Vegetable Hamburger Soup: A Hearty and Nutritious Comfort Dish
This Vegetable Hamburger Soup is the perfect marriage of a hearty, comforting meal and a nutritious bowl of goodness. Loaded with seasoned ground beef, an array of colorful vegetables, and a savory broth, this soup is both filling and flavorful. It’s easy to make, family-friendly, and can be prepared ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This soup is packed with protein and fiber, making it not only tasty but also incredibly satisfying. The combination of ground beef, potatoes, carrots, green beans, and corn creates a well-rounded meal in a bowl. Plus, it’s versatile—you can easily swap in different vegetables or adjust the seasoning to your taste.
Keywords: Vegetable Hamburger Soup, ground beef soup, hearty soup recipe, easy hamburger soup, comfort food, beef vegetable soup
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (lean or extra lean)
1 tbsp olive oil (optional if using lean beef)
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth (low sodium)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
3 carrots, peeled and sliced
1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 bay leaf
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Brown the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat (if using). Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat.
Cook the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot with the ground beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the onions become soft and translucent.
Add the Broth and Vegetables
Pour in the beef broth and add the diced tomatoes, potatoes, carrots, green beans, and corn. Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
Simmer the Soup
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and let it cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Taste and Adjust Seasoning
After the soup has simmered, taste it and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can add a little more tomato paste or a dash of Worcestershire sauce.
Serve
Remove the bay leaf and ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Customization Ideas
Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
Make It Low-Carb: Swap out the potatoes for cauliflower or skip them altogether for a lower-carb version.
Add Grains: Stir in some cooked quinoa, barley, or pasta to bulk up the soup and make it even more filling.
Why It Works
This Vegetable Hamburger Soup is a one-pot wonder that balances the flavors of ground beef with the freshness of vegetables. The rich broth, enhanced with thyme, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika, gives the soup depth, while the vegetables make it wholesome and hearty.
The use of ground beef ensures that this soup is packed with protein, which, combined with fiber from the vegetables, makes it a satisfying meal that keeps you full longer. It’s a budget-friendly recipe that can be customized based on what you have in your pantry or fridge.
Nutritional Benefits
Ground Beef: Provides a good source of protein, iron, and essential vitamins like B12.
Vegetables: The carrots, potatoes, green beans, and corn are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which are essential for overall health.
Tomatoes: Rich in antioxidants, especially lycopene, which has been linked to various health benefits.
Leftovers and Freezing Tips
This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it great for meal prep. It also freezes beautifully. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or ziplock bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Perfect Pairings
Garlic Bread: The savory, garlicky goodness of toasted bread pairs perfectly with the hearty soup.
Grilled Cheese: A gooey, melty grilled cheese sandwich makes a great side for dipping into the soup.
Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the soup.
Conclusion
This Vegetable Hamburger Soup is the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and customizable to your preferences. Whether you’re serving it as a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this soup is sure to be a hit. Its hearty ingredients and delicious broth make it a go-to recipe for chilly days or when you’re craving a satisfying, home-cooked meal.