Sometimes all you need is a bowl of simple, hearty goodness — and that’s exactly what this Hamburger Soup gives you.
I still remember the first time I made it — I had leftover ground beef and a bunch of random veggies sitting in the fridge.
I tossed everything into a pot, crossed my fingers, and ended up with the most comforting soup I’d ever tasted. Since then, it’s been my go-to “lazy but warm and cozy” dinner.
If you love comfort food that’s easy, filling, and ridiculously tasty, you’re in the right place.
What Is Hamburger Soup?
Think of Hamburger Soup as the coziest mix of a beefy stew and a veggie-packed broth. It’s made with ground beef, potatoes, carrots, celery, tomatoes, and a flavorful broth — all simmered together until everything melts into one rich, comforting bite.
It’s not fancy. It’s not fussy. But it is the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with that homey, welcoming smell — the kind that makes everyone wander in asking, “What’s cooking?”
Why You’ll Love This Soup
There are a few things I adore about this recipe, and I bet you’ll feel the same:
- It’s fast and simple. You don’t need chef skills — just a big pot and about 30 minutes.
- It’s hearty but not heavy. Ground beef and veggies make it filling without being greasy.
- It’s family-approved. Even picky eaters go back for seconds.
- It’s great for meal prep. The flavors get even better the next day.
It’s one of those soups that make you feel good inside — like a warm hug on a cold evening.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s break it down. Here’s everything you’ll need for a big comforting pot of hamburger soup:
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular — your choice)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth (you can use chicken broth too)
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
You can toss in extras like green beans, corn, or peas if you want more veggies. I often use whatever’s in the fridge — this soup is very forgiving.
How to Make Hamburger Soup
Making this soup is almost too easy. Here’s the step-by-step:
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large pot, cook your ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned. Drain any excess grease if needed.
Step 2: Add the Veggies
Throw in the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.
Step 3: Build the Flavor
Add potatoes, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and water. Sprinkle in your seasonings — garlic powder, basil, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Simmer and Relax
Bring it all to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are soft.
That’s it. Your kitchen will smell amazing, and your soup will taste even better.
Flavor Tips and Variations
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne for a little kick.
- Go Italian: Stir in some Italian seasoning and a handful of pasta.
- Make it creamy: Add a splash of cream or a spoonful of sour cream before serving.
- Add more veggies: Green beans, corn, peas, or bell peppers — anything works here.
This soup is like a blank canvas — you can dress it up however you like.
How to Store and Reheat
This soup stores beautifully.
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Just cool it completely first.
- Reheat: Warm on the stove or microwave until hot. Add a bit of broth or water if it thickens up.
Pro tip: it actually tastes better the next day. The flavors get deeper overnight.
What to Serve with Hamburger Soup
Pair it with something simple — like crusty bread, buttered rolls, or a grilled cheese sandwich.
If you want something lighter, serve it with a crisp green salad on the side.
It’s a full meal on its own, but those sides make it extra satisfying.
Why This Soup Feels So Comforting
Honestly, this soup hits a special spot. It’s one of those recipes that remind you of home — no matter where you are. It’s warm, beefy, a little rustic, and full of flavor.
It’s also budget-friendly and uses ingredients you probably already have. On busy nights or lazy weekends, it’s the perfect answer to the question, “What should I make for dinner?”
FAQs About Hamburger Soup
Q1: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken work perfectly. The flavor will be lighter, but still delicious.
Q2: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Brown the beef first, then add everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Q3: Can I add pasta instead of potatoes?
Yes, but cook the pasta separately and stir it in at the end so it doesn’t soak up too much broth.
Q4: Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your broth and seasonings are gluten-free.
Q5: What’s the best way to thicken hamburger soup?
If you want it thicker, mash a few of the cooked potatoes right in the pot or stir in a spoonful of tomato paste.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never made Hamburger Soup before, you’re about to discover a keeper. It’s simple, cozy, and full of flavor — the kind of meal that makes you feel at home no matter where you are.
Make a big pot, grab a spoon, and enjoy that first warm bite — trust me, you’ll be making this one again and again.
