Are you craving a hearty, comforting meal that's both delicious and easy to make? Look no further! This Hamburger Soup recipe is a family favorite, perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner. It's packed with flavor, brimming with tender hamburger, and surprisingly simple to whip up. This recipe is a testament to the fact that homemade cooking doesn't have to be complicated to be incredibly satisfying. Get ready to experience the best of the bridge between simple and delicious!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups beef broth
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Browning the Beef and Sautéing Vegetables
In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon. Once browned, drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Simmering the Soup
Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), kidney beans, macaroni, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the macaroni is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Step 3: Serving and Enjoying
Once the soup is cooked, taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your delicious and easy homemade hamburger soup!
Tips for the Best Hamburger Soup:
- For a richer flavor: Use a combination of ground beef and ground chuck.
- Add some spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
- Make it your own: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, corn, or green beans.
- Thicken it up: If you prefer a thicker soup, stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water during the last few minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Hamburger Soup: Replace the ground beef with 1 cup of cooked lentils or crumbled vegetarian ground beef substitute.
- Spicy Hamburger Soup: Add a diced jalapeño pepper along with the other vegetables.
- Creamy Hamburger Soup: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This hearty and flavorful hamburger soup is a perfect example of a healthy meal that’s quick to prepare. It’s a great option for a quick dinner idea, and it’s sure to become a staple in your family's recipe collection. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying dish, and don't forget to share your culinary creations with us!