Old Fashioned Hamburger Soup is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. It’s packed with hearty ground beef, tender vegetables like carrots and potatoes, and a rich tomato broth that’s both filling and comforting. This soup is simple, straightforward, and full of familiar flavors that remind me of home.
I love making this soup because it comes together easily and tastes like it’s been simmering all day, even if it hasn’t. One tip I’ve picked up is to let it sit for a bit after cooking; the flavors really meld together, making every spoonful even better. Plus, browning the hamburger well adds such a nice depth to the broth.
Whenever I serve Old Fashioned Hamburger Soup, I like pairing it with some crusty bread or buttery crackers on the side. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that satisfies hungry appetites without needing fancy ingredients. This soup always brings back good memories of family dinners and simple, honest food made with love.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the heart of the soup, giving it rich flavor and texture. I prefer lean or 80/20 ground beef. For a lighter option, try ground turkey or chicken instead.
Potatoes and Carrots: They add nice bulk and sweetness. You can swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a twist. Carrots can be replaced with parsnips or turnips if you want something a bit different.
Beef Broth: This creates the flavorful base. If you don’t have beef broth, chicken broth or vegetable broth works fine. Homemade broth makes the soup extra tasty.
Frozen Peas and Corn: These bring color and slight sweetness to the soup. Fresh or canned versions are good substitutes if you don’t have frozen.
Diced Tomatoes: These add tang and depth. You can use fresh diced tomatoes in season or canned crushed tomatoes if you want a smoother texture.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor When Browning Ground Beef?
Browning the ground beef well sets the flavor tone for the whole soup. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Heat your pot and oil on medium-high before adding the meat.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed. This lets the beef brown instead of steam.
- Break the meat into small pieces with a spoon as it cooks.
- Cook until brown bits form on the bottom – these add great flavor.
- Drain excess fat to keep the soup from being greasy.
Doing this step carefully means your soup will taste richer and more satisfying.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven – perfect for browning beef and simmering all the soup ingredients evenly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – great for stirring without scratching your pot.
- Chef’s knife – sharp and reliable for chopping onions, carrots, celery, and potatoes quickly.
- Cutting board – gives you a sturdy surface to prep your vegetables safely.
- Measuring cups and spoons – help keep your seasoning and broth quantities just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version that still keeps this soup hearty.
- Add a can of kidney or black beans to boost protein and add extra texture.
- Stir in fresh or frozen green beans or zucchini for extra veggies and color.
- Season with a pinch of smoked paprika or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for deeper, richer flavor.
Old Fashioned Hamburger Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- 3 medium carrots, diced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 6 cups beef broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil
- Optional: fresh parsley or thyme for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 35-40 minutes to cook. In just under an hour, you’ll have a warm, comforting meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Heat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. When done, drain any excess fat.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion, celery, and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables soften. Then stir in the diced carrots and potatoes and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add Broth and Seasonings:
Pour in the beef broth and the canned diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir in the dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Bring everything to a boil.
4. Simmer the Soup:
Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
5. Finish with Peas and Corn:
Add the frozen peas and corn to the soup. Continue simmering for another 5 minutes, until the peas and corn are heated through.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Give the soup a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if you like. It’s delicious with crusty bread or crackers on the side!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Soup?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps the beef brown evenly and ensures it cooks safely.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The flavors actually improve after sitting for a few hours or overnight. Store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, then reheat gently on the stove before serving.
How Should I Store Leftover Hamburger Soup?
Let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to airtight containers. It keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead?
Definitely! Swap in veggies like green beans, zucchini, or bell peppers based on what you have. Just add them towards the end of cooking so they stay tender-crisp.
