If you’re craving a comforting bowl that brims with bold, homey flavors, this Hearty Hamburger Soup with Vegetables and Italian Flavors Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with tender ground beef, colorful veggies, luscious tomatoes, and a warm touch of Italian seasoning, it’s the kind of soup that feels like a welcoming hug on a chilly day. The blend of textures and vibrant tastes makes it a satisfying meal for any time, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but impactful, each one playing a crucial role in building the depth and heartiness of this soup. From the ground beef that adds richness, to the mix of vegetables that bring vibrant colors and nutrition, every component combines to create layers of irresistible flavor.
- Lean ground beef (1 pound): Use 90/10 or 95/5 for a lean but juicy base that won’t leave the soup greasy.
- Yellow onion (1, diced): Adds sweetness and a tender bite when cooked down with the beef.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Enhances the savory profile and infuses the soup with classic Italian aroma.
- Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): Concentrates the tomato flavor and deepens the rich color of the broth.
- Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A perfect blend of herbs that bring the signature Italian flair.
- Low-sodium beef broth (4 cups): Serves as a hearty, flavorful base without overpowering the soup.
- Diced tomatoes (14 ounces, canned): Provide bright acidity and a lovely texture contrast.
- Russet potato (1, diced): Adds subtle earthiness and helps thicken the soup naturally as it cooks.
- Frozen mixed vegetables (12 ounces): Convenient, colorful, and packed with nutrients that make each spoonful exciting.
How to Make Hearty Hamburger Soup with Vegetables and Italian Flavors Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat and adding the lean ground beef. Cook it for about 5 minutes, just until most of the pink disappears. This initial browning seals in flavor and creates those delicious caramelized bits that add a deep, meaty undertone to the soup.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion Until Soft
Next, toss in the diced onions and continue cooking for another 5 minutes. As the beef browns fully and the onions soften, the kitchen will start to fill with an inviting aroma. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper here to build the flavor layers at this early stage.
Step 3: Add Garlic, Tomato Paste, and Italian Seasoning
Now it’s time for some glorious Italian flavor: add the minced garlic, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning to the pot. Stir everything together and let it cook for about a minute. This step rounds out the beef’s richness with aromatic herb and tomato notes that will shine throughout the soup.
Step 4: Pour in Broth, Tomatoes, and Potatoes
Pour the beef broth into the pot and use your spoon to scrape up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom. Then add the canned diced tomatoes and diced russet potatoes. Stir to combine all these wonderful ingredients, creating the heart of your soup’s hearty base.
Step 5: Simmer Until Potatoes are Tender
Bring the soup up to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for 5 to 7 minutes. You’re looking for the potatoes to become tender but not mushy—this texture makes each bite satisfyingly hearty without falling apart.
Step 6: Add Frozen Vegetables and Finish Cooking
Finally, add the frozen mixed vegetables and cook for another 5 minutes. This step introduces fresh pops of color and adds vibrant nutrients, making your soup a well-rounded meal. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed to perfectly balance all those flavors.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your soup piping hot, ideally with some crusty bread and a sprinkling of shaved parmesan. It’s the perfect way to enjoy your Hearty Hamburger Soup with Vegetables and Italian Flavors Recipe in all its comforting glory.
How to Serve Hearty Hamburger Soup with Vegetables and Italian Flavors Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish can elevate this soup to restaurant-quality. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty kick, while a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or basil contributes a fresh herbal brightness that contrasts beautifully with the rich broth.
Side Dishes
Pair the soup with crusty artisan bread or warm garlic breadsticks for dipping. A crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette will balance the heartiness of the soup, and a glass of red wine can really complement the Italian seasoning.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in individual bread bowls for an all-in-one edible experience. Or stack it with a grilled cheese sandwich—just picture dunking melted cheese into that delicious broth. You can also top with a dollop of sour cream or a swirl of pesto for extra richness or freshness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Hearty Hamburger Soup with Vegetables and Italian Flavors Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container and you’ll have ready-made comfort food within reach anytime.
Freezing
This soup freezes exceptionally well. After cooling completely, portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. It will last up to 3 months and thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready for a quick meal that tastes just as fresh as the first time.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of broth or water if it has thickened too much. Microwave reheating works well too; just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between to warm evenly.
FAQs
Can I use other types of ground meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork can be swapped in if you prefer or want a leaner option. Just adjust cooking times slightly depending on the meat’s fat content to ensure it remains tender and flavorful.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat alternatives or hearty beans like lentils or chickpeas. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep the flavors balanced and satisfying.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Definitely. Fresh vegetables like carrots, peas, green beans, and corn can be chopped and added in the same step as the frozen veggies. Cooking time might vary slightly depending on their freshness and size.
How spicy is the soup? Can I add heat?
This Hearty Hamburger Soup with Vegetables and Italian Flavors Recipe has a mild to moderate flavor profile. If you love spicy food, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during step 3 for an extra kick.
What if I don’t have Italian seasoning on hand?
No worries! A simple mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary works beautifully as a substitute. Fresh herbs can also be used but add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Hearty Hamburger Soup with Vegetables and Italian Flavors Recipe is such a gem—it’s quick, nourishing, and full of comforting, rich flavors that hit the spot every single time. Whether you’re unwinding after a busy day or feeding a crowd, this soup promises warmth and satisfaction in every bowl. I can’t wait for you to try it and share it with your loved ones!
Print
Hearty Hamburger Soup with Vegetables and Italian Flavors Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (around 4 bowls)
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty and comforting Hamburger Soup combines lean ground beef, fresh vegetables, and Italian seasonings in a flavorful broth. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, it’s easy to prepare and packed with nutritious ingredients like potatoes, mixed vegetables, and tomatoes.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound lean ground beef (90/10 or 95/5)
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 russet potato, diced
- 12 ounces frozen mixed vegetables (1 bag)
Liquids and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 14 ounces diced tomatoes (1 can)
- Pinch of salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the beef: Heat a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 5 minutes, or until only a small amount of pink remains.
- Sauté the onion: Add the diced onion to the beef and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and the onion is soft. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Add aromatics and seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning. Cook for one more minute to develop flavors.
- Add liquids and potatoes: Pour in the low-sodium beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pan to release browned bits. Add the diced tomatoes and potatoes, and stir everything to combine.
- Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and cook for 5-7 minutes until the potatoes are nearly fork tender.
- Add frozen vegetables: Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and cook for another 5 minutes, until all vegetables are tender. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Optionally accompany with crusty bread and shaved Parmesan cheese on top.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier soup option.
- Frozen mixed vegetables are a convenient way to add variety; fresh vegetables can be substituted if preferred.
- For added flavor, you can top the soup with grated Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like parsley.
- This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and freezes nicely for longer storage.
