This recipe delivers a delicious and satisfying easy vegetable soup with hamburger, perfect for a weeknight meal. It's packed with vegetables, lean protein, and robust flavor, all while remaining surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe will become a go-to for comforting, healthy meals.
What Vegetables are Best for Hamburger Soup?
The beauty of this soup lies in its versatility. You can easily adapt it to your preferences and what's in season. However, some vegetables work particularly well in this type of soup due to their ability to hold their shape and contribute hearty texture. Excellent choices include:
- Carrots: Their sweetness balances the savory elements of the soup.
- Celery: Adds a subtle earthiness and pleasant crunch.
- Potatoes: Provide a creamy texture and satisfying thickness to the broth.
- Onions: Essential for building a flavorful base.
- Green beans: Offer a vibrant green color and a nice snap.
- Corn: Adds sweetness and a touch of summery freshness (fresh or frozen).
- Peas: Contribute a vibrant green color and a slightly sweet flavor.
How to Make Easy Vegetable Soup with Hamburger: A Step-by-Step Guide
This recipe provides a basic framework; feel free to adjust quantities based on your preferences and the number of servings you need.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or extra lean recommended)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup frozen corn or peas
Instructions:
- Brown the beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add remaining ingredients: Stir in the potatoes, green beans, diced tomatoes (undrained), beef broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. If using, add corn or peas now.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy!
Can I use other types of meat in this soup?
Absolutely! While ground beef is classic, you can easily substitute other ground meats, such as ground turkey or chicken, for a leaner option. You could even experiment with Italian sausage for a richer, spicier flavor profile. Remember to adjust seasoning to complement your chosen meat.
What are some variations of this recipe?
The possibilities are endless! Here are some ideas to personalize your vegetable soup with hamburger:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Add beans: Kidney beans, black beans, or pinto beans would add protein and fiber.
- Boost the veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving.
- Add noodles: Small pasta shapes, like ditalini or elbow macaroni, would be a delicious addition.
How can I make this soup ahead of time?
This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it according to the instructions above, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. Freezing is also possible; allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
Is this soup healthy?
Yes, this soup is a relatively healthy option, especially if you use lean ground beef and plenty of vegetables. It's a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins. Adjusting the ingredients to include even more vegetables and minimizing the amount of salt will further enhance its nutritional value. It's a far healthier alternative to many processed convenience foods.
Enjoy your delicious and easy vegetable soup with hamburger! Remember to adjust the recipe to fit your tastes and dietary needs. Happy cooking!
