Hearty Hamburger Soup: A Comforting One-Pot Meal
When you’re craving a warm, nourishing, and delicious one-dish meal, this hearty hamburger soup is exactly what you need. This recipe has been a beloved family favorite for over two decades, providing comfort and flavor with every spoonful. Easy to make and brimming with vegetables and savory ingredients, this soup is perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet uncomplicated. Feel free to adjust the ingredients to your taste, adding more of your favorite veggies or spices for a truly personalized dish.
Preparation & Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Recipe Category: One-Dish Meal
Keywords: Vegetable, Meat, < 60 Mins, Stove Top, Easy, Inexpensive
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb |
| Onion | 1 medium, diced |
| Water | 2 1/2 cups |
| Elbow macaroni | 1 cup |
| Celery | 1/2 cup, chopped |
| Zucchini | 1 medium, diced |
| Cabbage | 1 cup, shredded |
| Beef bouillon granules | 1 tbsp |
| Garlic | 1 clove, minced |
| Tomatoes (canned, diced) | 1 can (14.5 oz) |
| Kidney beans (canned, drained) | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Whole kernel corn (canned) | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Cheddar cheese (optional) | 1/2 cup, shredded |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 249.9 kcal |
| Fat Content | 9.4 g |
| Saturated Fat Content | 3.5 g |
| Cholesterol Content | 38.6 mg |
| Sodium Content | 233.5 mg |
| Carbohydrate Content | 26.6 g |
| Fiber Content | 4.2 g |
| Sugar Content | 5.7 g |
| Protein Content | 15.9 g |
Instructions
-
Brown the Meat
In a large 4-quart Dutch oven, cook the ground beef and diced onion over medium heat. Stir occasionally to break up the meat and cook until the beef is browned and the onions have softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pan. -
Add the Vegetables and Liquids
To the same Dutch oven, add the water, elbow macaroni, chopped celery, diced zucchini, shredded cabbage, beef bouillon granules, minced garlic, canned diced tomatoes (with juices), kidney beans, and whole kernel corn. Stir to combine all the ingredients evenly. -
Bring to a Boil
Break up the tomatoes with your spoon as you stir, allowing the juices to blend with the rest of the ingredients. Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat. -
Simmer the Soup
Once the soup has reached a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the Dutch oven. Let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The macaroni should be tender, and the vegetables will have softened by this time. -
Serve with Cheese
If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the soup before serving. Allow the cheese to melt and create a deliciously creamy topping for the soup. -
Enjoy!
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. This soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread or crackers on the side for added comfort.
Tips & Variations
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to experiment with the vegetables you include. Add bell peppers, spinach, or carrots for more color and nutrition.
- Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when you add the tomatoes.
- Make It Heartier: For a richer soup, stir in some grated Parmesan or a dollop of sour cream just before serving.
- Make it Vegetarian: Omit the ground beef and replace the beef bouillon with vegetable bouillon granules for a vegetarian-friendly version of this soup.
Final Thoughts
This Hearty Hamburger Soup is the epitome of comfort food. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold evening or preparing a big batch to feed a crowd, this easy, one-pot dish is sure to satisfy. It’s affordable, quick, and customizable to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. The combination of hearty vegetables, flavorful beef, and tender macaroni creates a filling meal that is both delicious and nutritious. Add your own spin to it, and it might just become your new family favorite too!
