Hearty Hamburger Soup
Hearty Hamburger Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish featuring ground beef, tender vegetables, and a rich milk and tomato base. Perfect for family dinners, it offers a satisfying blend of savory flavors and creamy texture, making it an ideal choice on a chilly day or when craving a homestyle meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a pan.
- Brown the hamburger and chopped onions until transparent.
- Stir in sliced carrots, diced potatoes, tomato juice, salt, pepper, seasoned salt, and cover.
- Cook over low heat until vegetables are tender, about 20 to 25 minutes.
- In a separate small bowl, combine flour with 1 cup of milk until smooth.
- Stir this mixture into the soup.
- Bring to a boil and add the remaining milk, stirring often.
- Do not boil after adding the milk.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or herbs like thyme or bay leaves during cooking. Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for hamburger if you're looking for a leaner option. If you prefer a thicker soup, increase the flour or use cornstarch mixed with water as a thickening agent. This hearty soup also pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Hearty Hamburger Soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated cheese on top for extra flavor. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. For a comforting side, consider serving with a dish like Dad's Casserole to round out your dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling after adding milk to maintain a creamy texture. You can also freeze the soup in portions for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat as needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hearty Hamburger Soup contains roughly 842 calories, with 19g protein, 147g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (77% of the Daily Value), iron (62% of the Daily Value), and calcium (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1640mg per serving (71% 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, Hearty Hamburger Soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove. The flavors deepen when allowed to sit, making it an excellent make-ahead meal option.
What can I add to make it spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce when cooking. Adjust the amount to your preferred spice level. You can also serve with a side of hot sauce for those who enjoy a kick.
Can I use other vegetables in the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like green beans, corn, or peas for added nutrition and variety. Just be sure to adjust cooking times based on the vegetables you choose, ensuring they become tender but not mushy.
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).