Healthy Hamburger Soup Recipe

If you’re in the mood for a warm, hearty, and comforting meal that’s both delicious and nutritious, then look no further than Healthy Hamburger Soup. This dish is the ultimate comfort food-perfect for chilly days or when you’re craving something hearty but without all the extra calories. It combines lean ground beef, an assortment of colorful vegetables, and a savory broth to create a filling yet wholesome meal that will satisfy your hunger without compromising your health goals.

Hamburger soup is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit various tastes, dietary needs, and preferences. Whether you prefer it more on the tomato-based side, or you’re looking to include additional vegetables, this recipe allows you to adapt it in any direction. It’s also an easy-to-make one-pot wonder that doesn’t take much effort but delivers maximum flavor. Let’s dive into how to prepare this fantastic dish from start to finish!

This Healthy Hamburger Soup recipe is all about fresh, wholesome ingredients paired with a deliciously rich broth. It’s simple, filling, and packed with protein and fiber. It also doesn’t shy away from flavor, with a perfect blend of herbs and spices that make each bite burst with savory goodness.

Ingredients Needed

Before jumping into the cooking process, let’s first talk about the ingredients. This soup is built on a foundation of lean ground beef and nutrient-rich vegetables, and these ingredients work harmoniously together to create a satisfying meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 Lb Lean Ground Beef (or Ground Turkey/chicken For A Leaner Version)

Ground beef provides the flavor and texture for this soup, but you can easily swap it for turkey or chicken for a healthier, lower-fat option.
1 Onion, Finely Chopped

Onion adds depth of flavor to the soup base and helps create that savory foundation.
2 Cloves Garlic, Minced

Garlic brings an aromatic, slightly spicy note that elevates the overall flavor of the soup.
3 Medium Carrots, Diced

Carrots add a subtle sweetness and vibrant color, not to mention plenty of vitamins and fiber.
2 Celery Stalks, Diced

Celery contributes a nice crunch and additional flavor to the vegetable medley.
1 Zucchini, Diced

Zucchini is a great way to add moisture and a mild flavor while keeping the soup light and fresh.
1 Can (14.5 Oz) Diced Tomatoes

Tomatoes bring a juicy, tangy element that balances the richness of the beef.
4 Cups Low-sodium Beef Broth (or Vegetable Broth For A Vegetarian Option)

The broth forms the base of the soup and adds that comforting liquid texture.
1 Cup Frozen Peas

Frozen peas are an excellent source of vitamins and fiber, and they add a pop of color to the soup.
2 Teaspoons Dried Italian Seasoning (or Your Favorite Spice Blend)

Italian seasoning adds a classic savory mix of herbs-oregano, basil, thyme-that pairs wonderfully with the beef.
Salt And Pepper, To Taste

These seasonings are crucial for enhancing the flavors and bringing everything together.
Optional: 1 Cup Of Whole Wheat Pasta Or Brown Rice

If you want to make the soup a bit more filling, adding some whole wheat pasta or brown rice is a great option.

Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, it’s time to cook up this delicious soup! The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity. You can get everything done in about 40 minutes. Here’s how:

Brown The Meat

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey/chicken) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Sauté The Vegetables

Once the meat is browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for about 2 minutes, or until the onions are soft and fragrant. Then, add the carrots, celery, and zucchini. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 3-4 minutes.
Add Liquids And Spices

Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine everything. Bring the soup to a simmer over medium-high heat.
Simmer The Soup

Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
Add Peas (and Optional Carbs)

Stir in the frozen peas and, if using, add the whole wheat pasta or brown rice at this point. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the peas are heated through and the pasta or rice is cooked.
Final Seasoning

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Once everything is cooked through and flavorful, it’s ready to serve!

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this soup serves a unique purpose, providing not only flavor but also nutritional value:

Lean ground beef: A great source of protein, iron, and essential vitamins, making this soup filling and satisfying without being too heavy.
Carrots and zucchini: These vegetables are rich in antioxidants and vitamins A and C, which help support immune health and skin integrity.
Celery and peas: Both add fiber to the dish, which promotes digestive health and keeps you feeling fuller longer.
Diced tomatoes: Packed with vitamin C and lycopene, tomatoes provide a powerful punch of antioxidants, which may help reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases.
Low-sodium broth: By opting for low-sodium broth, you reduce the amount of salt in the soup, making it heart-healthier without sacrificing flavor.

Expert Tips

To ensure your Healthy Hamburger Soup turns out perfect, here are some expert tips that can elevate the recipe:

Use extra lean meat: Opt for extra-lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) or even ground turkey/chicken to reduce the fat content and make the soup even lighter.
Customize with your favorite veggies: Don’t hesitate to swap in other veggies you love. Bell peppers, spinach, or kale would be great additions, and you can even sneak in some sweet potatoes for extra nutrients.
Make it a make-ahead meal: This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve after a day or two! You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.
Add a dash of hot sauce: If you like a little heat, try adding a few dashes of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to give the soup a spicy kick.

Recipe Variations

This Hamburger Soup recipe is super versatile, so feel free to get creative. Here are a few variations you can try:

Low-Carb Option: Skip the pasta or rice entirely, or replace them with cauliflower rice for a low-carb version of this soup.
Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based ground meat (like lentils or mushrooms) instead of beef for a vegetarian-friendly soup that’s just as filling.
Spicy Hamburger Soup: Spice things up by adding chili powder, cumin, and even a can of diced green chilies to give the soup a bold Southwestern flavor.
Creamy Hamburger Soup: For a creamier version, you can stir in a bit of milk or cream towards the end of cooking for a rich, velvety texture.

Final Words

There’s something truly special about a bowl of hearty, healthy soup-it’s comforting, satisfying, and nourishing, all in one. This Healthy Hamburger Soup recipe checks all the boxes: it’s easy to make, customizable, and full of wholesome ingredients that will leave you feeling good. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch, this soup is sure to hit the spot.

Healthy Hamburger Soup Recipe