Hamburger vegetable soup is a delightful and hearty dish that combines the savory flavors of ground beef with an array of colorful vegetables. Perfect for chilly days or as a nutritious meal for the family, this soup is easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Enjoy a bowlful of comfort that’s both filling and healthy!
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup chopped carrots
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 cup corn
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 6 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) of hamburger vegetable soup contains approximately 250 calories, 15g protein, 10g carbohydrates, 5g fat, and 3g fiber. This is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. 2. Drain excess fat from the pot. 3. Add the diced onion and garlic; sauté until the onion is translucent. 4. Stir in the chopped carrots and cook for about 5 minutes. 5. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil. 6. Add the diced tomatoes, corn, peas, and Italian seasoning. 7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 8. Reduce heat to a simmer and cover the pot. 9. Let the soup simmer for 20 minutes to blend flavors. 10. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers. 
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Additionally, feel free to add any vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to customize the flavor and nutrition.
Serving and Pairings
This hamburger vegetable soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside grilled cheese sandwiches.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not browning the meat properly, which can affect flavor.
- Overcooking vegetables, making them mushy.
- Using too much salt at the beginning; adjust seasoning at the end.
- Not allowing the soup to simmer long enough for flavors to meld.
- Skipping the browning of onions and garlic for added depth.
Helpful Tips
- Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels.
- Experiment with different herbs for unique flavor profiles.
- Make a double batch for easy meals throughout the week.
- Top with fresh parsley or cheese for added flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can prepare this soup in a slow cooker by browning the meat first, then adding all ingredients and cooking on low for 6-8 hours.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth and avoid any added ingredients that contain gluten.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers, potatoes, or green beans.
How do I thicken the soup?
To thicken the soup, you can add a slurry of cornstarch and water or blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh vegetables can be used. Just be sure to chop them into small, uniform pieces for even cooking.
Conclusion
Hamburger vegetable soup is a comforting and nourishing dish that brings together the best of hearty ingredients. It’s perfect for family dinners and can be easily customized to suit your taste. Enjoy this delightful soup that warms both body and soul!
Hamburger Vegetable Soup
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup corn
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Drain excess fat from the pot.
- Add the diced onion and garlic; sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the chopped carrots and cook for about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil.
- Add the diced tomatoes, corn, peas, and Italian seasoning.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and cover the pot.
- Let the soup simmer for 20 minutes to blend flavors.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.
Nutrition
