Hamburger soup is a hearty, comforting dish that brings back memories of family dinners and cozy evenings. This old-fashioned recipe is simple to prepare, packed with vegetables, and perfect for satisfying your hunger. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this classic soup that serves 8 people.

1. Old Fashioned Hamburger Soup Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 5 cups water
  • 1 (16 ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 (10 ounce) package frozen corn kernels
  • 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 cup chopped carrots
  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • 1 cup chopped onion
  • 6 beef bouillon cubes
  • 3 tablespoons ketchup
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Brown the Beef

Begin by browning the lean ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat into small pieces as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat.

Add Vegetables and Liquids

Stir in the chopped carrots, celery, and onion. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, and frozen corn kernels to the pot.

Season the Soup

Add the beef bouillon cubes, ketchup, dried basil, and salt. Stir everything together until well combined. The bouillon cubes will dissolve as the soup simmers, infusing it with rich flavor.

Simmer to Perfection

Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The vegetables should be tender, and the flavors will meld beautifully.

Serve Hot

Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and serve it piping hot. It’s a perfect meal for chilly days or when you’re craving a nostalgic comfort food.

2. Tips to Perfect Hamburger Soup

Choose Quality Ground Beef

Using lean ground beef helps avoid excess grease in the soup while still providing a rich, meaty flavor.

Chop Vegetables Uniformly

Ensure the carrots, celery, and onions are chopped to similar sizes so they cook evenly.

Adjust the Seasoning

Taste the soup after it has simmered and adjust the salt or basil according to your preference. For more depth, consider adding a pinch of black pepper or a splash of Worcestershire sauce.

Use Fresh Ingredients When Possible

While canned and frozen vegetables are convenient, substituting fresh tomatoes or corn can enhance the flavor.

Thicken the Soup

For a thicker texture, add a couple of peeled, diced potatoes or a handful of uncooked pasta during the simmering stage.

3. What to Eat with Hamburger Soup

Hamburger soup is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to complete your meal:

Crusty Bread or Rolls

Serve with a warm, crusty bread or soft dinner rolls to soak up the flavorful broth.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

A gooey, golden grilled cheese is a classic companion to any hearty soup.

Side Salad

A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.

Crackers or Cornbread

For a more rustic option, try serving the soup with buttery cornbread or crunchy crackers.

4. How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

Storing

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If reheating from frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming. Alternatively, use a microwave to heat individual portions, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

This old-fashioned hamburger soup is a delightful dish that’s easy to make, packed with wholesome ingredients, and perfect for family meals or meal prepping. With just a few simple steps and some creative pairings, you’ll have a cozy, comforting meal ready to enjoy!

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Julia Jane is a home cook inspired by her mother's cooking. With the desire to share my cooking experiences with everyone, she created this website

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