Hamburger Vegetable Soup Slow Cooker Recipe

Hamburger vegetable soup is one of those comforting meals that instantly make you feel at home. There’s something about the rich, hearty broth, the tender pieces of meat, and the burst of fresh vegetables that makes each spoonful feel like a warm hug. But what’s even better is that it’s easy to make-especially when you can throw it all in the slow cooker and let it do its magic while you go about your day. Whether you’re coming back from a busy workday or hosting a casual family dinner, this slow cooker hamburger vegetable soup will satisfy everyone at the table.

The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its simplicity, but in its versatility. You can adjust the flavors and ingredients to your liking, adding whatever vegetables you have on hand or tweaking the seasonings to create your perfect bowl. Plus, it’s an all-in-one meal that’s packed with nutrients, so you won’t need to make a side dish!

Let’s dive into this classic recipe, so you can start making it for your next cozy evening.

Hamburger Vegetable Soup Slow Cooker Recipe

This slow cooker hamburger vegetable soup combines the rich flavor of ground beef with the freshness of vegetables, all simmered together in a savory broth. Thanks to the slow cooker, the flavors have plenty of time to meld together, creating a perfectly balanced and satisfying soup.

Ingredients Needed

• 1 lb ground beef – The star of the show! Ground beef adds a savory depth and richness to the soup.
• 1 onion – Chopped finely. It adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the base.
• 2 cloves garlic – Minced. A little garlic goes a long way to bring out the flavors.
• 3 carrots – Peeled and sliced. Carrots bring a lovely sweetness and color.
• 2 potatoes – Peeled and diced. These make the soup heartier and more filling.
• 1 cup celery – Chopped. It adds a bit of crunch and earthiness.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – These tomatoes create the base of your soup and add a bit of tanginess.
• 1 can (15 oz) mixed vegetables – You can use frozen or canned mixed vegetables. These provide additional texture and flavor.
• 4 cups beef broth – For the rich, meaty base. You can use chicken broth as an alternative if you prefer a lighter taste.
• 1 tsp salt – To season the soup. Adjust to taste.
• ½ tsp black pepper – For a bit of mild heat and balance.
• 1 tsp dried thyme – Adds an herbal, earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the beef.
• 1 tsp dried oregano – A common herb in many vegetable soups for a savory kick.
• 2 bay leaves – These add a subtle, fragrant aroma as the soup cooks.
• Optional garnishes: Fresh parsley or grated cheese to add a finishing touch.

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the ground beef: In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain the excess fat and transfer the meat to the slow cooker.
2. Chop the vegetables: While the meat is cooking, chop the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and potatoes. You want them to be bite-sized, so they cook evenly.
3. Combine in the slow cooker: Once the beef is added to the slow cooker, toss in all of the chopped vegetables, the canned diced tomatoes, and the mixed vegetables. Pour in the beef broth and stir everything together.
4. Add seasonings: Add the salt, pepper, thyme, oregano, and bay leaves to the slow cooker. Stir to evenly distribute the seasonings.
5. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer you cook it, the more the flavors will develop, so low and slow is often the best method if you have the time.
6. Taste and adjust: Once the soup is done, taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary. You may want to add more salt or pepper, or a pinch more thyme for extra flavor.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated cheese, if desired. Serve with a side of warm bread or crackers for the perfect comfort meal.

Ingredient Insights

• Ground beef: Using lean ground beef (around 80/20) is ideal for this soup as it strikes the right balance between flavor and fat content. If you prefer a healthier version, you can opt for ground turkey or chicken, but the flavor might be a bit milder.
• Potatoes: Potatoes are the unsung heroes of this soup. They provide substance, making the soup feel more like a meal than a light broth. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best because they soften and blend nicely into the soup.
• Beef broth: Opt for low-sodium beef broth if you’re watching your salt intake. The broth will infuse the soup with a savory, meaty taste that complements the vegetables.
• Mixed vegetables: While you can use frozen mixed vegetables, using canned ones saves you time and is just as convenient. Look for ones with a mix of peas, carrots, corn, and green beans for a variety of flavors and textures.

Expert Tips

• Browning the meat: Don’t skip the step of browning the ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker. This process enhances the flavor of the beef, making the soup taste richer and more complex.
• Make it spicier: If you love a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the soup. It gives the soup a nice, warming kick without overpowering the other flavors.
• Thickening the soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes against the side of the slow cooker with a spoon to release their starch. Alternatively, a slurry of cornstarch and water can be added towards the end of cooking.
• Freezing: This soup freezes beautifully! If you have leftovers, just let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stovetop.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian: To make a vegetarian version, you can swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute or just use extra beans and lentils for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and load up on a variety of vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach.
• Italian twist: Add a couple of tablespoons of tomato paste and a splash of red wine to the broth to give the soup a richer, more Italian flavor. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese at the end can enhance this variation even further.
• Spicy beef: If you’re craving something spicier, add some diced chili peppers, a dollop of hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to bring a bit of heat to the soup.

Final Words

This hamburger vegetable soup is the epitome of comfort food, and the best part is how easy it is to make! With just a few simple ingredients, you get a flavorful, filling meal that’s perfect for any time of year. The slow cooker makes it a hands-off meal, so you can focus on the things that matter most while it’s cooking away in the background.