35-Minutes Hamburger Vegetable Soup (Wholesome Goodness)

This is an easy hamburger vegetable soup recipe, which is delicious. Little else can beat a hamburger vegetable soup that is healthy, hearty, and tasty.

A healthy soup recipe like this is impressive, especially when it is packed with protein, veggies and is also comforting!

It is easy to make, containing 7 vegetables, with super flavorful beef and a delicious tomato broth! What more could you ask for!

This is the ideal soup to cozy up with on a cold winter’s day. It will warm your soul and give you the energy you need to get through the colder weather!

What Is Hamburger Vegetable Soup?

Hamburger Vegetable Soup is a hearty blend of ground beef, and a medley of fresh vegetables simmered together in a flavorful broth.

This soup combines the savory essence of the hamburger with the wholesome goodness of garden-picked veggies. 

Each spoonful delivers a satisfying bite of meat complemented by vegetables’ diverse textures and tastes. It’s a comforting, one-pot meal that effortlessly marries simplicity with rich, layered flavors, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners and gatherings.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients? 

• Keto Replace potatoes with low-carb alternatives like cauliflower or turnips. Use full-fat dairy products and avoid adding high-carb ingredients like peas or corn.
• Paleo Omit grains and legumes. Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes. Ensure all ingredients are free from processed sugars and additives.
• Vegan Replace ground beef with plant-based protein sources like lentils, beans, or crumbled tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and add extra vegetables for a nutrient boost.
• Gluten-Free Ensure all ingredients, including spices and broth, are certified gluten-free. Use gluten-free pasta or grains if adding.
• Low-Carb Reduce or omit high-carb ingredients like potatoes, carrots, and peas. Replace with non-starchy vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach.
• Dairy-Free Use dairy-free alternatives for milk and cheese if desired. Coconut milk can add creaminess without dairy.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings 

Variations

• Chicken Variation: Swap ground beef for ground chicken or turkey for a lighter twist.
• Spicy Kick: Introduce diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.

Add-Ons

• Legumes: Incorporate lentils or chickpeas for added protein and texture.
• Greens: Spinach or kale can be stirred in the last few minutes of cooking for a nutrient boost.
• Potatoes: Cubed potatoes or sweet potatoes add heartiness.

Toppings

• Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or parmesan for a melty finish.
• Herbs: Freshly chopped parsley or cilantro enhances flavor and color.
• Crunch: Add croutons or crispy bacon bits for contrast.
• Creaminess: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt introduces a tangy richness.

Can I Make Hamburger Vegetable Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot? 

Slow Cooker

• When using a crock pot to make this soup, get a coup bot and heat the olive oil, then add in the ground beef and cook it over medium-high heat to brown it for around 10 minutes, or until the beef is no longer pink.
• After 10 minutes, add garlic, carrots, onions, and celery. Now, cook these ingredients for an additional 5 minutes.
• Now, you want to add your sautéed vegetables and meat into your crock pot.
• Add the tomatoes, broth, frozen vegetables, and spices to your crock pot, then cook on a high setting for 4–6 hours or on a low setting for 6–8 hours.
• Around 20 minutes before you are ready to sit down for dinner, cook up your pasta as per manufacturer directions, then drain and add to the crock pot.
• Now, remove your bay leaves and enjoy your soup!

Instant Pot

• Start by setting your instant pot to sauté for 15 minutes, add olive oil and ground beef, brown it for 10 minutes or until it is no longer pink.
• Once these 10 minutes have passed, and your beef is browned, put in your carrots, onions, garlic, and celery. Then, sauté for another 5 minutes.
• Add tomatoes, broth, and frozen vegetables to your instant pot now.
• Next, you want to cover and set to seal, then set the manual pressure to 5 minutes. Be aware it will take your instant pot around 20 minutes to come to pressure. When the soup has finished cooking, perform a quick release of pressure.
• 20 minutes before you are ready to have your dinner, cook your pasta up per the manufacturer’s directions, then drain and add to your instant pot.
• Remove the bay leaves and enjoy your soup!

Can I Use Store Bought Broth, Or Should I Make My Own? 

Both store-bought and homemade broths are viable options for Hamburger Vegetable Soup, each with benefits.

Store-Bought Broth

• Convenience: It’s quick and ready to use.
• Consistency: The flavor and salt content are uniform across batches.
• Variety: Many options are available, including low-sodium, organic, or bone broths.
• Caveats: Some brands may contain preservatives, additives, or high sodium levels. Always check labels.

Homemade Broth

• Flavor: It often has a richer, deeper flavor tailored to your preference.
• Control: You dictate the ingredients, ensuring no additives or excess sodium.
• Nutrition: Bone broths especially can be rich in collagen and nutrients.
• Effort: It requires more time and planning.

How To Serve ? 

Serving Hamburger Vegetable Soup at its best involves a few key steps to ensure that the flavors are rich and the presentation is appealing:

• Cook to Perfection: Ensure the soup is simmered until the vegetables are tender and the meat is thoroughly cooked.
• Season Well: Adjust salt, pepper, and herbs according to taste before serving to enhance flavors.
• Serve Hot: Ladle the soup into bowls while it’s hot to enjoy its full aroma and warmth.
• Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, grated cheese, or a dollop of sour cream on top for added flavor and presentation.
• Accompaniments: Offer crusty bread, crackers, or a side salad for dipping and additional texture.
• Storage Tip: If made ahead, reheat gently and add a bit of water if the soup has thickened too much in the fridge.
• Portion Control: Serve in pre-heated bowls to keep the soup warm longer, ensuring a comforting eating experience.
• Last Touch: Offer freshly ground black pepper and grated Parmesan cheese on the side for guests to customize their bowl.
• Hydration: Pair with a light, refreshing beverage such as herbal tea or sparkling water to cleanse the palate.
• Dessert: End the meal with a simple, light dessert like fruit salad or a biscuit for a complete dining experience.

Perfect Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: Warm baguette or whole grain bread slices to sop up the savory broth.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing, crispy on the outside with gooey melted cheese inside.
• Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with a vinaigrette dressing adds a refreshing contrast.
• Roasted Veggies: Enhance the soup’s hearty nature with roasted root vegetables or Brussels sprouts.
• Cornbread: A slightly sweet and crumbly companion that pairs wonderfully with the savory soup.
• Quinoa Salad: This salad is wholesome, filling for added protein and a different texture.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Adds an aromatic, buttery touch, perfect for dipping.

Storage & Make Ahead

• Storage: After cooling, pour the soup into airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in sealed containers for up to 3 months. Label with the date. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Make Ahead: Cook the soup without pasta or rice (if used) a day or two in advance. Flavors intensify when stored in the refrigerator.
• Reheating: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add water or broth if the soup has thickened.
• Adding Ingredients: If adding pasta or rice, cook separately and add to the soup when reheating to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Tips

• Brown the Meat Well: Sauté the ground beef until it’s fully browned to enhance the soup’s flavor.
• Drain Fat: Remove excess fat from the beef after browning to keep the soup less greasy.
• Fresh Vegetables: Use a variety of fresh vegetables for better flavor and nutrition.
• Season Properly: Add herbs and spices according to taste, adjusting as the soup simmers.
• Simmer Slowly: Let the soup simmer gently to develop flavors and tenderize the vegetables.
• Adjust Thickness: If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water until desired consistency is reached.
• Serve with Garnish: Enhance the soup with fresh parsley or grated cheese before serving.

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