Delicious Hamburger Vegetable Soup With The Best Step-By-Step Guide

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.

History Of Hamburger Vegetable Soup  

Hamburger Vegetable Soup traces its roots to America’s heartland, where resourceful homemakers sought to stretch meals during tough economic times.

They crafted a nutritious, filling dish by blending affordable ground beef with various available vegetables. 

This soup became a staple in many households, symbolizing warmth and unity during the Great Depression. As its popularity grew, regional variations emerged.

Still, its essence—combining the simple joys of a hamburger with the wholesome abundance of a vegetable garden—remained a testament to culinary innovation and resilience.

Interesting Facts About The Hamburger Vegetable Soup  

• Global Variations: While rooted in America, similar versions exist worldwide, like Russia’s “rassolnik” with meat and pickles.
• Depression-Era Dish: Its origins lie in America’s Great Depression, representing culinary ingenuity amidst scarcity.
• Flexible Ingredients: There’s no fixed recipe; many households tweak ingredients based on season or preference.
• Health Boost: Packed with lean protein and veggies, it’s a nutritional powerhouse.
• Culinary Evolution: Modern versions incorporate global ingredients like quinoa or bok choy.
• Comfort Food: Its warmth and heartiness make it a sought-after comfort dish during cold months.
• Pairing Potential: It complements various breads, from cornbread to artisanal sourdough.

What Makes The Hamburger Vegetable Soup Special? 

It may sound weird… hamburger vegetable soup. Hmm? Is it really that good? Yes, it is! There is a lot to love about this soup recipe as well!

It is a healthy dinner, and we love it, but let us tell you why we love it so much!

• It is quick and easy to make! – This unique soup only needs one pot for all the ingredients, and the ingredients list is not too busy either; it is minimal!
• It is loaded with great veggies! – If you would not ordinarily chow down on a tonne of veggies, soup is a great way to up your veggie intake. Beneath the broth, you will find carrots, corn, celery, onions, peas, tomatoes, and green beans!
• It won’t break the bank! – While there are 18 ingredients, most of which are frozen vegetables, spices, or canned goods, you may already have a lot in your fridge, freezer, or pantry, so it is budget-friendly too!

Ingredients List

Ingredient	Quantity
Olive oil	1 tbsp
Butcher Box ground beef	1 lb
Minced garlic	1 tbsp
Minced onions	½ cup (1 medium onion)
Minced celery	½ cup (2 celery ribs)
Coined carrots	1 cup
Beef broth	4 cups
Canned petite diced tomatoes	1 can (14 oz)
Bay leaves	2
Dried parsley	¼ tsp
Dried basil	¼ tsp
Dried oregano	¼ tsp
Salt	¼ tsp (+ more for taste)
Pepper	½ tsp
Thawed frozen corn	1 cup
Thawed frozen peas	1 cup
Thawed frozen green beans	1 cup
Elbow macaroni	1 ½ cups

Ingredient Tips 

• Quality Beef: Opt for grass-fed beef for richer flavor and leaner meat.
• Fresh Veggies: Where possible, choose farm-fresh over store-bought for enhanced taste.
• Olive Oil: Extra virgin oil lends a smoother, decadent finish.
• Homemade Broth: Elevate flavors using homemade beef broth, or choose low-sodium variants.
• Dried Herbs: Store in a cool, dark place to retain potency.
• Tomatoes: Freshly diced tomatoes can be an alternative to canned.
• Seasoning: Adjust salt and pepper progressively, tasting as you go.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients? 

Remember we said that if there was anything in our ingredients list that was not to your taste, you could substitute it?

Well, here we are. We have gone through every ingredient that you can substitute right here.

So, if something is not to your taste or not compliant with your diet, find your replacement item here!

Olive Oil

• If you do not wish to use olive oil, you can always substitute it with butter, avocado oil, or even ghee.

Onions Or Garlic

• Although we love these, not everyone does, so you can omit these ingredients if you are on a low-FODMAP diet!

Vegetables

• If you do not like any of the vegetables on this list, you can add as many others or remove as you please.
• You will need a few vegetables in this soup, at least. However, if you dislike carrots, you can replace or remove them!

Ground Beef

• While we are big fans of 85/15 ground beef, not everyone is. You can always use leaner ground beef if you want to.
• Vegetarians and vegans can also make this soup by substituting it with lentils (Also check out Healthy And Hearty Vegan Lentil Stew) or even a plant-based ground beef substitute!
• However, remember that you may need to adjust the cooking time if you use a substitute.
• We have not tried this with a plant-based substitute, ground chicken, or turkey. However, we are certain it will work with altered cook times!

Broth

• You can use any stock or broth in any soup recipe. You could use a chicken, vegetable, or beef broth, which all work interchangeably.
• However, we tend to use low or no-salt broths for extra healthiness.
• However, you can choose whatever works best for you!

Spices

• You can substitute any of the fresh herbs for dried spices. Make sure you double the amount of fresh herbs if you substitute dry ones!

Tomatoes

• If you do not have any petite diced tomatoes, you could use tomato sauce or canned crushed tomatoes.
• Either way, they will taste amazing. We choose petite diced tomatoes because they are cut smaller, which is ideal in soups.

Vegan Options

• This soup can be made vegan with enough substitutions. However, if you are concerned, consider using our recipe as a guideline for a tasty soup.

Recipe Directions

• In a soup pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef; brown for 10 minutes.
• Add garlic, onions, celery, and carrots; cook for 5 minutes.
• Stir in tomatoes, spices, broth, and frozen veggies. Bring to a boil for 5 minutes.
• Add elbow macaroni; simmer for 10–15 minutes.
• Remove bay leaves. Serve hot!

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.

Scaling The Recipe

• Mathematics: Determine the scaling factor. If you want to double the recipe, multiply each ingredient amount by 2. Halving? Divide by 2.
• Consistency: Ensure the ratio between liquid (broth) and solid components is maintained for consistent texture and flavor.
• Cookware: Upscaling may require larger pots or multiple batches. Downscaling could be achieved in smaller cookware.
• Cooking Time: While the sautéing time remains relatively consistent, simmering might vary. More volume may require longer to boil, and vice versa.
• Taste Test: Always taste and adjust seasoning accordingly. Scaling changes ingredient proportions, which might affect overall taste.
• Storage: Upscaling means more leftovers. Ensure you have ample storage containers. Downscaling is perfect for fewer servings or smaller households.

What Is Used For Garnishing? 

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley, cilantro, or chives introduce a new flavor and a pop of color.
• Cheese: Grated Parmesan, cheddar, or crumbled feta can melt slightly into the soup, adding a layer of richness.
• Cream: A swirl of heavy cream, sour cream, or a dollop of Greek yogurt offers a tangy, creamy contrast.
• Spices: A sprinkle of red chili flakes or freshly cracked black pepper adds warmth and a touch of heat.
• Citrus: A light zest of lemon or lime brightens the flavors.
• Crunch: Croutons, toasted seeds (like pumpkin or sesame), or crispy fried onions lend a contrasting crunch.

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.

Can I Use Different Types Of Meat/Fish/Pasta/Vegetables For The Soup? 

Meat/Fish

• Poultry: Ground turkey or chicken offers a leaner choice.
• Pork: Ground pork introduces a different flavor profile.
• Fish: Firm fish like cod or salmon can be added later in cooking.

Pasta

• Varieties: Penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti broken into smaller pieces work.
• Gluten-free: Use rice noodles or gluten-free pasta brands.

Vegetables

• Greens: Spinach, kale, or Swiss chard add nutrition.
• Starch: Potatoes, sweet potatoes, or butternut squash for heartiness.
• Others: Zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli can be added for variety.

Success Tips – Tips And Tricks For Making The Soup

Tips and Tricks for Making Soup:

Prepping Tips

• Mise en Place: Organize and measure all ingredients before cooking to streamline the process.
• Uniformity: Chop vegetables consistently to ensure even cooking.
• Aromatic Base: Sautéing onions, garlic, and celery (mirepoix) at the beginning boosts flavor.
• Fresh Herbs: Add delicate herbs (like parsley or cilantro) at the end to retain freshness.

Cooking Time Tips

• Simmer, Don’t Boil: A gentle simmer preserves flavors and avoids overcooking.
• Layering: Add ingredients in stages, with longer-cooking items first.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings throughout cooking, especially before serving.
• Resting: Letting soup sit for a few minutes after cooking can deepen flavors.

Nutritional Values

Rich in protein and brimming with essential nutrients, Hamburger Vegetable Soup packs a flavorful punch. Its balanced composition fuels the body while delighting the palate.

What Are The Total Calories In The Soup? 

To accurately determine the total calories in the Hamburger Vegetable Soup, one would need to calculate the caloric content of each ingredient in the specific quantities used and then sum them up. 

As a general estimate, Hamburger Vegetable Soup, when prepared with lean beef and the mentioned ingredients, might range between 200-300 calories per serving. Still, it’s essential to verify with precise measurements.

Dietary Restrictions Of The Hamburger Vegetable Soup 

• Meat: Not suitable for vegetarians, vegans, or those observing certain religious meat restrictions.
• Gluten: The elbow macaroni typically contains gluten, making it unsuitable for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities.
• FODMAPs: Ingredients like garlic and onions might be problematic for individuals following a low-FODMAP diet for IBS.
• Sodium: Depending on the broth used, the soup could be high in sodium, a concern for those with hypertension or heart conditions.
• Allergens: Some might be allergic to ingredients such as tomatoes or beef.
• Carbohydrates: The presence of pasta and certain vegetables could increase carbs, affecting those on strict low-carb or ketogenic diets.

Health Benefits Of The Hamburger Vegetable Soup 

• Protein Source: Ground beef provides essential amino acids, supporting muscle growth and maintenance.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Vegetables like carrots, celery, and tomatoes supply crucial nutrients such as vitamins A, C, and potassium.
• Fiber: Vegetables and elbow macaroni contribute to dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and satiety.
• Bone Health: The soup can be rich in collagen and other compounds beneficial for joint health if made with bone broth.
• Low in Calories: When prepared with lean beef and abundant vegetables, the soup can be relatively low in calories, supporting weight management.
• Hydration: The broth helps with hydration and provides a comforting, warm intake of fluids.
• Antioxidants: Vegetables offer antioxidants, which combat oxidative stress and inflammation.

Nutrition Table 

How Can I Make Hamburger Vegetable Soup Lower In Sodium? 

• Homemade Broth: Opt for a homemade broth without salt or with a controlled amount to regulate sodium levels.
• No-Salt Canned Products: Use no-salt-added versions of canned products like diced tomatoes.
• Limit Added Salt: Reduce or omit the amount of table salt added to the soup. You can always add a dash when serving if needed.
• Herbs and Spices: Enhance flavor with sodium-free herbs and spices like rosemary, thyme, basil, or oregano.
• Fresh Produce: Choose fresh vegetables over canned, as varieties often contain added salt.
• Rinse Ground Beef: Rinsing ground beef can remove excess sodium after browning.

How Can I Make Hamburger Vegetable Soup Lower In Sugar? 

• Watch Tomatoes: Opt for no-sugar-added canned tomatoes, as some brands add sugar for preservation.
• Fresh Veggies: Use fresh vegetables over frozen or canned, sometimes containing added sugars.
• Check Broth: Ensure the beef broth is sugar-free. Some commercial broths contain hidden sugars.
• Skip Sweet Veggies: Limit or replace inherently sweeter vegetables like carrots and corn with other vegetables such as zucchini or green beans.
• Herbs and Spices: Emphasize natural flavors using herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme rather than relying on sugary flavor enhancers.

How To Serve The Hamburger Vegetable Soup At Its Best? 

This is a very filling soup recipe, and it is excellent. However, we have a few recommendations if you pair it with something!

• Fresh bread.
• Crackers.
• Salads: Kale lemon salads or Kale Quinoa salad.
• Vegetables: Such as Crispy potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and green beans almondine.

Perfect Side Dishes To Complement Hamburger Vegetable Soup 

• 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.

How Long Can We Store The Soup? 

Sometimes, our eyes are bigger than our belly, and we make more soup than we originally needed.

When this happens, we consider storing our soups. Most soups with potatoes or dairy in them are not suitable for freezing.

However, this particular soup is excellent for refrigeration and freezing! You can store this soup in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

You can also freeze this soup for up to 3 months. When you go to reheat this soup, you can do this on the stove or in the microwave, although stovetop reheating is always better.

Can I Make The Soup In Advance? 

• Flavor Development: Soups often taste even better the next day as flavors meld and intensify.
• Storage: After cooking, let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate in an airtight container.
• Reheating: Warm it on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water.
• Serving: Give it a quick taste and adjust seasonings if necessary before serving.
• Efficiency: This method allows for stress-free meal prep, especially for gatherings or busy schedules.

What Can We Do With Leftovers? 

• Reheat and Eat: Warm the soup on the stove for a quick meal.
• Pasta Bake: Mix soup with cooked pasta, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly.
• Stuffed Peppers: Fill hollowed bell peppers with soup, top with cheese, and bake.
• Pot Pie Filling: Use leftovers as a base for a pot pie, covering with pie crust or puff pastry.
• Grain Bowls: Add a scoop of cooked quinoa or rice topped with fresh herbs.
• Taco Filling: Thicken the soup and use it as a filling for tacos or burritos.
• Casserole Base: Combine with other veggies, maybe some cheese, and bake.

Special Tools/Equipment Needed

• Soup Pot/Dutch Oven: A large, heavy-bottomed pot ensures even cooking and comfortably holds the soup volume.
• Crock Pot/Slow Cooker: Ideal for slow-cooking the soup, enhancing the melding of flavors over time.
• Instant Pot/Pressure Cooker: Perfect for making the soup in a shorter time frame without compromising taste.
• Wooden Spoon: Helps in stirring, ensuring ingredients don’t stick to the bottom.
• Ladle: Useful for serving the soup without mess.
• Sharp Knife: Essential for chopping vegetables uniformly.
• Cutting Board: Preferably a large one to handle all the chopping.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient portions.
• Can Opener: If using canned ingredients.
• Strainer: Useful if needing to drain or rinse certain ingredients.

Conclusion

This delicious soup is easy to make no matter how you cook it, and it is made with simple ingredients that will make you feel warm, cozy, and help you warm up in the winter.

With so many substitutions available, it is ideal for anyone; try it today! Let us know what you think!

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can I Use Ground Chicken Or Turkey Instead Of Beef For This Soup?

Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey is an excellent alternative to beef, offering a lighter flavor while delivering a hearty texture to the soup.

Is It Essential To Use Elbow Macaroni? Can I Use Another Type Of Pasta?

While elbow macaroni is common, you can substitute it with pasta shapes like shells, rotini, or penne. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.

Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead Of Canned?

Yes, you can. Around 2-3 fresh tomatoes, diced, can be a good substitute for the canned version. Fresh tomatoes may vary in water content, so you should adjust the cooking time slightly.

If I Don’t Have All The Vegetables Listed, Can I Still Make The Soup?

Definitely! The beauty of this soup is its adaptability. You can mix and match based on what you have on hand. Vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach can also be wonderful additions.

Can I Make This Soup Spicy?

Of course! If you prefer a kick, add some red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to amp up the heat.