Easy One-Pot Hamburger Soup (Hearty & Ready in 30 Minutes)

Looking for a comforting dinner that’s quick, healthy, and kid-approved? This easy hamburger soup recipe is the answer. Packed with ground beef, fresh vegetables, and savory broth, it’s a one-pot wonder perfect for busy weeknights or make-ahead meals. And the best part? It’s ready in just 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: 30-minute prep-to-table dinner
• One-Pot Convenience: Less mess, fewer dishes
• Hearty & Nutritious: Loaded with protein and vegetables
• Budget-Friendly: Pantry staples and affordable ingredients
• Customizable: Use what you have on hand
• Freezer-Friendly: Perfect for meal prep

How to Make Hamburger Soup

1. Brown the beef and aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, cook ground beef with onion and garlic until browned. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes.
2. Add vegetables and liquids: Mix in carrots, celery, and potatoes. Pour in beef broth, tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings.
3. Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover. Simmer 20–25 minutes until vegetables are tender.
4. Adjust seasoning: Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed. Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving.

Expert Tips for Best Results

• Use lean beef: 85/15 or 90/10 for flavor without greasiness.
• Brown tomato paste: Don’t skip this step for depth of flavor.
• Uniform veggie cuts: Ensures even cooking.
• Season gradually: Adjust salt at the end to avoid overdoing it.
• Rest before serving: Let flavors meld before digging in.

Variations & Customizations

• Vegetable Add-ins: Green beans, corn, peas, bell peppers
• Protein Swaps: Ground turkey, chicken, or sausage
• Spice It Up: Add jalapeño, chili flakes, or hot sauce
• Herb Upgrades: Thyme, rosemary, parsley
• Cheesy Finish: Shredded cheddar or a dollop of sour cream

Annie’s Table

Hamburger Soup – Hearty One-Pot Comfort Food

This hearty hamburger soup combines lean ground beef, fresh vegetables, and savory broth in one pot. It’s quick, comforting, and perfect for meal prep.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 8 people

Calories: 800

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1½ pounds lean ground beef 85/15 or 90/10
• 1 large yellow onion diced
• 4 garlic cloves minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 medium carrots peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks diced
• 2 russet potatoes peeled and diced
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes with juices
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

Equipment

• 1 Large Dutch oven or heavy pot
• 1 Sharp chef’s knife
• 1 Cutting board
• 1 Wooden spoon

Method

 

1. In a large pot over medium heat, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic for 8–10 minutes until browned.
2. Stir in tomato paste and cook 2 minutes until darkened and fragrant.
3. Add carrots, celery, potatoes, broth, tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and oregano. Stir to combine.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes until vegetables are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning. Let soup rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version (add 1 tbsp oil).
• Mash a few potatoes into the broth to naturally thicken the soup.
• Soup freezes well for up to 3 months in airtight containers.
• Add green beans, peas, corn, or bell peppers for extra vegetables.

Storage & Reheating

Fridge: Store in airtight containers up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze up to 3 months. Cool first and leave room in containers.
Reheating: Thaw overnight and warm gently on stove. Add broth if too thick.

FAQs About Hamburger Soup

• Can I use ground turkey? Yes. Add 1 tbsp oil before browning to avoid sticking.
• Too thin? Mash a few potatoes in the pot to thicken.
• Too salty? Add extra diced potatoes to absorb salt.
• Slow cooker method? Brown beef and onions first, then cook on low 6-8 hrs.
• Why is it bland? You likely skipped browning or tomato paste step.

More One-Pot Comfort Food

• 30-Minute Creamy Chicken Pasta
• One-Pot Vegetarian Chili
• Freezer-Friendly Soup Collection

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