Hamburger Soup

 Hamburger Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly days. This one-pot meal combines ground beef with vegetables, beans, and broth to create a filling and flavorful soup. It’s simple to make and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or seasonings. Here’s a recipe for you:

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)

1 medium onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium carrots, peeled and diced

2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced

1 zucchini, diced (optional)

1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained

1 (15 oz) can kidney beans or any beans you prefer, drained and rinsed

4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)

1 cup frozen peas

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)

1/4 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)

1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

Optional: 1-2 cups of water if you prefer a thinner soup

Instructions:

Cook the Ground Beef:

1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat.

Sauté the Vegetables:

2. Cook the Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened.

3. Add Carrots, Potatoes, and Zucchini: Add the diced carrots, potatoes, and zucchini (if using). Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add the Liquids and Seasonings:

4. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and beef broth. Stir to combine.

5. Season the Soup: Add the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to mix everything evenly. Bring the soup to a boil.

Simmer the Soup:

6. Simmer Until Tender: Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender. If you prefer a thinner soup, you can add up to 2 cups of water during the simmering process.

Add Beans and Peas:

7. Add the Beans and Peas: Stir in the drained beans and frozen peas, and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the peas are heated through.

Serve:

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, and enjoy a bowl of hearty, comforting hamburger soup!

Tips:

Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like green beans, corn, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.

Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a kick of heat.

Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can be added at the end of cooking for extra flavor.

Meal Prep: This soup keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days and can also be frozen for later use.

This Hamburger Soup is the perfect meal to warm you up, filled with savory meat, hearty vegetables, and a delicious broth!