Easy Hamburger Soup Recipe
Easy hamburger soup recipe – This recipe offers a comforting and flavorful twist on classic hamburger soup, perfect for a chilly evening or a hearty weeknight meal. Inspired by the simple, satisfying comfort food of a hamburger, this soup elevates the familiar into a deeply satisfying and easily customizable bowl of goodness. While the precise origins of hamburger soup are difficult to pinpoint, its evolution likely mirrors the broader history of ground beef dishes, adapting and evolving with regional preferences and readily available ingredients.
It’s a dish that embraces adaptability and celebrates the versatility of simple ingredients.
An easy hamburger soup recipe is a fantastic weeknight meal, offering hearty comfort. For a lighter, yet equally satisfying alternative, consider a quick mushroom soup recipe ; it’s a delicious change of pace. Returning to the hamburger soup, remember to adjust seasonings to your preference for a truly personalized dish.
Ingredient List & Preparation
This section details the ingredients and their preparation. Accurate measurements ensure consistent results, and preparing ingredients beforehand streamlines the cooking process.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef (80/20 blend) | 1 lb | Browned in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off excess grease. |
| Onion | 1 medium, chopped | Finely chopped for even cooking and distribution of flavor. |
| Carrots | 2 medium, chopped | Chopped into ½-inch pieces for consistent cooking. |
| Celery | 2 stalks, chopped | Chopped into ½-inch pieces, similar to the carrots. |
| Beef broth | 6 cups | Use low-sodium broth for better flavor control. |
| Diced tomatoes (canned) | 1 (14.5 oz) can, undrained | Adds acidity and richness. |
| Potatoes | 2 medium, diced | Diced into 1-inch cubes for even cooking. |
| Tomato paste | 2 tablespoons | Adds depth of tomato flavor. |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tablespoon | Adds savory umami notes. |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon | Adds a warm, earthy flavor. |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Season to your preference. |
| Egg noodles (optional) | 8 oz | Cooked separately according to package directions. |
Cooking Instructions
Source: tasteofhome.com
The following steps provide a clear and concise guide to preparing the soup. Following the steps in order ensures the best results.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute more.
- Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), potatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using egg noodles, cook them separately according to package directions and add them to the soup during the last 5 minutes of simmering.
Variations & Adaptations
This recipe is highly adaptable to different tastes and dietary needs. These variations offer exciting alternatives to the base recipe.
- Spicy Hamburger Soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce during the simmering process.
- Vegetarian Hamburger Soup: Substitute the ground beef with 1 cup of cooked lentils or crumbled vegetarian crumbles. Adjust seasonings as needed.
- Cheesy Hamburger Soup: Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of cooking. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can also be added as a garnish.
For low-sodium diets, use low-sodium broth and reduce the amount of added salt. Gluten-free options are easily achieved by omitting the egg noodles or substituting gluten-free pasta.
Serving Suggestions & Garnish, Easy hamburger soup recipe
Presentation and garnishes elevate the dining experience. These suggestions enhance both the visual appeal and flavor profile of the soup.
- Serve hot in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of green and fresh herbal flavor.
- A dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt adds a creamy texture and tangy contrast.
- A sprinkle of shredded cheese adds a salty, savory element and a pleasing visual texture.
- Croutons or oyster crackers provide a crunchy contrast to the soup’s soft texture.
Recipe Troubleshooting
Addressing potential cooking issues ensures a consistently successful outcome. These tips help resolve common problems.
If the soup is too thick, add more beef broth, a little at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. If the soup is too thin, simmer it uncovered for a longer period to allow excess liquid to evaporate.
Visual Representation
Source: yellowblissroad.com
The finished hamburger soup is a rich, deep brown color, with visible chunks of beef, carrots, celery, and potatoes. The texture is hearty and slightly chunky, with a smooth broth. The cooked ground beef loses its raw red color, becoming a darker, richer brown. The vegetables soften and become tender, with the carrots and potatoes taking on a slightly translucent quality.
Ideally, the soup is served in a warm bowl, garnished attractively, showcasing the colorful ingredients and textures.
FAQ Corner
Can I use different types of ground beef?
Yes, lean ground beef, ground chuck, or even ground turkey can be substituted. Adjust cooking time as needed based on the fat content.
How can I thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
A cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with cold water) or a roux (butter and flour cooked together) can be added to thicken the soup. Stir in and simmer until desired consistency is reached.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
What are some gluten-free alternatives?
Ensure your broth and any added seasonings are gluten-free. Soy sauce can be replaced with tamari or coconut aminos.
