Old Fashioned Hamburger Soup is a hearty and comforting bowl filled with tender ground beef, chunky vegetables like carrots and potatoes, and a rich tomato-based broth. It’s the kind of soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, simple but packed with familiar flavors that everyone loves.
I’ve always enjoyed making this soup because it’s so easy to throw together, and it fills the house with that wonderful, inviting smell of cooking beef and fresh veggies. I like to let it simmer slowly so all the flavors come together perfectly, and I think that’s what makes it taste just right—nothing fancy, just good, home-cooked comfort.
One of my favorite ways to serve this soup is with a slice of crusty bread or some buttery crackers on the side. It makes for a cozy meal whether it’s lunch or dinner, especially when you want something that’s both filling and satisfying without a lot of fuss. This soup always brings back memories of family dinners and easy weekday meals that just hit the spot.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This is the heart of the soup, giving it rich, meaty flavor. If you want a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken—they’ll still add great texture and protein.
Potatoes and carrots: These veggies add nice body and sweetness. If you don’t have potatoes, try sweet potatoes or turnips for a slightly different taste.
Beef broth: I prefer homemade broth for a deeper flavor, but store-bought works fine. Vegetable or chicken broth can be used if you want a lighter soup.
Worcestershire sauce: It adds a touch of umami and depth. If you’re out, a splash of soy sauce or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar can work as a substitute.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor When Cooking Ground Beef for Soup?
Brown the beef well to build deep flavor. Here’s how:
- Heat the oil in a hot pot before adding beef.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; brown in batches if needed.
- Let the beef sit undisturbed for a minute or two to get a nice crust.
- Break up the beef after it’s browned to avoid steaming.
- Drain excess fat to keep the soup from feeling greasy.
This step adds a rich base to your soup and makes a big difference in taste.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven – perfect for browning beef and simmering the soup all in one pot.
- Wooden spoon – great for stirring without scratching your pot.
- Chef’s knife – sharp and sturdy for chopping vegetables quickly and safely.
- Cutting board – essential for a clean, safe workspace when prepping ingredients.
- Ladle – handy for serving the soup hot without mess.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter taste but still plenty of protein.
- Add chopped green beans or peas toward the end for extra veggies and color.
- Mix in a cup of cooked pasta or rice to make the soup more filling and hearty.
- Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese when serving for a creamy, rich touch.
How to Make Old Fashioned Hamburger Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 3 stalks celery, diced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried rosemary (or 1 sprig fresh)
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
Time Needed
This delicious soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 40 minutes to cook, including simmering the vegetables until tender. It’s a great choice for a cozy lunch or dinner that’s ready in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef
Heat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. If you see a lot of fat, drain it out carefully.
2. Cook the Aromatics
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Stir and cook until the onions are soft and clear, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Vegetables
Stir in the diced carrots, celery, and potatoes. Cook everything together for another 3 to 4 minutes, letting the veggies start to soften.
4. Add Liquids and Seasonings
Pour in the beef broth and the can of diced tomatoes, juice included. Add Worcestershire sauce, rosemary, and paprika. Bring the soup up to a boil.
5. Simmer Until Tender
Turn the heat down to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer gently for 25 to 30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and cooked through.
6. Finish with Corn
Add the corn kernels during the last 5 minutes of cooking to keep their sweet flavor and nice texture.
7. Season and Serve
Check the soup for salt and pepper and adjust as needed. Remove the rosemary sprig if you used fresh. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve it hot, maybe with some crusty bread or crackers on the side for dipping!
Can I Use Frozen Vegetables in This Soup?
Absolutely! Frozen carrots, corn, and celery work well. Just add them at the same stage as fresh veggies and adjust cooking time slightly until they’re tender.
How Do I Store Leftover Hamburger Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave to keep the vegetables intact and flavors fresh.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare it completely, then refrigerate. Reheat over low heat before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Worcestershire Sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, a splash of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar provides a similar umami boost. Add a little at a time and taste as you go.
