Hamburger Helper Soup
Hearty and comforting hamburger helper soup combines ground beef, vegetables, and noodles in a flavorful broth, perfect for quick family meals or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground beef and chopped onion in a large pot until beef is cooked through; drain excess fat.
- Stir in the Hamburger Helper sauce mix, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and canned tomatoes with liquid; break up the tomatoes with a spoon.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add noodles and mixed vegetables to the pot, cover, and cook for an additional 10 minutes until noodles are tender.
- Remove bay leaf before serving. Enjoy the soup hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or Italian seasoning while browning the beef. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you want extra veggies, throw in some chopped bell peppers or spinach. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. This dish is reminiscent of Mom's Old-Fashioned Goulash, making it a comforting choice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Economical Meat And Vegetable Casserole for a comforting dinner spread. Garnish with fresh parsley or grated cheese for added flavor. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a covered bowl until heated through. If the soup thickens too much, add a little water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hamburger Helper Soup contains roughly 358 calories, with 8g protein, 74g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (186% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (82% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (80% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1359mg per serving (59% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it on the stove or microwave when you're ready to serve. However, it's best to add the noodles just before serving to keep them from becoming too soft.
What can I use instead of Hamburger Helper?
If you don't have Hamburger Helper, you can create a similar flavor by using beef broth, a mix of spices such as paprika and oregano, and adding uncooked pasta with a little extra liquid. This allows for greater control over ingredients and flavor.
Can I freeze Hamburger Helper Soup?
Yes, this soup can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).