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 6 -7 people.
1. Old Fashioned Hamburger Soup Recipe
Ingredients
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2 ½ pounds ground beef
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1 large or 2 medium onions, diced
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5 stalks celery, diced
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6 garlic cloves, minced
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1 tablespoon paprika
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2 green bell peppers, coarsely chopped
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2 pounds carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-size pieces
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3 pounds potatoes, peeled and chopped into bite-size pieces
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6 cups tomato juice or vegetable juice (or one 46-ounce bottle)
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12 cups beef stock
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¼ cup ketchup (optional)
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2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
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2 or 3 bay leaves
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2 tablespoons brown sugar
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2 cups frozen or fresh corn
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2 cups frozen or fresh green peas
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1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, heat the pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This should take about 8–10 minutes.
Once browned, drain off any excess fat to prevent the soup from becoming greasy. Leaving a small amount of fat is fine for flavor, but removing most of it helps keep the soup light and clean-tasting.
Step 2: Add Aromatics for Flavor
Add the diced onions, celery, and minced garlic directly into the pot with the cooked beef. Sauté for 5–6 minutes, or until the onions become soft and translucent.
Stir in paprika and let it toast for about 30 seconds. This helps release its aroma and adds a subtle smokiness to the soup base.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables
Next, add the green bell peppers, carrots, and potatoes to the pot. Stir everything together to combine and coat the vegetables with the beef and seasonings. These vegetables form the heart of the soup, giving it body and texture.
Step 4: Build the Soup Base
Pour in the tomato juice (or vegetable juice) and beef stock. Stir to combine. The mixture will look quite full — remember, this recipe makes a large batch!
Add the ketchup (if using), Italian seasoning, bay leaves, and brown sugar. The ketchup adds a touch of richness and tang, while the brown sugar balances the acidity of the tomato juice.
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cover the pot partially and let it cook for 45–50 minutes, stirring occasionally.
During this time, the potatoes and carrots will become tender, and the flavors will meld beautifully.
Step 5: Add Corn, Peas, and Beans
Once the vegetables are tender, stir in the corn, green peas, and kidney beans. Continue simmering for another 10–15 minutes, just until the peas and corn are heated through and the soup thickens slightly.
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your preference.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the bay leaves before serving. Ladle the soup into large bowls and enjoy it hot.
2. Tips for Perfect Old Fashioned Hamburger Soup
Use Lean Ground Beef:
Choose 85% lean beef for the best flavor and texture. It has enough fat for richness but won’t make the soup oily.
Don’t Skip Browning:
Browning the beef deeply before adding other ingredients adds a layer of savory flavor that gives the soup its signature homemade taste.
Add Vegetables in Stages:
If you like your vegetables firmer, you can add carrots and potatoes first, then stir in peppers and peas later to keep their texture crisp.
Customize the Broth:
Substitute tomato juice with vegetable juice for a brighter flavor or a mix of both for balance. You can also add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for umami depth.
Simmer Gently:
Avoid boiling the soup vigorously after adding vegetables. A gentle simmer helps all ingredients cook evenly and keeps potatoes from breaking apart.
Make It Ahead:
Like many soups, Hamburger Soup tastes even better the next day after the flavors have developed. Reheat gently on the stove for the best results.
3. Serving Suggestions
With Bread or Rolls:
Serve the soup with buttered crusty bread, dinner rolls, or garlic toast to soak up the savory broth.
With Crackers:
Classic saltine or oyster crackers add a satisfying crunch and make a great contrast to the hearty soup.
As a Main Course:
This soup is filling enough to serve as a main dish. Pair it with a simple green salad for a well-balanced meal.
With a Side of Rice:
Spoon the soup over steamed white or brown rice for a thicker, stew-like dish that’s extra satisfying.
4. Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Keep in mind that these meats are milder, so you might want to add extra seasoning or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes. Brown the beef and onions first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients, except peas and corn, and cook on Low for 6–8 hours or High for 3–4 hours. Stir in the peas and corn in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
What are the best potatoes to use?
Waxy potatoes like red potatoes or Yukon Golds hold their shape best during simmering. Avoid starchy potatoes like Russets, which can break down and make the soup too thick.
How can I thicken the soup?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, mash a few pieces of cooked potato in the pot or stir in a slurry of 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water and simmer until slightly thickened.
How long does Hamburger Soup last in the fridge or freezer?
Stored in airtight containers, it lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stovetop.
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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