Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat.
- Add the lean ground beef and diced onion; cook until the beef turns brown, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to keep the soup from being greasy.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until you smell that delightful fragrance.
- Next, pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and tomato sauce.
- Stir in the diced potatoes and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Finally, stir in your mixed vegetables and simmer for an additional 5–10 minutes until everything is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to your liking before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
When it comes to serving Old Fashioned Hamburger Soup, think comfort. Ladle the stew into bowls and pair it with crusty bread or buttery garlic rolls. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley can brighten up the presentation. For sides, consider a simple green salad or some cheesy biscuits to complete the meal.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To store your delicious soup, cool it down to room temperature, then transfer the leftovers to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to enjoy it at a later date, you can freeze it for up to three months; just remember to leave some space in the container for the soup to expand.
Helpful Cooking Tips
For an extra depth of flavor, try browning the beef with a touch of Worcestershire sauce or adding a bay leaf during cooking. If you’re short on time, but still want lots of flavor, consider using pre-diced frozen vegetables. Also, feel free to adjust the Italian seasoning to your taste—experimenting is part of the fun!
Creative Twists
Feeling adventurous? You can mix things up by adding a splash of hot sauce for a kick, incorporating different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or even using sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a slight sweetness. Vegetarian? Swap out the ground beef for lentils or mushrooms to create a hearty meatless version.
FAQ
What’s the prep time for this soup?
The prep time is approximately 10-15 minutes, while the total cook time is around 30-40 minutes.
Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can brown the beef and aromatics in a skillet first, and then transfer them to a slow cooker to simmer. Just let it go on low for about 6-8 hours.
How do I adjust the seasoning for dietary restrictions?
Feel free to omit or adjust the salt and Italian seasoning according to dietary needs. You can also use low-sodium beef broth to keep the sodium content down.
Now you have all the tools to make a comforting bowl of Old Fashioned Hamburger Soup that will delight the entire family. Happy cooking!
