Creating the perfect hamburger veggie soup balances rich meaty flavors with fresh vegetable nutrition. This recipe delivers a satisfying meal that's both comforting and wholesome, perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. The combination of ground beef and vegetables creates a protein-packed dish that freezes beautifully for future meals.
Why This Hamburger Vegetable Soup Recipe Works
Unlike many quick soup recipes that compromise on flavor, this hamburger and vegetable soup builds layers of taste through proper technique. The key is browning the ground beef thoroughly before adding other ingredients - this Maillard reaction creates complex flavor compounds that simmering alone can't achieve. The acid from diced tomatoes balances the richness of the meat while helping to tenderize the vegetables.
Professional chefs know that soup depth comes from building flavors in stages, not just dumping everything in a pot. This hamburger veggie soup recipe follows that principle while remaining accessible for home cooks. The ratio of meat to vegetables provides substantial protein without overwhelming the dish with fat.
Complete Ingredient List for Hamburger Soup with Vegetables
Use these precise measurements for consistent results every time you make this easy hamburger vegetable soup recipe:
| Ingredient | Amount | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef (80% lean) | 1 pound | 90% lean works but yields less flavor |
| Yellow onion | 1 medium | Diced (about 1 cup) |
| Carrots | 2 medium | Peeled and diced |
| Celery stalks | 2 | Diced |
| Garlic cloves | 3 | Minced |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 (14.5 oz) can | With juices |
| Beef broth | 6 cups | Low-sodium preferred |
| Green beans | 1 cup | Fresh or frozen |
| Potatoes | 2 medium | Diced (Yukon Gold recommended) |
| Dried thyme | 1 teaspoon | |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Essential Equipment for Making Hamburger Soup
You don't need specialized equipment for this classic hamburger vegetable soup recipe. A heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven (5-6 quart capacity) works best for even heating. You'll also need basic kitchen tools including a wooden spoon, chef's knife, cutting board, and measuring cups/spoons. For best results, use a splatter screen when browning the meat to contain grease while allowing steam to escape.
Step-by-Step Hamburger Veggie Soup Instructions
Follow these detailed steps for the best hamburger soup with vegetables:
- Brown the meat: Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking into small pieces, until well-browned (about 8 minutes). Do not drain fat - it enhances flavor.
- Sauté vegetables: Add onions, carrots, and celery to the pot with the meat. Cook until vegetables begin to soften (5-7 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
- Build the soup: Add diced tomatoes with juices, beef broth, potatoes, green beans, thyme, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Final seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. For richer flavor, stir in 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce.
Professional Tips for Perfect Hamburger Vegetable Soup
Elevate your hamburger veggie soup recipe with these chef-tested techniques:
- Don't rush the browning: Properly browned meat (not just grayed) creates fond (browned bits) that forms the flavor foundation. This makes a significant difference in the final taste of your hamburger soup with vegetables.
- Layer seasonings: Add dried herbs early in cooking to allow flavors to meld, but add fresh herbs like parsley at the end for brightness.
- Acid balance: If the soup tastes flat, add a splash of red wine vinegar or lemon juice to brighten flavors - this technique works especially well with this easy hamburger vegetable soup recipe.
- Fat management: After cooking, chill the soup briefly and skim excess fat from the surface for a cleaner-tasting broth without sacrificing flavor.
Variations for Dietary Preferences
This versatile hamburger and vegetable soup adapts well to different dietary needs:
- Gluten-free: This hamburger veggie soup recipe is naturally gluten-free. Verify broth ingredients if concerned about hidden gluten.
- Lower fat: Use 93% lean ground beef and skim excess fat after browning for a lighter version of this healthy hamburger soup.
- Extra vegetables: Add zucchini, spinach, or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking for additional nutrition in your hamburger vegetable soup.
- Bean addition: Stir in 1 cup of cooked kidney beans or lentils for added fiber and protein in your hamburger soup recipe.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Proper storage ensures your hamburger veggie soup maintains quality:
- Refrigeration: Cool completely within 2 hours of cooking. Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Portion into freezer-safe containers with ½ inch headspace. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add splashes of broth or water if soup has thickened during storage. Avoid boiling vigorously which can make meat tough.
Serving Suggestions for Hamburger Soup
Complete your meal with these pairing ideas for your hamburger vegetable soup:
- Crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping
- Simple green salad with vinaigrette dressing
- Grated Parmesan cheese for topping
- Drop biscuits or cornbread on the side
This hearty hamburger veggie soup recipe serves 6-8 people and makes excellent leftovers as flavors continue to develop overnight. The soup thickens slightly when chilled, so you may need to add additional broth when reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in hamburger veggie soup?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a substitute in this hamburger vegetable soup recipe. Use 93% lean for best flavor and moisture retention. You may want to add ½ teaspoon smoked paprika to compensate for turkey's milder flavor compared to beef.
How do I prevent vegetables from becoming mushy in hamburger soup?
Add delicate vegetables like zucchini or spinach during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking. For this hamburger soup with vegetables recipe, add potatoes and carrots early (they need longer cooking), but add green beans and peas later to maintain texture.
What's the best way to thicken hamburger veggie soup?
If your soup is too thin, create a slurry with 2 tablespoons cornstarch and ¼ cup cold broth, then stir into simmering soup. Alternatively, mash some potatoes against the pot side to naturally thicken this easy hamburger vegetable soup recipe.
Can I make this hamburger soup recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Brown the meat and sauté vegetables first, then transfer to slow cooker with remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method works well for the hamburger and vegetable soup recipe and develops deep flavors.
How can I make hamburger veggie soup more flavorful?
For richer flavor in your hamburger soup recipe, try these techniques: brown meat well without stirring too often, add 1-2 anchovy fillets while sautéing vegetables (they'll dissolve), include a Parmesan rind while simmering, or finish with a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving.
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