When the weather turns chilly or you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of hamburger meat vegetable soup. This classic homemade soup combines savory ground beef with fresh vegetables, simmered in a flavorful broth that’s both nourishing and satisfying.
It’s the perfect dish to make on a busy weeknight or to prepare in advance for meal prep. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility—you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices, making it a family favorite that never gets boring.
Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, this recipe is straightforward and approachable. Plus, it’s packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients from the vegetables, making it a balanced meal all in one pot.
If you love recipes that are easy to prepare, full of flavor, and great for leftovers, keep reading to discover how to create this delicious hamburger meat vegetable soup from scratch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This hamburger meat vegetable soup is a one-pot wonder that maximizes flavor while minimizing cleanup. It’s perfect for busy households looking for a nutritious, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Here’s why this recipe stands out:
- Hearty and Filling: The ground beef adds a rich, meaty flavor and plenty of protein to keep you satisfied.
- Loaded with Vegetables: Packed with carrots, celery, tomatoes, and more, it’s a great way to sneak in your daily veggies.
- Customizable: You can easily swap or add vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season.
- Family-Friendly: Mild but flavorful, this soup appeals to kids and adults alike.
- Freezer Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for busy nights ahead.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground hamburger meat (80/20 lean)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup frozen green beans (optional)
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment
- Large stockpot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Ladle for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Add the ground hamburger meat to the pot. Break it up with your spoon and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if desired.
- Stir in the minced garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Cook for another 4-5 minutes until vegetables start to soften.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with juice), zucchini, and beef broth. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Season the soup with dried thyme, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes.
- Add frozen green beans and corn (if using). Continue simmering for an additional 10 minutes until all vegetables are tender.
- Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy with your favorite bread or crackers.
Tips & Variations
“For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the soup during cooking.”
- Vegetable Swap: Feel free to replace zucchini with diced potatoes or add kale for more greens.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or homemade chili powder for a subtle kick.
- Make it Hearty: Stir in cooked rice, pasta, or barley to make the soup even more filling.
- Slow Cooker Option: Brown the meat and sauté the veggies first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours.
- Lean Meat Choice: Use lean ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1.5 cups) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 600 mg |
| Vitamin A | 75% DV |
| Vitamin C | 25% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This hamburger meat vegetable soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or fresh dinner rolls to soak up the flavorful broth. For a lighter touch, serve alongside a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
For a family-friendly meal, try topping your soup with a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or a dollop of sour cream. If you enjoy meal prepping, this soup freezes beautifully and reheats well, making it a perfect make-ahead dinner.
If you’re looking for more wholesome meal ideas, check out these related recipes: A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion, Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals, and Best Vegetarian Recipes No Dairy for Delicious Meals.
Conclusion
This hamburger meat vegetable soup recipe is a timeless classic that’s both hearty and wholesome. It’s a delicious way to enjoy a comforting meal filled with fresh vegetables and rich, savory flavors.
The best part? It’s easy to make and customizable to suit your preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand.
Whether you’re warming up after a cold day or preparing a nutritious family dinner, this soup offers a perfect balance of protein, veggies, and satisfying broth. Plus, it’s a great gateway recipe if you want to experiment with different vegetables or spices.
Make a big pot, enjoy the leftovers, and savor the simple joys of homemade soup that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
📖 Recipe Card: Hamburger Meat Vegetable Soup
Description: A hearty and nutritious soup combining ground beef with fresh vegetables. Perfect for a comforting meal any day of the week.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT55M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened.
- Stir in carrots, celery, and green beans; cook for 5 minutes.
- Pour in diced tomatoes and beef broth.
- Add thyme, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Add frozen corn and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 22 g | Fat: 15 g | Carbs: 15 g
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