Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that comes together in a flash? Look no further! This recipe utilizes the humble hamburger and onion soup mix to create a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner. It's one of those easy recipes that's surprisingly versatile, allowing for creative twists based on your preferences. Get ready to elevate your simple hamburger into a hearty, flavorful experience! This healthy meal is also a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular, your choice!)
- 1 packet onion soup mix (choose your favorite brand)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup frozen peas or corn for added veggies
Instructions:
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Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease.
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Stir in the Flavor: Once the beef is browned, stir in the onion soup mix, diced tomatoes (undrained), beef broth, water, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Season generously with salt and pepper.
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Simmer to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded beautifully. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor becomes.
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Add Veggies (Optional): If using frozen peas or corn, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking time. This allows them to heat through without becoming mushy.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the delicious hamburger and onion soup mix into bowls and serve hot. This is fantastic on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
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Don't Overcrowd the Pan: When browning the beef, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will prevent the beef from browning properly and could result in steaming instead of searing. Work in batches if necessary.
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Adjust Seasoning to Your Taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce to your liking. Some people prefer a bolder flavor, while others prefer a more subtle taste.
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Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme on hand, use about 1 tablespoon instead of 1 teaspoon of dried thyme. Fresh herbs have a more intense flavor.
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Thicken the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can simmer it uncovered for a longer period to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water during the last few minutes of cooking.
Variations on this Quick Dinner Idea:
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy twist.
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Cheesy Delight: Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese during the last few minutes of cooking for a cheesy, comforting experience.
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Hearty Addition: Add cooked barley, rice, or quinoa for a more substantial and filling meal.
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Beef Alternatives: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This hamburger and onion soup mix recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a perfect example of how delicious dishes can be made quickly and easily, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a simple yet satisfying weekend supper. Enjoy!