Crock Pot Hamburger Soup Recipe for Comfort

Introduction

Warm, hearty, and nourishing, Crock Pot Hamburger Soup stands as an enduring favorite among comfort food enthusiasts. This classic dish offers a wholesome blend of tender ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and savory broth, all simmered to perfection in a slow cooker. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this recipe embodies simplicity and flavor, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. Its rustic charm and nutritious profile make it a go-to meal for families seeking a satisfying yet uncomplicated dinner. As featured on Love With Recipes, this recipe emphasizes convenience without sacrificing taste, allowing you to create a delicious, filling soup with minimal effort. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly evening or prepare a large batch for leftovers, this crock pot hamburger soup is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Estimated Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time

Approximately 9 hours and 20 minutes, which includes prep, cooking, and serving time.

Prep Time

20 minutes — This involves chopping vegetables, browning the meat, and preparing the broth mixture.

Cook Time

9 hours — Slow cooking allows flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich, hearty soup.

Needed Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan — for browning the beef and sautéing onions.
• Chef’s knife — sharp and reliable for dicing vegetables.
• Cutting board — sturdy and spacious for chopping ingredients.
• Measuring spoons and cups — for accurate ingredient measurement.
• Whisk — to blend tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and broth.
• Large mixing bowl — for whisking the broth mixture.
• Crock pot or slow cooker — the star appliance for slow simmering.
• Slotted spoon — for draining excess fat from cooked beef.
• Stirring spoon or spatula — to combine ingredients in the crock pot.
• Ladle — for serving the soup in bowls.
• Storage containers — for leftovers and freezing.

Tags

Comfort Food, Slow Cooker, Easy Dinner, Hearty Soup, Family Friendly, Budget Friendly, One-Pot Meal, Healthy, Gluten-Free (if served with gluten-free bread), Kid-Friendly, Potluck, Weeknight Dinner, Inexpensive, Nutritious, Vegetables, Meat

Serving Size

Each serving provides approximately 1 bowl of soup, with a total of 8 servings per recipe.

Difficulty Level

Easy — Suitable for beginners and busy cooks, requiring minimal active cooking time and simple techniques.

Allergen Information

• Contains: Beef, Onion, Celery, Cabbage
• Potential allergens: None inherent, but check labels of broth and Worcestershire sauce for gluten or preservatives if necessary.

Dietary Preference

Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free broth), Low-Carb (moderate), High-Protein, Nut-Free, Dairy-Free (if dairy toppings are omitted). Customize with vegetarian substitutes or additional vegetables for vegan options.

Course

Main Course, Soups & Stews

Cuisine

American Comfort Food

Ingredients

Ingredients in Detailed Tables

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté Onions

Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of oil—olive or vegetable oil works well. Once hot, add the diced sweet onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and golden brown—about 5 to 7 minutes. This caramelization process intensifies their natural sweetness and develops a rich base flavor. Be attentive to avoid burning; adjust the heat as needed. Once the onions are ready, transfer them to a plate or bowl to cool slightly.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In the same skillet used for the onions, add the ground beef. Breaking it apart with a spatula, cook the meat until it is fully browned and no pink remains—about 8 to 10 minutes. During the cooking process, season lightly with salt and pepper. Once browned, drain excess fat thoroughly using a slotted spoon or by pouring into a sieve over the sink. Removing excess grease prevents the soup from becoming greasy and helps maintain a light, appealing broth.

Step 3: Prepare Vegetables

While the beef is browning, prepare your vegetables. Rinse the carrot and celery stalk under cold water. Peel the carrot using a vegetable peeler, then dice it into small, uniform pieces—about 1/4 inch cubes. Cut the celery stalk into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking. For the cabbage, remove the outer leaves, then chop finely or shred into thin strips. Aim for about 4 cups of shredded cabbage, which will soften and meld into the soup during slow cooking.

Step 4: Combine Broth and Tomato Paste

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the no-added-salt tomato paste, reduced-sodium Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth or stock. Use a whisk or a fork to blend them until smooth and well combined. This mixture forms the flavorful base of the soup, providing acidity, umami, and richness that will infuse the ingredients during slow cooking.

Step 5: Assemble the Soup in the Crock Pot

Transfer the browned ground beef and sautéed onions into your crock pot. Add the diced carrots, celery, and shredded cabbage on top. Pour the broth mixture over the entire contents of the crock pot. Use a large spoon or spatula to gently stir, ensuring that all ingredients are evenly coated and distributed. Do not overmix; a gentle stir suffices to blend flavors without breaking down the vegetables excessively.

Step 6: Slow Cook

Cover the crock pot with its lid securely. Set the temperature to low. Let the soup simmer gently for 8 to 10 hours. During this time, the flavors will meld, and the vegetables will soften to tender perfection. The long cooking process also allows the beef to become incredibly tender and the broth to develop a hearty, savory profile. For optimal flavor, avoid opening the lid during the cooking process to retain heat and moisture.

Step 7: Final Tasting and Adjustments

Once the cooking time has elapsed, open the lid carefully. Stir the soup gently. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed—adding more salt or pepper to suit your preference. If the broth has reduced slightly during cooking, you can add a splash of hot water or additional broth to reach your desired consistency. For a richer flavor, consider stirring in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme just before serving.

Step 8: Serving

Ladle the steaming hot soup into bowls. Garnish with optional toppings such as chopped parsley, grated cheese, or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness. Serve immediately alongside crusty bread, a crisp salad, or crunchy crackers for a complete meal.

Preparation Tips

• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables such as green beans, peas, or zucchini during the last hour of cooking for added texture and flavor.
• Meat Substitutes: For a vegetarian version, substitute the beef with lentils or mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
• Flavor Boosters: Incorporate spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, or crushed red pepper flakes to elevate the flavor profile.
• Vegetable Prep: For time-saving, dice all vegetables ahead of time and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
• Meal Prep: Prepare the ingredients the night before, and assemble in the crock pot in the morning for an effortless dinner.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Adjusting Thickness: If the soup is too thick after cooking, stir in a bit of hot water or additional broth to loosen it up. Conversely, if it’s too thin, remove the lid during the last hour to allow some liquid to evaporate or add a thickening agent like cornstarch mixed with cold water.
• Seasoning: Always taste before adding more salt, as broth and Worcestershire sauce already contribute saltiness.
• Flavor Development: For deeper flavor, prepare the broth mixture the night before and refrigerate, allowing the flavors to meld overnight.
• Herb Add-ins: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves added during cooking enhance the aroma and depth of flavor.

Add-ons and Variations

• Cheese Topping: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack on top before serving for a creamy finish.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the broth mixture for a spicy kick.
• Vegetable Boost: Incorporate spinach, kale, or chopped bell peppers during the last hour of cooking for added nutrients.
• Extra Protein: Add cooked beans or lentils for a higher protein and fiber content.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls: Perfect for dipping into the rich broth.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with vinaigrette complements the warm soup beautifully.
• Crackers or Breadsticks: Crunchy accompaniments to scoop up the soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside for a wholesome, balanced meal.

Improvements and Customizations

• Adding Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill added at the end brighten the dish.
• Spice Variations: Incorporate cumin or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor profile.
• Texture Enhancements: Toss in cooked pasta or rice during the last 30 minutes for a more filling, hearty texture.
• Flavor Layers: Sauté garlic with onions for an additional layer of aroma and flavor.

Save and Store

Refrigeration

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave until steaming hot, adding a splash of broth if necessary to restore moisture.

Freezing

Transfer cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Leave some space for expansion. Label with date and contents. Freeze for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ground beef with lentils, chopped mushrooms, or plant-based meat alternatives. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Adjust seasonings to enhance umami flavor, perhaps adding soy sauce or smoked paprika.

Can I prepare this soup in advance?

Absolutely. Assemble all ingredients in the crock pot and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, start the slow cooker on low. The flavors will deepen after a longer cooking time.

Can I add pasta or rice?

Yes, but add it during the last 30-60 minutes of cooking to prevent over-softening. Use small pasta shapes or pre-cooked rice for the best texture.

What if I don’t have a crock pot?

You can simmer the ingredients in a large pot on the stovetop over low heat for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Adjust heat as necessary to maintain a gentle simmer.

How do I adjust the recipe for more servings?

Simply double or triple the ingredients proportionally. Use a larger crock pot or divide the ingredients into multiple cookers as needed. Maintain the same cooking times, checking for doneness.

Conclusion

This Crock Pot Hamburger Soup exemplifies comfort food at its best—rich in flavor, simple to prepare, and adaptable to various dietary preferences. Its long, slow simmer ensures an infusion of flavors and tender ingredients that meld into a satisfying, nutritious meal. Perfectly suited for busy households, it offers a wholesome solution to weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. The versatility of this recipe allows for endless customization, making it a dependable staple for winter warmth or any time you crave a hearty bowl of goodness. Remember to visit Love With Recipes for more delicious, tested recipes designed to bring joy and ease into your cooking routine. Embrace the process, enjoy the aroma, and delight in every spoonful of this classic soup.

References

• Food Network. “Slow Cooker Beef and Vegetable Soup,” accessible at https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/slow-cooker-beef-and-vegetable-soup
• Allrecipes. “Hearty Hamburger Soup,” accessed at https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/hearty-hamburger-soup/