Warm and Cozy Hamburger Soup for Comfort on Chilly Evenings

June 3, 2025

By:

Julia marin

There’s something truly special about a warm bowl of hamburger soup that wraps around you like a cozy blanket, isn’t there? I remember my grandmother making this soup on chilly evenings, filling the house with a delightful aroma that promised comfort and care. It’s such an easy recipe, perfect for anyone looking to whip up a hearty meal without spending all day in the kitchen. Just gather some simple ingredients, and you’ll have a delicious, nourishing soup ready in no time. The best part? You can customize it to fit your family’s tastes or dietary needs! So, let’s dive into this recipe that not only fills your belly but also warms your heart. Trust me, once you take that first spoonful, you’ll feel all the love and nostalgia come rushing back. Grab your pot, and let’s get cooking!

hamburger soup - detail 1

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to create this comforting hamburger soup. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, so let’s break it down clearly:

1 pound ground beef – This is the star of the dish! You can use lean ground beef if you prefer less fat, or even ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
1 onion, chopped – Chop your onion into small pieces to release its sweet flavor. This adds depth to the soup.
2 carrots, diced – Dicing your carrots will help them cook evenly and add a lovely sweetness to the mix.
2 celery stalks, diced – Dice the celery to bring a nice crunch and subtle flavor to your soup.
3 potatoes, cubed – Peel and cube the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. They’ll add heartiness and texture to the soup.
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz) – These bring a lovely acidity and juiciness to the dish. No need to drain, just pour them in!
4 cups beef broth – This is your base. You can use homemade or store-bought broth. Low-sodium options are great if you’re watching your salt intake.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – A simple way to add that wonderful garlic flavor without the fuss of fresh garlic.
1 teaspoon dried oregano – This herb lends a warm, earthy taste. It’s a must-have for comforting meals like this!
Salt and pepper to taste – Seasoning is key! Start with a little and taste as you go.
1 cup green beans, chopped – Fresh or frozen green beans work well here. They add a splash of color and a nice crunch!

Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to a delicious bowl of hamburger soup that’s sure to please everyone at the table!

How to Prepare Hamburger Soup

Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s get to the heart of the matter: making this delicious hamburger soup! I promise, it’s as easy as pie (or should I say, soup?). Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a comforting bowl of goodness in no time!

Brown the Beef: Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s nice and browned, about 5–7 minutes. Make sure to drain any excess fat if there’s a lot, but a little adds flavor!
Add the Vegetables: Toss in the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté them together until the vegetables soften, about 5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen starts smelling amazing!
Mix in the Potatoes and Tomatoes: Now, stir in the cubed potatoes and the can of diced tomatoes (juice and all!). This is where the soup starts getting hearty.
Pour in the Broth: Next, add the 4 cups of beef broth. This will create a lovely base for your soup. If you’re using low-sodium broth, you can adjust your salt later.
Season It Up: Sprinkle in the garlic powder, dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Remember, you can always add more salt later, so start with a pinch and taste as you go!
Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This gives all the flavors a chance to meld beautifully.
Add the Green Beans: In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the chopped green beans. They’ll add a nice crunch and vibrant color to your soup.
Serve and Enjoy: Once everything is cooked through and the flavors are just right, ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it hot! It’s perfect with some crusty bread or a sprinkle of cheese on top if you like.

And there you have it—homemade hamburger soup that’s sure to warm your heart and fill your belly. It’s simple, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This hamburger soup is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl that you’ll want to return to time and time again. Here are some reasons why this recipe will become a favorite in your kitchen:

Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have a hearty soup ready in about 45 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
Comforting and Satisfying: Each spoonful is packed with flavor and warmth, making it the ultimate comfort food for chilly days.
Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or proteins. It’s a flexible recipe that can adapt to your tastes or dietary needs!
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, this soup is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a great choice for a balanced meal.
One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze—a definite win in my book!
Leftover Friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it a perfect make-ahead option for lunches or quick dinners.
Kid-Approved: The flavors are mild and familiar, so even picky eaters will find something to love in this soup!

Trust me, once you make this hamburger soup, you’ll see why it’s such a cherished recipe. It’s all about simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special.

Tips for Success

Making the perfect hamburger soup is all about those little details that can take your dish from good to absolutely fantastic! Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out just right:

Don’t Rush the Browning: When browning the ground beef, take your time. Let it get a nice, rich color before adding your veggies. This enhances the flavor and makes a big difference.
Chop Evenly: Make sure your vegetables are chopped or diced into similar sizes. This helps them cook evenly and ensures every spoonful has a bit of everything.
Experiment with Herbs: While I love oregano, you can also try adding thyme, basil, or even a bay leaf for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs can also brighten up the dish if you have them on hand!
Adjust the Broth: If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth slightly. For a heartier meal, you can add more potatoes or beans. Just remember to taste as you go!
Let It Sit: If you have the time, letting your soup sit for a bit after cooking allows the flavors to deepen. It’s like letting a good wine breathe—trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Make It Your Own: Feel free to add in other veggies like corn, peas, or bell peppers. You can also toss in some cooked pasta or rice for extra heartiness!
Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, they can be stored in the fridge for a few days and taste even better the next day. Just reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious, comforting hamburger soup that everyone will love. Happy cooking!

Variations

The beauty of hamburger soup lies in its versatility! You can easily switch things up to keep it exciting or to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some delicious variations to consider:

Vegetable Medley: Feel free to add or substitute with your favorite vegetables. Frozen corn, peas, or diced bell peppers can bring new flavors and textures to the soup. Just toss them in along with the other veggies!
Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, consider adding a dash of crushed red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. For a smoky flavor, try adding a bit of smoked paprika or even some diced jalapeños.
Different Proteins: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a lighter or vegetarian option. You could also use diced ham or cooked sausage for a different twist!
Herb Variations: While oregano is fantastic, you can experiment with other herbs too. Fresh basil or parsley added at the end can brighten the dish, while thyme adds a lovely earthiness.
Beans for Protein: For an extra boost of protein and fiber, consider adding a can of drained and rinsed beans, like kidney beans or black beans. They’ll make the soup even heartier!
Asian-Inspired Twist: For a fun change, you could add some chopped bok choy, sesame oil, and a splash of soy sauce. Serve it with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an exciting fusion option!

Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create your perfect hamburger soup. The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait for you to find your favorite combination. Enjoy experimenting!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your homemade hamburger soup properly will keep it fresh and delicious for days to come. Here’s how to do it safely and conveniently:

Cooling Down: After you’ve enjoyed your soup, let any leftovers cool down to room temperature before storing them. This helps prevent condensation in the container, which can make the soup watery.
Refrigerating: Transfer the cooled soup into an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Just label it with the date so you know when it was made!
Freezing: If you want to keep your soup longer, it freezes beautifully! Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space for expansion as it freezes. It should stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen hamburger soup, simply transfer it to the refrigerator to thaw overnight. For quicker thawing, you can put it in a bowl of cold water—just be sure to change the water every 30 minutes until it’s thawed.
Reheating: To reheat, pour the soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5–10 minutes. If the soup has thickened too much while sitting, feel free to add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, heating for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Remember, always check that the soup is heated all the way through before serving. With these simple steps, you’ll have delicious leftovers ready to enjoy anytime, and you’ll save time in the kitchen, too!

Nutritional Information Section

When it comes to enjoying your homemade hamburger soup, it’s good to be aware of what’s in it. However, please keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, while I can provide a general idea of the nutrition, it’s not an exact science. Here’s what you can typically expect for one serving of hamburger soup (about 1 cup):

Calories: 250
Fat: 10g
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 500mg
Sugar: 4g

These values can help you gauge how this hearty soup fits into your dietary needs. Enjoy every comforting spoonful knowing it’s not just delicious but also packed with good nutrition!

FAQ Section

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great, leaner option that works perfectly in this hamburger soup. Just follow the same steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal that’s a bit lighter.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Just brown the beef first, then combine all the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it cook on low for about 6–8 hours. It’s an easy way to let the flavors meld while you go about your day!

How can I thicken my hamburger soup?
If you find your soup is a bit too thin for your liking, you can thicken it by adding a cornstarch slurry (mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water) and stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking. Alternatively, you can mash some of the potatoes to create a creamier texture.

How long does hamburger soup last in the fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, your hamburger soup will last about 3–4 days in the refrigerator. It’s a great make-ahead meal for busy weeks!

Can I freeze hamburger soup?
Yes, indeed! This soup freezes beautifully. Just make sure to cool it first, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.