Ground Beef Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Ground Beef Soup: the ultimate comfort food, ready in under an hour! Imagine a chilly evening, the wind howling outside, and a warm, hearty bowl of deliciousness waiting for you. This isn’t just any soup; it’s a symphony of savory flavors, a hug in a bowl, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

While the exact origins of ground beef soup are difficult to pinpoint, its essence lies in the resourceful tradition of using readily available ingredients to create nourishing meals. Similar soups have likely been simmering in kitchens across the globe for generations, each variation reflecting local tastes and culinary customs. Think of it as a humble dish elevated by simple, wholesome goodness.

What makes this soup so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures – tender ground beef, soft vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth. It’s incredibly versatile; you can customize it with your favorite vegetables and spices. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze. People love it because it’s quick, easy, and satisfying – the perfect solution for busy weeknights or when you simply crave a comforting and nourishing meal. Get ready to experience the magic of a truly great soup!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 6 cups beef broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, avocado slices, tortilla chips

Browning the Beef and Sautéing Vegetables

1. Prepare the Beef: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to crumble the beef well so you don’t have large clumps.
2. Drain Excess Fat: Once the beef is browned, carefully drain off any excess grease from the pot. Leaving too much grease will make the soup oily. I usually tilt the pot and use a spoon to hold back the beef while pouring the grease into a heat-safe container.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, carrots, and celery to the pot with the browned beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. The onions should become translucent and the peppers should start to soften. Don’t rush this step; allowing the vegetables to soften properly will enhance the overall flavor of the soup.

Simmering the Soup

1. Add Tomatoes and Beans: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes (with their juice), kidney beans, and black beans. Make sure everything is well combined. The tomatoes will add acidity and depth of flavor to the soup, while the beans provide protein and fiber.
2. Pour in Broth and Water: Pour in the beef broth and water. The broth will form the base of the soup, and the water helps to balance the flavors and prevent it from becoming too concentrated.
3. Season the Soup: Add the dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), and bay leaf. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Remember that you can always add more seasoning later, so it’s best to start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.
4. Bring to a Simmer: Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat. Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. I often let it simmer for an hour for the best flavor.
5. Adjust Seasoning: After simmering, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or other spices to achieve your desired flavor. Remember to remove the bay leaf before serving.

Serving and Optional Toppings

1. Serve Hot: Ladle the ground beef soup into bowls and serve hot.
2. Add Toppings (Optional): Offer a variety of toppings for your guests to customize their soup. Some popular options include shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, avocado slices, and tortilla chips. A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess, while shredded cheese adds richness and flavor. Green onions provide a fresh, vibrant element, and avocado slices add healthy fats and a smooth texture. Tortilla chips offer a satisfying crunch.

Tips for the Best Ground Beef Soup

• Choose the Right Ground Beef: I recommend using an 80/20 blend of ground beef for the best flavor. The higher fat content adds richness to the soup. However, you can use leaner ground beef if you prefer, just be sure to drain off any excess grease after browning.
• Don’t Skip the Sautéing: Sautéing the vegetables before adding the other ingredients is crucial for developing the flavor of the soup. It allows the vegetables to soften and release their natural sweetness.
• Simmer for Flavor: Simmering the soup for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld together and create a richer, more complex taste. The longer it simmers, the better it will be.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste the soup frequently during the cooking process and adjust the seasoning as needed. Everyone’s taste preferences are different, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and herbs.
• Make it Ahead: This ground beef soup is even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to develop. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freeze for Later: Ground beef soup freezes well, making it a great option for meal prepping. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Spice it Up: If you like a spicier soup, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also use a spicier variety of sausage in place of some of the ground beef.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as corn, zucchini, or potatoes. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Use Different Beans: You can substitute other types of beans for the kidney and black beans, such as pinto beans, cannellini beans, or great northern beans.
• Serve with Bread: A crusty loaf of bread or some cornbread is the perfect accompaniment to this hearty soup.

Variations on Ground Beef Soup

This recipe is a great starting point, but you can easily customize it to suit your own preferences. Here are a few ideas:

• Mexican-Inspired: Add a packet of taco seasoning, a can of diced green chilies, and top with shredded Monterey Jack cheese and a dollop of guacamole.
• Italian-Inspired: Add a can of Italian-style diced tomatoes, a teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
• Vegetarian: Omit the ground beef and add more beans or vegetables. You can also use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
• Slow Cooker: Brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables as directed. Then, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
• Instant Pot: Brown the ground beef and sauté the vegetables as directed. Then, transfer everything to an Instant Pot and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 10 minutes.

I hope you enjoy this recipe for ground beef soup! It’s a hearty, flavorful, and comforting meal that’s perfect for a cold day. Feel free to experiment with different variations and toppings to create your own signature version.

Conclusion:

This Ground Beef Soup isn’t just another recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a comforting classic reimagined for the modern kitchen. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s packed with flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. From the savory aroma that fills your home as it simmers to the satisfyingly hearty taste, this soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I truly believe this recipe deserves a spot in your regular rotation.

Why is this a must-try? Because it’s more than just a soup; it’s a complete meal in itself. The combination of tender ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and a rich, flavorful broth creates a symphony of tastes and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. It’s also incredibly versatile. Need a quick weeknight dinner? This soup comes together in under an hour. Want to meal prep for the week? This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Looking for a budget-friendly option? Ground beef is an economical protein source, and you can easily adapt the vegetables based on what you have on hand.

But the real magic lies in its adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Add a can of diced tomatoes for extra acidity, or throw in some chopped spinach or kale for a boost of nutrients. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a can of drained and rinsed beans, such as kidney beans or black beans, for added protein and fiber.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Classic Comfort: Serve with a crusty loaf of bread for dipping and sopping up all that delicious broth.
* Cheesy Goodness: Top with shredded cheddar cheese or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
* Herbaceous Delight: Garnish with fresh parsley, cilantro, or chives for a burst of freshness.
* Spicy Fiesta: Add a dollop of guacamole and a sprinkle of tortilla chips for a Tex-Mex twist.
* Creamy Dream: Stir in a swirl of heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer, creamier texture.
* Pasta Power: Add cooked pasta, like ditalini or elbow macaroni, for a heartier, more substantial soup.

I’m confident that once you try this Ground Beef Soup, it will become a family favorite. It’s the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly evening, to nourish you when you’re feeling under the weather, or simply to enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients, put on your apron, and get cooking! I can’t wait to hear about your experience with this recipe. Did you make any variations? What did your family think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. Let’s build a community of soup lovers and inspire each other with our culinary creations. Happy cooking! I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do. Don’t forget to rate and review the recipe once you’ve tried it! Your feedback helps others discover this delicious and easy meal.

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