Hamburger Soup: A Classic Comfort Dish
Imagine a chilly evening, the wind gently rattling the leaves outside, and you’re inside, cozy and warm, with a bowl of hearty Hamburger Soup. This delightful recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it’s also loaded with nutritious vegetables, lean beef, savory diced tomatoes, and comforting potatoes. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in a warm hug, perfect for those cooler nights.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Hamburger Soup is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s budget-friendly, making it ideal for feeding the whole family without breaking the bank. You can prepare it ahead of time, and it reheats beautifully, ensuring you have delicious meals ready to go all week. Plus, it freezes like a dream, so you can always have some on hand for those busy nights. Pair it with a fresh green salad and some crusty bread, and you’ve got yourself a perfect meal.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large saucepan
- Stirring spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- ¼ teaspoon oregano
- ¼ teaspoon basil
- ⅛ teaspoon seasoning salt
- 1 (2-ounce) package onion soup mix (for 3 or 4 servings)
- 6 cups boiling water
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 4 carrots, cut up
- ½ cup corn
- 1 cup celery, sliced
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large saucepan, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the salt, pepper, oregano, basil, seasoning salt, and onion soup mix to the beef. Stir well to combine.
- Pour in the boiling water and tomato sauce. Cover the saucepan and let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes.
- While the soup is simmering, prepare the celery and carrots. Add them to the simmering mixture along with the corn.
- Continue to cook for another 30 minutes.
- Add the elbow macaroni to the saucepan and let everything simmer for an additional 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add more water if necessary.
Tips for Success
- Ensure you drain the fat from the beef to keep the soup from becoming too greasy.
- Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of water or let it simmer uncovered for a while longer.
Additional Tips and Variations
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Feel free to swap out the vegetables depending on what you have on hand.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This soup is packed with protein from the lean beef and fiber from the vegetables, making it a nutritious choice. The exact nutritional content will vary based on portion size and specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative if you prefer a lighter version.
Conclusion
This Hamburger Soup is a simple yet satisfying dish that promises to warm you up and delight your taste buds. It’s a perfect go-to recipe for busy weeknights or whenever you need a comforting meal. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experiences or any personal twists you added. Bon appétit!