Hamburger Soup Recipe

Ground beef: The main protein of the soup, providing a rich and hearty flavor.

Onion: Adds a sweet and savory base to the soup.

Garlic: Enhances the overall flavor with its aromatic and pungent taste.

Carrots: Adds sweetness and texture to the soup.

Celery: Provides a subtle crunch and enhances the flavor profile.

Diced tomatoes: Adds acidity and a rich tomato flavor to the broth.

Beef broth: The liquid base of the soup, adding depth and richness.

Frozen corn: Adds a sweet and crunchy element to the soup.

Dried basil: Adds a hint of sweetness and a slightly peppery flavor.

Dried oregano: Adds a warm and aromatic flavor.

Salt: Enhances all the flavors in the soup.

Pepper: Adds a bit of heat and enhances the overall taste.

When browning the ground beef, make sure to break it up into small pieces to ensure even cooking. This will help the meat to brown more evenly and develop a richer flavor. Additionally, when adding the onion and garlic, be sure to cook them until the onion is fully translucent to bring out their natural sweetness and enhance the overall flavor of the soup.

• ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and provides a similar texture and flavor.

• chopped onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder and slightly sweeter flavor, which can add a different depth to the soup.

• garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used if fresh garlic is not available, though it will have a less intense flavor.

• diced carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a slightly sweeter taste and similar texture when cooked.

• diced celery - Substitute with fennel: Fennel provides a subtle anise flavor and similar crunch to celery.

• diced tomatoes - Substitute with crushed tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes can provide a similar flavor and consistency, though the texture will be slightly different.

• beef broth - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth is a lighter alternative and can still provide a rich flavor base.

• frozen corn - Substitute with canned corn: Canned corn can be used if frozen corn is not available, though it may be slightly softer.

• dried basil - Substitute with dried thyme: Dried thyme offers a different but complementary herbal note to the soup.

• dried oregano - Substitute with dried marjoram: Dried marjoram has a similar flavor profile to oregano and can be used as a direct substitute.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, though it will also add a different depth to the soup.

• pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor profile.

• Allow the hamburger soup to cool completely before storing. This helps maintain the integrity of the vegetables and beef.
• Transfer the cooled soup into airtight containers. For portion control, consider using individual serving-sized containers.
• Label each container with the date of preparation. This ensures you keep track of freshness and avoid any potential food safety issues.
• Store the containers in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the soup within 3-4 days. The flavors will meld beautifully, making it even more delicious.
• For longer storage, place the containers in the freezer. The hamburger soup can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its hearty flavor and texture.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the quality of the vegetables and beef.
• Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, heating in 1-2 minute intervals and stirring in between.
• If the soup appears too thick after reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary, as flavors can sometimes mellow during storage.

• For stovetop reheating:

  1. Pour the hamburger soup into a large pot.
  2. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
  3. Once the soup reaches a gentle simmer, continue to heat for an additional 5-10 minutes until vegetables and ground beef are heated through.

• For microwave reheating:

  1. Transfer a portion of the hamburger soup to a microwave-safe bowl.
  2. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to prevent splatters.
  3. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
  4. If the soup is not hot enough, continue to heat in 1-minute increments, stirring in between, until the desired temperature is reached.

• For oven reheating:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the hamburger soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil.
  3. Heat in the oven for 20-30 minutes, or until the soup is thoroughly heated.
  4. Stir halfway through the heating process to ensure even warming.

• For slow cooker reheating:

  1. Transfer the hamburger soup to the slow cooker.
  2. Set the slow cooker to the low setting.
  3. Heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the soup is hot and ready to serve.

• Large pot: A large pot is essential for browning the ground beef and cooking the soup. It provides enough space to accommodate all the ingredients and allows for even cooking.

• Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is useful for stirring the ingredients without scratching the surface of your pot.

• Knife: A knife is needed for chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, and dicing the carrots and celery.

• Cutting board: A cutting board provides a safe and stable surface for chopping and dicing the vegetables.

• Measuring cups: Measuring cups are used to measure out the correct amounts of vegetables, broth, and other ingredients.

• Can opener: A can opener is necessary for opening the can of diced tomatoes.

• Colander: A colander is useful for draining any excess fat from the browned ground beef.

• Garlic press: A garlic press can be used to mince the garlic quickly and efficiently.

• Ladle: A ladle is perfect for serving the soup once it is ready.

• Measuring spoons: Measuring spoons are used to measure out the dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.

Pre-chop vegetables: Prepare the onion, carrots, and celery in advance and store them in the fridge.

Use pre-minced garlic: Save time by using store-bought minced garlic instead of mincing fresh cloves.

Frozen vegetables: Opt for frozen corn and other pre-cut frozen vegetables to reduce prep time.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick meal later.

One-pot method: Cook everything in one large pot to minimize cleanup time.