Old Fashioned Hamburger Soup is a warm, hearty dish that feels like a big, comforting hug in a bowl. It’s packed with tender ground beef, fresh vegetables like carrots and celery, and plenty of savory broth that makes every spoonful satisfying. The flavors are simple but rich, giving you that classic homemade taste that’s hard to beat.
I love making this soup when I want something easy but filling. It’s one of those recipes where you can throw in whatever veggies you have on hand, and it still turns out great. I usually add a little extra seasoning to make the broth taste even better, and I always end up eating way too much because it’s just so cozy and delicious.
Serving it with crusty bread or buttery crackers on the side makes the meal even nicer. This soup reminds me of chilly evenings and family dinners where everyone gathers around the table to enjoy something simple and satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that feels like it was made just for you, and I think that’s why it’s a favorite in so many homes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This is the heart of the soup, giving it rich flavor and good protein. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken if you want a leaner option.
Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and potatoes add great texture and natural sweetness. If you don’t have potatoes, try adding extra carrots or some diced sweet potatoes instead.
Diced tomatoes: They brighten the soup and add depth. If you don’t like chunks, crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce work well too.
Herbs: Basil, oregano, and rosemary give the soup its comforting aroma. Fresh herbs are wonderful if you have them, but dried ones work just as fine.
Beef broth: This forms the base of the soup. If you don’t have beef broth, chicken broth is a fine substitute. For a vegetarian idea, use vegetable broth and switch out the beef for mushrooms or a bean blend.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from Browning the Ground Beef?
Browning the ground beef well is key for a deep, rich taste. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your oil in a hot pan before adding the beef to prevent sticking.
- Cook the beef without stirring too often at first, so it gets a nice brown crust.
- Break the meat into small pieces as it cooks, then drain off any fat to keep the soup from being greasy.
- This step builds a strong flavor base that makes the whole soup taste better.
Once browned, you add the onions and garlic right into the pot to cook in those flavorful beef juices. This layering helps deepen the aroma and taste.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven – perfect for cooking all ingredients evenly and simmering the soup without spills.
- Wooden spoon – helps you stir the soup gently without damaging your pot’s surface.
- Chef’s knife – for chopping onions, carrots, celery, and potatoes quickly and safely.
- Cutting board – provides a stable, clean space to prep your veggies.
- Ladle – makes serving the hot soup easy and mess-free.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter soup option without losing protein.
- Add cooked barley or rice near the end for extra heartiness and texture.
- Stir in fresh spinach or kale right before serving to boost green veggies and add color.
- Include a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes for a subtle smoky or spicy kick.
How to Make Old Fashioned Hamburger Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 6 cups beef broth
Herbs & Seasonings:
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried rosemary (or a few sprigs fresh rosemary)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste (optional for richer flavor)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare your ingredients, then roughly 40 minutes to cook. The total time is around 50 minutes, from start to finish, including simmering the soup until vegetables are tender and flavors meld beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain off any excess fat to keep the soup clear and not greasy.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and smells delicious.
3. Add the Vegetables:
Stir in the diced carrots, celery, and potatoes. Let them cook for about 5 minutes, stirring now and then so they begin to soften and mix well with the meat and onions.
4. Pour in Broth and Tomatoes:
Add the beef broth, the canned diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato paste if you’re using it, and the dried herbs—basil, oregano, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper. Stir everything well to combine.
5. Simmer the Soup:
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have blended nicely together.
6. Finish with Peas and Serve:
Finally, add the frozen peas and cook for another 5 minutes to warm them through. Taste the soup and add more salt or pepper if needed.
7. Plate and Enjoy:
Scoop the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh rosemary if you like, and serve hot. A side of crusty bread or crackers makes a perfect match for this comforting meal.
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can substitute frozen carrots, celery, and potatoes if fresh aren’t available. Just add them directly to the pot during the simmering step and cook a few minutes longer until tender.
How Long Does Hamburger Soup Keep in the Fridge?
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even warmth.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Add beans, lentils, or mushrooms for protein and texture to keep it hearty.
Can I Freeze Hamburger Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Cool it completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove.
