This hearty hamburger noodle soup is perfect for a cozy night in! With ground beef, tender noodles, and colorful veggies, it’s as filling as it is tasty.
I love how simple it is to make; just brown the beef, add the broth, and let it simmer. One bowl feels like a warm hug! 🥣❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the soup! I like to use lean ground beef for less grease. You can also swap it out for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you’re vegetarian, try using lentils or a meat substitute.
Broth: Beef broth gives a rich flavor, but you can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian take. Low-sodium broth helps keep the soup from getting too salty, which I often prefer.
Noodles: Egg noodles are traditional here, but feel free to replace them with any pasta you have on hand. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works too! Just cook them separately if they take longer to avoid overcooking in the soup.
Vegetables: The base of carrots and celery adds a nice crunch. You can switch them out for whatever veggies you like—peas, bell peppers, or even spinach! Just remember softer veggies go in later so they don’t get mushy.
How Do I Make Sure My Noodles Don’t Get Mushy?
Nobody wants overcooked noodles! To keep them just right, there are a couple of tricks:
- Cook noodles separately and add them to the soup when ready to serve. This way, they stay firm.
- If you add them directly to the soup, make sure to time their cooking. Keep a close eye on them and taste for doneness around 7 minutes in.
- Using egg noodles, let them simmer for about 7-10 minutes max; adjust based on the package instructions for the noodles you choose.
Following these tips will have you serving a bowl of soup with perfectly cooked noodles every time!
Hearty Hamburger Noodle Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 3 cups water
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups egg noodles (or any medium noodles)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty soup will take about 35-40 minutes total—10 minutes for prep and around 25-30 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and easy recipe that brings delicious flavors to your table without consuming your whole evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef:
To start, heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. When it’s hot, add the ground beef. Use a spoon to break it up and cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s ready, drain any excess fat if you like.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Next, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Stir them into the beef and sauté everything together for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. It’s starting to smell amazing!
3. Bring in the Liquids & Vegetables:
Now it’s time to pour in the beef broth and water. Add the can of diced tomatoes (juice included), along with the sliced carrots and celery. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine all those delicious flavors!
4. Simmer the Soup:
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 20 minutes so the veggies can soften and the flavors meld together.
5. Cook the Noodles:
After 20 minutes, it’s time for the noodles! Add the egg noodles to the pot and cook for another 7-10 minutes, or until they’re tender but still have a firm bite (al dente). Keep an eye on them, as cooking times can vary slightly based on the type of noodles used.
6. Final Touches:
Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if needed with more salt and pepper. Every bite should be flavorful and comforting!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
ladle the soup into bowls and, if you like, garnish the top with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot and enjoy your cozy bowl of Hearty Hamburger Noodle Soup!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Hearty Hamburger Noodle Soup
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives for a lighter option. Just cook them the same way as the beef until they are no longer pink. The flavor will slightly differ, but they will still make a delicious soup!
What Can I Add to Enhance the Flavor?
If you want to boost the flavor even more, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce when you add the broth. You can also throw in some chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added freshness!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for about 2-3 months. When reheating, you may want to add a splash of broth or water, as noodles can absorb liquid while stored.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Definitely! You can omit the ground beef and replace the beef broth with vegetable broth. For protein, add in some cooked lentils or beans. You can also increase the variety of vegetables for a hearty vegetarian version!
