Old Fashioned Hamburger Soup is a classic family favorite that brings together simple, hearty ingredients like ground beef, tender vegetables, and a flavorful tomato-based broth. It’s the kind of soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, with familiar tastes that everyone will love. The mixture of beef, carrots, potatoes, and celery creates a comforting texture that fills you up just right.
I always enjoy making this soup because it’s easy to throw together and reminds me of cozy dinners at home growing up. One tip I’ve learned is to let it simmer a bit longer for the flavors to really come together—it makes such a difference! Plus, it’s great for busy nights when you want a simple meal that still tastes homemade and satisfying.
My favorite way to serve Old Fashioned Hamburger Soup is with a side of warm, crusty bread for dipping. It’s perfect for sharing with family or friends, and there’s something so nice about everyone gathering around the table to enjoy a bowl full of this comforting soup. I always find that it brings a little extra warmth and happiness to the day.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This is the star of the soup, giving it rich flavor and protein. I like using 80/20 for a good balance of fat and taste. You can swap with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
Potatoes: These add heartiness and texture. Russet or Yukon Gold work best. For a low-carb version, try adding extra carrots or turnips instead.
Vegetables: Onion, carrots, celery, peas, and corn add color and natural sweetness. Fresh or frozen veggies work well. If you want, add green beans or bell peppers.
Beef broth: It’s the base of the soup and brings a meaty depth. If you don’t have beef broth, chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used, though the flavor will be lighter.
Diced tomatoes: They give a little tang and richness. You can use fresh diced tomatoes in season or canned ones if that’s more convenient.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor and Texture in Hamburger Soup?
Here’s how I make sure the soup comes out rich and balanced:
- Brown the beef well: Cooking the ground beef until nicely browned adds flavor. Don’t rush this step and avoid crowding the pan.
- Sauté the onions and garlic: This softens them and brings out their sweetness, which balances the broth.
- Cook vegetables in stages: Add carrots and celery early so they soften while potatoes cook later for a firmer bite.
- Simmer long enough: Give the soup at least 25-30 minutes to develop flavors and cook the veggies until tender.
- Add frozen veggies last: Peas and corn only need a few minutes to heat through so add them near the end.
- Season carefully: Salt and pepper are key, but optional herbs and Worcestershire sauce can boost flavor without overpowering.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven – perfect for cooking all the ingredients evenly and simmering the soup without spills.
- Wooden spoon – great for stirring the soup gently without scratching your pot.
- Chef’s knife – helps you chop vegetables quickly and safely.
- Cutting board – provides a safe surface for chopping your veggies and herbs.
- Ladle – makes serving the soup easier and less messy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version that still tastes great.
- Add diced green beans or chopped bell peppers for extra crunch and color.
- Stir in a handful of cooked rice or small pasta shapes near the end for a more filling soup.
- Mix in a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese on top when serving for a creamy touch.
Old Fashioned Hamburger Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme (optional)
- 1/2 tsp dried basil (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and roughly 35 to 40 minutes to cook. Most of the time will be spent simmering the soup so the flavors develop and the vegetables become tender.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
Heat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, you can drain it off.
2. Cook Onions and Garlic:
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the beef in the pot. Stir and cook until the onions are translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Carrots and Celery:
Stir in the diced carrots and celery. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.
4. Add Broth, Tomatoes, Potatoes and Seasonings:
Pour in the beef broth and the diced tomatoes with their juice. Add cubed potatoes, salt, pepper, dried thyme, dried basil, and Worcestershire sauce if using. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
5. Simmer the Soup:
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes and vegetables are tender.
6. Add Frozen Peas and Corn:
Stir in the peas and corn. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until heated through.
7. Final Seasoning and Serve:
Taste the soup and add more salt or pepper if needed. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Soup?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the ground beef in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This helps it brown evenly and prevents excess moisture in the soup.
Can I Prepare This Soup in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the ground beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then add everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the vegetables are tender.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to warm evenly.
Can I Add Other Vegetables or Pasta?
Definitely! You can toss in green beans, bell peppers, or small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni or small shells. Just add pasta towards the end and cook until tender.
