Name: Hearty Hamburger Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef or turkey; 1 yellow onion, chopped; 3 medium carrots, chopped (1 ½ cups); 3 stalks celery, chopped (1 ½ cups); 4 garlic cloves, minced (may substitute 1 tsp garlic powder); 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon dried basil; ½ teaspoon dried parsley; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ¼ teaspoon pepper; 3 cups red or Yukon gold potatoes, chopped into ½” chunks; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 5 ½ cups reduced sodium beef broth; 1 (14.5 oz) can fire roasted diced tomatoes with juices; 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce; 1 tablespoon yellow deli mustard; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 2 teaspoons liquid smoke (optional); 2 teaspoons granulated beef bouillon or 2 crushed cubes; Cheddar cheese; Parsley; Green onions or chives; Sour cream

There's something wonderfully comforting about a bowl full of rich, savory flavors on a chilly day. The Hearty Hamburger Soup Recipe delivers just that—a cozy, satisfying meal packed with fresh veggies and seasoned beef that warms you from the inside out. It's a simple dish that feels like a big, friendly hug in a bowl, perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week.

A close-up view of a rich stew in a white bowl, showing chunky layers of soft yellow potato pieces covered with melted cheese that is light golden with a smooth, slightly glossy texture. The potatoes rest in a thick, dark reddish-brown sauce mixed with small pieces of browned meat and bright orange carrot chunks, with hints of green herbs sprinkled on top. Small bits of celery and tomato also appear in the sauce, creating a hearty and colorful mix. A silver spoon scoops some of the stew, highlighting the steam and glossy shine of the hot, savory dish, all placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Hearty Hamburger Soup Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Hearty Hamburger Soup Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Hearty Hamburger Soup Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I’m genuinely excited to share this Hearty Hamburger Soup Recipe because it's one of those dishes that’s both fuss-free and wildly flavorful. The way it melds the savory ground beef with chunky potatoes and fire-roasted tomatoes is absolutely satisfying—plus, it’s versatile enough to tweak however you like.

Easy to make: You only need one pot and minimal prep, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
Hearty and nourishing: Packed with veggies and protein, this soup fills you up without feeling heavy.
Customizable: Whether you swap in ground turkey or add extra veggies, it adapts beautifully to your pantry and preferences.
Great for leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day and freezes well for easy future meals.

The image shows a close-up of a thick stew with many layers of ingredients in a rich reddish-brown broth. Large chunks of golden yellow potatoes, bright orange carrot pieces, and small green celery bits float among tasty-looking browned ground meat. There are also visible pieces of red tomatoes adding variety to the textured mix. A silver ladle scoops some of the stew, showing a focused mix of the vibrant vegetables and meat with small green herbs sprinkled over it. The stew sits in a pot on a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

This Hearty Hamburger Soup Recipe brings together simple, wholesome ingredients that complement each other perfectly. The blend of ground beef, aromatic veggies, and layered spices creates depth, while potatoes and bell pepper add comforting texture and color. Shopping tip: aim for fresh, firm vegetables and lean ground meat to keep the flavors bright and the soup balanced.

Flat lay of lean ground beef in a rectangular patty shape, a whole yellow onion with papery skin, three medium whole carrots with green tops trimmed, three fresh celery stalks with leaves, four garlic cloves with skins on, small white bowls each containing chili powder, ground cumin, salt, dried basil, dried parsley, dried oregano, smoked paprika, and black pepper, red and Yukon gold potatoes cut into chunky halves, a whole green bell pepper, small white bowls of reduced sodium beef broth, fire roasted diced tomatoes with juices, smooth tomato sauce, yellow deli mustard, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar, a small white bowl with liquid smoke, a small white bowl with granulated beef bouillon, fresh cheddar cheese block, fresh parsley sprigs, green onions with roots intact, and a dollop of sour cream on a simple white ceramic plate, arranged with perfect symmetry and balanced proportions, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Lean ground beef or turkey: Provides that rich, hearty base flavor; lean cuts keep the soup from getting greasy.
Yellow onion: A savory foundation flavor that softens and sweetens as it cooks.
Carrots and celery: Classic “soup veggies” that add freshness and slight sweetness along with a tender bite.
Garlic: Elevates the overall aroma and complexity—can substitute garlic powder in a pinch.
Spices (chili powder, cumin, herbs, smoked paprika): These bring warmth and subtle smokiness, balancing the meatiness beautifully.
Potatoes (red or Yukon gold): Chunky and filling, they soak up broth and seasonings while adding heartiness.
Green bell pepper: Adds a subtle bite and freshness that brightens the soup.
Beef broth: The savory liquid backbone of the soup—reduced sodium helps control saltiness.
Fire roasted diced tomatoes & tomato sauce: Give a slightly smoky, tangy depth without overpowering.
Deli mustard, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar & brown sugar: These layered little add-ins create subtle tang, umami, and balance the acidity.
Liquid smoke (optional): For an extra smoky kick if you’re feeling adventurous.
Beef bouillon or cubes: Boosts the meaty flavor, especially handy if using turkey.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of my favorite things about this Hearty Hamburger Soup Recipe is how easy it is to personalize. I've tweaked it with different proteins, veggie combos, and even swapped potatoes for pasta. Seriously, don’t hesitate to get creative and make it your own!

Ground turkey version: I often switch to turkey for a lighter option, adding extra beef bouillon to keep that classic savory kick. It’s a game changer if you want a healthier twist but don’t want to sacrifice flavor.
Veggie lovers’ edition: Toss in zucchini or green beans with your potatoes for extra color and texture. I like to add spinach right at the end to wilt it gently—a great way to sneak in greens.
Pasta swap: Replace potatoes with small pasta shapes like macaroni or shells, adding them near the end so they stay perfect and not mushy. This is especially great if you want a soup that’s more stick-to-your-ribs comforting.
Spicy kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne powder if you like things a little fiery—I do on cold nights!

Step-by-Step: How I Make Hearty Hamburger Soup Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Veggies

I start by browning the lean ground beef with chopped onions, carrots, and celery in a large Dutch oven. This takes about 10 minutes until everything is softened and your kitchen smells incredible. It’s key to brown everything well because those caramelized bits add depth. Don’t forget to drain any excess grease if you see a lot—lean beef usually keeps it minimal.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Once the meat and veggies are cooked, stir in minced garlic and the spice mix—chili powder, cumin, dried herbs, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Sauté for just about 30 seconds to wake up those flavors without burning the garlic. This quick step is crucial because it layers in a wonderful aroma that carries through.

Step 3: Combine the Remaining Ingredients and Simmer

Next, add your chopped potatoes, green bell pepper, beef broth, canned tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and flavorful boosters like mustard, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, liquid smoke, and beef bouillon. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer uncovered. Let it cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender but still hold their shape.

Step 4: Adjust Consistency and Seasoning

After the potatoes are tender, check your soup’s thickness. You want it chunky and comforting—not too watery. If it’s too thick, add a splash of broth or water. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or spices. Don’t skip this step—it makes all the difference!

Top Tip

Over the years, I've found a few simple tricks that really elevate this soup and make prep easier. They help you nail the balance between hearty and fresh every single time.

Don’t skip browning: Browning the beef and vegetables together builds a rich flavor base that you just can’t replicate by boiling alone.
Season gradually: I add salt and spices in stages, tasting as I go, so the soup never gets too salty or overpowering.
Use fresh veggies: Fresh carrots and celery make a noticeable difference compared to frozen—they keep the texture and sweetness just right.
Customize with confidence: Don’t be afraid to swap veggies or proteins—just adjust cooking times and seasoning for best results.

How to Serve Hearty Hamburger Soup Recipe

Hearty Hamburger Soup - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I can’t recommend skipping the cheddar cheese garnish—it melts perfectly over a hot bowl adding richness and a creamy finish. Sometimes I also sprinkle chopped parsley or sliced green onions for color and a fresh bite. A dollop of sour cream adds a pleasant tang and creamy texture that softens the spices beautifully.

Side Dishes

For sides, crusty bread or warm cornbread pairs wonderfully to soak up every last drop. A simple green salad with a bright vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup. When I want something more filling, garlic toast is my go-to companion.

Creative Ways to Present

Once, I served this Hearty Hamburger Soup Recipe in hollowed-out mini pumpkins for a cozy fall dinner party—such a fun and festive touch! You could also ladle the soup into bread bowls or use soup mugs for individual servings during casual get-togethers. Playing with garnishes like crispy bacon bits or freshly grated Parmesan can also make it feel extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftover soup in airtight containers in the fridge and it stays fresh for up to 5 days. I love having it ready for quick lunches or dinners during busy weeks. Just a quick reheat, and it’s like the flavors have deepened even more overnight.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully. Once cooled, I transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers, squeezing out excess air to prevent freezer burn. It keeps well for up to three months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best texture.

Reheating

I prefer to reheat leftovers gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking and keep the consistency just right. If you’re in a hurry, microwaving individual servings covered for 90 seconds, followed by 30-second bursts while stirring, works great too.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in this Hearty Hamburger Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative. Just be sure to add extra beef bouillon or broth for that rich, meaty flavor since turkey is milder. Taste and adjust your seasoning so the soup stays vibrant.

How long does it take to cook the soup on the stovetop?

It takes about 10 minutes to brown the meat and vegetables, then around 20 minutes simmering to cook the potatoes until tender. So overall, you’re looking at about 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish, making it a great weeknight option.

Can I freeze Hearty Hamburger Soup?

Yes, this soup freezes very well. Just let it cool completely, transfer to airtight freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

What can I serve with this soup?

I like to keep it simple with crusty bread, cornbread, or even garlic toast. A fresh green salad also complements the hearty soup nicely. For a fun twist, serving the soup in bread bowls or mini pumpkins makes for a delightful presentation, especially for special occasions.

Final Thoughts

This Hearty Hamburger Soup Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen and heart. It’s one of those all-in-one meals that comforts and nourishes while feeling effortless to make. I hope you enjoy crafting it as much as I do—each spoonful is like sharing a little homemade warmth. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor something truly delicious and satisfying.