Ground Beef Soup
Beef Recipes

Ground Beef Soup Recipe

Looking for a warm, satisfying meal that’s quick to make? Ground beef soup is perfect for busy weeknights and cold evenings. This easy recipe makes a nutritious, hearty meal with delicious ingredients that everyone will love.

This soup is great for a comforting dinner or a filling lunch. It’s full of flavor and nutrition. With simple ingredients and quick prep, you can make an amazing soup that’s also budget-friendly and tasty.

What is Ground Beef Soup?

Ground beef soup is a hearty dish that warms many dinner tables in America. It mixes lean ground beef with vegetables and seasonings. This makes it a quick and tasty meal for families.

Looking into the best ground beef soup recipes opens up a world of flavors. This soup is great because you can make it your own. You can change it to fit your taste and dietary needs.

A Culinary Comfort Classic

Ground beef soup with vegetables is both healthy and tasty. It has key ingredients that make it special:

  • Lean ground beef
  • Fresh seasonal vegetables
  • Aromatic herbs and spices
  • Rich beef broth

Ground beef soup can be many different things. You can try:

  1. Vegetable-Packed Version: Add carrots, celery, and potatoes
  2. Pasta Lover’s Delight: Mix in small pasta shapes
  3. Spicy Southwest Style: Use chili peppers and cumin
  4. Mediterranean Twist: Add oregano and diced tomatoes

Choosing any variation, ground beef soup is a classic comfort meal. It adds warmth and joy to any mealtime.

Key Ingredients for Ground Beef Soup

Making a tasty ground beef soup begins with picking the right ingredients. The flavor and health of your soup depend on the ingredients you choose. They should work together to make a meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.

Fresh Ground Beef: The Star Ingredient

The heart of any ground beef soup is the quality of the ground beef. Opt for lean ground beef with an 80/20 fat ratio. This keeps your soup flavorful without being too greasy.

  • 1½ pounds lean ground beef
  • 80/20 fat content recommended
  • Fresh, high-quality meat preferred

Essential Vegetables for Depth of Flavor

Vegetables bring nutrition and depth to your creamy ground beef soup. Some top picks include:

  • Carrots: Sweet and nutritious
  • Celery: Provides subtle background flavor
  • Onions: Fundamental for building taste
  • Garlic: Adds aromatic depth

Broths and Seasonings That Make the Difference

The right broth and seasonings can turn a simple soup into a memorable meal. Use low-sodium beef broth as your base. Then, add spices to enhance the flavor.

Broth TypeQuantityPurpose
Low-sodium beef broth5 cupsPrimary liquid base
Worcestershire sauce2 teaspoonsAdds umami flavor
Italian seasoning1 teaspoonHerbal complexity

For a creamy ground beef soup twist, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving.

Ground Beef Soup

Equipment Needed to Make Ground Beef Soup

Making a tasty slow cooker ground beef soup needs the right tools. Whether you’re experienced or new to cooking, the right equipment makes soup making easy and fun.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Soup Making

To make the best ground beef soup, you’ll need a few important tools. They help you prepare and cook your meal well:

  • Large Pot or Dutch Oven: The key for even heat in soup making
  • Sharp Chef’s Knife for chopping veggies accurately
  • Colander for draining and rinsing ingredients
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula for stirring
  • Can Opener for opening canned goods

Choosing the right cookware makes slow cooker ground beef soup better. Here’s a look at different cooking methods:

Cookware TypeProsBest For
Slow CookerHands-off cooking, tenderizes meatBusy home cooks
Dutch OvenGreat heat retention, versatileTraditional stovetop cooking
Large Soup PotQuick cooking, easy monitoringQuick meal preparation

Pro tip: A slow cooker is perfect for ground beef soup if you prefer not to do much. Just brown the meat, add ingredients, and let it simmer all day for a tender and tasty soup.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Ground Beef Soup

To make the perfect ground beef soup, start with 85-90% lean ground beef. This choice balances flavor and nutrition. Begin by heating a large Dutch oven or stock pot over medium-high heat.

Brown the ground beef with finely chopped onions and minced garlic. Break the meat into large chunks as it cooks. Drain any excess grease to keep your soup light and delicious. Then, add chopped vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers. Cook them in the rendered fat or a little olive oil until they’re soft and fragrant.

Stir in tomato paste and more garlic for a deeper flavor. Cook for about 30 seconds to release their aromas. Add diced tomatoes, beef broth, and a splash of red wine for a rich base. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

For a twist, add elbow macaroni, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese, or a dash of cayenne for spice. Serve hot with crusty garlic bread. This soup is great for meal prep and busy weeknights. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days or can be frozen for later.

FAQ

What is ground beef soup?

Ground beef soup is a warm, comforting dish. It’s made with browned ground beef, veggies, and broth. It’s great for busy weeknights or cold days because you can add your favorite ingredients.

How lean should the ground beef be?

For the best taste and texture, choose ground beef with an 80/20 or 85/15 lean-to-fat ratio. This keeps the soup flavorful and moist without being too greasy.

Can I make ground beef soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! A slow cooker is perfect for ground beef soup. Brown the meat first, then add all ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

What vegetables work best in ground beef soup?

Classic choices are carrots, celery, onions, and potatoes. You can also add frozen mixed veggies, green beans, or corn for more flavor and nutrition.

How can I make the soup creamier?

For a creamy soup, add heavy cream, sour cream, or cream cheese near the end. Or, use a blended potato or cornstarch slurry to thicken it.

Can I freeze ground beef soup?

Yes, it freezes well. Store it in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and warm slowly on the stovetop when reheating.

What are some popular variations of ground beef soup?

You can add pasta for a heartier meal. Try different veggies, broths (beef, chicken, or veggie), or make a Mexican version with taco seasoning.

How long does it take to prepare ground beef soup?

It usually takes 30-45 minutes to make. Slow cooker versions can cook all day while you’re busy.

Is ground beef soup nutritious?

Yes, it’s nutritious. It has protein from beef and vitamins and minerals from veggies. Choose lean beef and add colorful veggies for more nutrition.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

You can make a vegetarian version. Use plant-based meat alternatives or add more beans and veggies for protein.