Hearty Hamburger Noodle Soup: A Cozy, Flavor-Packed Meal

SAVE RECIPE

Hearty Hamburger Noodle Soup is a comforting, one-pot dish that combines ground beef, tender egg noodles, and a mix of vegetables in a savory, rich broth. It’s the perfect meal for chilly days, busy weeknights, or whenever you need a bowl of warmth and comfort. This recipe is easy to make, customizable, and sure to satisfy the whole family. Below is a step-by-step guide, along with variations and tips to help you create the perfect soup.


Ingredients

For the Soup:

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 can (14.5 oz/400g) diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups uncooked egg noodles

Optional Add-Ins:

  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • 1 cup chopped green beans

For Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften slightly.

Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings

  1. Pour in the beef broth and water. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), thyme, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
  2. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Noodles

  1. Add the egg noodles to the pot and cook according to the package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes), or until tender.

Step 5: Add Optional Vegetables

  1. If using, stir in frozen peas, corn, or green beans during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Remove and discard the bay leaf.
  2. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
  3. Serve hot and enjoy!

Variations

  • Turkey or Chicken Version: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
  • Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based ground meat and vegetable broth instead of beef.
  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
  • Creamy Twist: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or sour cream at the end for a richer soup.

Cooking Notes

  • For a thicker soup, reduce the amount of water or add a slurry of 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water during the last few minutes of cooking.
  • If the soup thickens too much upon standing, add a splash of broth or water when reheating.
  • Use fresh or frozen vegetables depending on what you have on hand.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with crusty bread, garlic bread, or dinner rolls for dipping.
  • Pair with a side salad or a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete meal.
  • Great for meal prep—store in the fridge or freezer for quick lunches or dinners.

Tips

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
  • To freeze, let the soup cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat before serving.
  • For a quicker version, use pre-chopped vegetables or frozen mixed vegetables.

Prep Time:

  • 10 minutes

Cooking Time:

  • 30 minutes

Total Time:

  • 40 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 6):

  • Calories: 300
  • Protein: 20g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 3g

FAQs

  1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
    Yes! Small pasta like macaroni, shells, or ditalini works well too.
  2. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
    Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the noodles during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
  3. What if I don’t have beef broth?
    You can substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth.
  4. Can I add other vegetables?
    Definitely! Try adding zucchini, potatoes, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

Hearty Hamburger Noodle Soup is a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich broth, tender ground beef, and hearty vegetables, it’s a meal that will warm you up and fill you up. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious recipe!

SAVE RECIPE