Hamburger Soup

 Hamburger Soup is a hearty, comforting meal that combines ground beef with vegetables in a savory broth. It's easy to make, customizable with your favorite veggies, and perfect for a cozy dinner. Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for hamburger soup:

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef (you can also use turkey or chicken for a leaner option)

1 medium onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium carrots, peeled and diced

2 celery stalks, chopped

1 medium potato, peeled and diced (optional)

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

4 cups beef or vegetable broth

1 cup frozen peas (or green beans, corn, or your preferred vegetable)

1 tsp dried basil

1 tsp dried oregano

1/2 tsp salt (or more to taste)

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp paprika (optional for extra flavor)

1/2 cup elbow macaroni or any small pasta (optional)

1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Ground Beef:

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat if needed.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot with the ground beef. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables soften.

3. Add the Liquids and Seasonings:

Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef or vegetable broth, and season with basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir to combine.

4. Simmer the Soup:

Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

5. Add the Pasta and Peas:

If you’re adding pasta, stir it into the soup and let it cook for 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. If you’re adding frozen peas or another vegetable, add them in the last 5 minutes of cooking.

6. Taste and Adjust:

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or dried herbs for extra flavor.

7. Serve:

Once the vegetables and pasta are cooked through, remove the soup from the heat and serve hot. You can garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Tips:

Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for more nutrition and flavor.

Beef Alternatives: If you prefer a leaner version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef.

Make Ahead: This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and even tastes better the next day as the flavors develop. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. If freezing, add the pasta after reheating to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Hamburger Soup is a simple, satisfying meal perfect for 

any time of year. It’s full of veggies and protein, making it both nourishing and filling!