Hamburger Soup Recipe

Ground beef: Provides the hearty, meaty base for the soup

Onion: Adds a sweet and savory flavor

Garlic: Enhances the overall taste with its aromatic quality

Carrots: Adds sweetness and a bit of crunch

Celery: Provides a subtle, earthy flavor and texture

Diced tomatoes: Adds acidity and depth to the soup

Beef broth: Forms the flavorful liquid base

Frozen corn: Adds sweetness and texture

Green beans: Contributes a fresh, slightly crunchy element

Dried basil: Adds a hint of sweetness and aromatic flavor

Dried oregano: Provides a robust, earthy flavor

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 deeper flavor. Additionally, when adding the onion and garlic, allow them to cook until the onion is fully translucent to bring out their natural sweetness, which will enhance the overall taste of the soup.

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

• onion - Substitute with leek: Leeks offer a milder flavor and can be used in the same quantity as onions.

• garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used if fresh garlic is unavailable, using ¼ teaspoon for each clove.

• carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a similar texture and sweetness, making them a good alternative.

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

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

• beef broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth is a good alternative for those avoiding beef, providing a similar depth of flavor.

• frozen corn - Substitute with fresh corn: Fresh corn can be used in the same quantity and offers a slightly sweeter taste.

• green beans - Substitute with snap peas: Snap peas provide a similar crunch and can be used in the same quantity.

• dried basil - Substitute with fresh basil: Fresh basil can be used at a ratio of 3:1 to dried basil for a more vibrant flavor.

• dried oregano - Substitute with fresh oregano: Fresh oregano can be used at a ratio of 3:1 to dried oregano for a more aromatic flavor.

• Allow the hamburger soup to cool completely before storing. This helps to prevent condensation and maintain the soup's texture and flavor.

• Transfer the cooled soup into airtight containers. For easy portion control, consider using individual serving-sized containers.

• Label each container with the date of preparation. This ensures you keep track of freshness and consume the soup within a safe timeframe.

• Store the containers in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the soup within 3-4 days. The beef broth and vegetables will maintain their quality during this period.

• For longer storage, place the airtight containers in the freezer. The hamburger soup can be frozen for up to 3 months without significant loss of flavor or texture.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps preserve the integrity of the ingredients.

• Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Ensure the soup reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to guarantee it is heated through.

• Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave. Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until the soup is hot.

• If the soup appears too thick after reheating, add a splash of beef broth or water to reach the desired consistency. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.

• Enjoy your hamburger soup with a side of gluten-free bread or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

• Stovetop Method:

  1. Pour the hamburger soup into a saucepan.
  2. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
  3. Once the soup begins to simmer, reduce the heat to low and continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes.
  4. Check that the ground beef and vegetables are heated through before serving.

• Microwave Method:

  1. Transfer the soup to a microwave-safe bowl.
  2. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
  3. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  4. Continue heating in 1-minute increments until the soup is hot throughout.
  5. Let it sit for a minute before serving to ensure even heat distribution.

• Slow Cooker Method:

  1. Pour the leftover hamburger soup into the slow cooker.
  2. Set the slow cooker to low heat.
  3. Cover and heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
  4. Ensure the soup is thoroughly heated before serving.

• Oven Method:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Transfer the soup to an oven-safe dish and cover with foil.
  3. Heat in the oven for about 20-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.
  4. Check that the soup is hot throughout before serving.

• Large pot: A large pot is essential for browning the ground beef and cooking the soup. It should be big enough to hold all the ingredients comfortably.

• Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is useful for stirring the ingredients as they cook, ensuring even cooking and preventing sticking.

• Knife: A knife is needed for chopping the onion, carrots, celery, and green beans.

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

• Measuring cups: Measuring cups are used to measure out the beef broth and frozen corn accurately.

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

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

• Ladle: A ladle is helpful for serving the hot soup into bowls.

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

Use frozen vegetables: Opt for frozen corn and green beans to save time on washing and chopping.

One-pot cooking: Use a large pot to brown the ground beef and cook the soup, minimizing cleanup.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze portions for quick meals later.

Pre-measure spices: Measure out the basil and oregano ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.