recipe that's both easy to make and packed with flavor? Look no further than this beef hamburger soup recipe! This hearty soup is perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend lunch. It's also incredibly versatile – feel free to adjust the ingredients to your liking and dietary needs.
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe makes a generous serving of about 6-8 bowls.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables and browning the beef.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 carrots, chopped: Provides a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Adds a subtle savory note.
- 1 lb ground beef: The star of the show! Use a leaner ground beef for a healthier option.
- 8 cups beef broth: Provides the base for the flavorful soup. You can use low-sodium broth to control the salt content.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds acidity and richness.
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce: Enhances the tomato flavor and thickens the soup.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Adds an earthy and aromatic touch.
- 1 tsp dried basil: Provides a slightly sweet and peppery flavor.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Adjust to your taste.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Enhances the savory notes.
- 1 bay leaf: Adds a subtle complexity to the flavor.
- 1 cup elbow macaroni or other small pasta: Adds heartiness and texture.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional): For garnish.
Instructions for a Delicious Beef Hamburger Soup:
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
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Brown the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Simmer the soup: Stir in the beef broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for at least 20 minutes, or up to an hour, for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld.
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Add the pasta: Add the elbow macaroni to the soup and cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes, depending on the pasta type.
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Serve and enjoy: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Tips and Variations for Your Beef Hamburger Soup:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, green beans, or corn.
- Use different pasta: Try other small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or heavy cream before serving.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
This beef hamburger soup recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make it perfect for busy weeknights, while its rich and satisfying flavor will keep you coming back for more. Enjoy!