This hearty hamburger noodle soup is warm and comforting, perfect for chilly days. With ground beef, noodles, and tasty vegetables, it’s a meal in a bowl!
You might want to make extra, as it vanishes quickly at my house! I love serving it with some bread on the side for dipping—so good! 🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: You can use lean ground beef for less fat or choose ground turkey for a lighter option. I love the flavor of beef, but try mixing it with ground sausage for added richness!
Vegetables: Onions, carrots, and celery are classic, but feel free to toss in any veggies you have on hand, like bell peppers or green beans. They add color and nutrition!
Beef Broth: If you don’t have beef broth, chicken broth works just as well. You can also use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version—just skip the meat!
Egg Noodles: Egg noodles are great, but you can use any pasta you prefer, like rotini or even gluten-free pasta. Just remember to adjust cooking times based on the pasta type!
How Can I Make Sure My Soup is Flavorful?
Building flavor is key! Start by browning the ground beef well. This gives the soup a rich, meaty taste. Remember to cook the onions and garlic until fragrant—this enhances the overall flavor. Adding dried herbs like thyme and oregano makes everything aromatic and tasty.
- Sauté the beef until it has a nice brown color, which adds depth to your soup.
- Let the soup simmer long enough for the veggies to soften and flavors to meld together. This usually takes about 15 minutes.
- Always taste before serving! Adjust with more salt, pepper, or even a splash of vinegar for brightness.
Hearty Hamburger Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 6 cups (1.4 liters) beef broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 oz egg noodles or your favorite pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep time and around 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll spend about 40 minutes to have a steaming pot of hearty hamburger noodle soup ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned, using a spoon to break it up as it cooks. If there’s any extra fat, carefully drain it before moving on with the recipe.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Stir and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is soft and the garlic is fragrant. This step is key for building delicious flavors!
3. Add Vegetables:
Now, it’s time to stir in the sliced carrots and celery. Cook these for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The veggies will start to soften and add great texture to the soup.
4. Combine the Base:
Pour in the beef broth and the can of diced tomatoes along with their juices. Stir in the dried thyme, oregano, and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Simmer to Perfection:
Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the vegetables to become tender and the flavors to meld together beautifully.
6. Cook the Noodles:
Add the egg noodles to the pot and cook according to the package instructions (usually about 6-8 minutes). Stir occasionally and make sure they don’t stick together!
7. Final Touches:
Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if you feel it needs a bit more salt or pepper. Once the noodles are tender, remove the pot from the heat.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Pour your hearty hamburger noodle soup into bowls, and if you like, top it off with some chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy this delicious and comforting meal!
This soup is sure to warm your heart and fill your belly. Perfect for sharing with family and friends!
FAQ for Hearty Hamburger Noodle Soup
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of ground beef for a lighter option. Just be aware that they may cook a bit quicker, so keep an eye on them while browning!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or omit it entirely. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and add more veggies or beans for protein.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of broth or water, as the noodles can absorb liquid as the soup sits.
Can I Freeze Hamburger Noodle Soup?
Yes! This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave before serving.
