ground beef soup
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, savory bowl of ground beef soup on a chilly evening. As a child, I’d watch my mom simmer pots of this exact recipe, filling our house with the most heavenly aroma. The smell alone would bring everyone to the kitchen, eager to taste the rich flavors she’d carefully crafted. To this day, that smell transport me back to those cozy nights spent around the dinner table, sharing laughter and stories. And now, I’m thrilled to share my own version of this beloved recipe with you, featuring tender ground beef, hearty vegetables, and a depth of flavor that’s sure to become a family favorite.
What is ground beef soup?
At its core, ground beef soup is a versatile, comforting dish that’s essentially a cross between a stew and a soup. Think of it as a warm hug in a bowl, packed with tender ground beef, a medley of vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth. This recipe is a lifesaver on busy nights, as it’s incredibly easy to prepare and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re a meat-and-potatoes kind of person or a vegetarian looking for a hearty, satisfying meal, this ground beef soup is sure to become a staple in your household.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
So, what sets this ground beef soup apart from other recipes? For starters, the flavor is incredible – a perfect balance of savory, slightly sweet, and spicy. The ground beef is cooked to perfection, tender and juicy, while the vegetables add a delightful pop of color and texture. But what I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep work, you can have a delicious, comforting meal on the table in under an hour. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a cozy night in, or even a special occasion. Trust me, your family will ask for this all the time!
How do I make ground beef soup?
Quick Overview
This ground beef soup recipe is incredibly easy to make, with just a few simple steps. Simply brown the ground beef, sauté the vegetables, and simmer the broth – it’s that straightforward! The key to success lies in using high-quality ingredients and allowing the flavors to meld together slowly. So, take a deep breath, grab a cup of coffee, and let’s get started!
Ingredients
For the Main Batter:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Filling:
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
For the Glaze:
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain the excess fat and set the beef aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and diced potatoes to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
Step 3: Simmer the Broth
Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
Step 4: Add the Browned Ground Beef
Return the browned ground beef to the pot, stirring to combine.
Step 5: Add the Frozen Peas and Carrots
Stir in the frozen peas and carrots, allowing them to thaw and heat through.
Step 6: Simmer and Season
Simmer the soup for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the soup has thickened slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the soup into bowls, topping each serving with a sprinkle of grated cheddar cheese (if desired). Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream.
What to Serve It With
Ground beef soup is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of accompaniments, depending on your mood and preferences. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
For Breakfast: Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread, scrambled eggs, or crispy bacon for a hearty breakfast.
For Brunch: Pair the soup with a green salad, crusty bread, or a side of roasted vegetables for a satisfying brunch.
As Dessert: Serve the soup as a creamy, comforting dessert, topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg.
For Cozy Snacks: Enjoy the soup as a warm, comforting snack, paired with a side of crusty bread or crackers.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Ground Beef Soup
Here are a few expert tips for perfecting your ground beef soup:
Zucchini Prep: Make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible from the zucchini before adding it to the pot.
Mixing Advice: Avoid overmixing the soup, as this can result in a dense, unappetizing texture.
Swirl Customization: Experiment with different swirl patterns and toppings to add visual interest to your soup.
Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to substitute different vegetables or spices to suit your taste preferences.
Baking Tips: For a crispy, golden-brown crust on the soup, try baking it in the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Ground beef soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Here are a few tips for storing and reheating the soup:
Room Temperature: Store the soup in a covered container at room temperature for up to 1 day.
Refrigerator Storage: Transfer the soup to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Freezer Instructions: Transfer the soup to a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 2 months. Thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator or reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts & Conclusion
And there you have it – a hearty, comforting ground beef soup recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its rich, savory flavors and tender texture, this dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion. So go ahead, give it a try, and let me know what you think! Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your own variations and tips in the comments below.
Easy Ground Beef Soup Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lb lean ground beef
- 1 sweet onion diced
- 28 oz can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup water
- 30 oz cans consomme 10oz/284ml cans
- 10 oz can tomato soup 10oz/284ml
- 3 celery stalks diced
- 4 carrots peeled and diced
- 0.5 tsp dried thyme
- 2 cups small pasta shells uncooked
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large pot, cook ground beef and onions on medium high heat.
- Once beef is browned, add in the rest of the ingredients and stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium low. Simmer for 40 minutes. Serve hot.
