If you’re looking for a comforting dish that is both hearty and satisfying, look no further than ground beef soup. This simple yet delicious recipe combines savory ground beef with fresh vegetables and spices, creating a bowl of goodness that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this soup is sure to please. Enjoy the robust flavors and the warmth it brings on a chilly day!
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp pepper
– 1 cup green beans, chopped
– 1 cup corn, frozen or fresh
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 250 calories, 15g protein, 8g carbs, and 15g fat. This is based on a serving size of 1 cup for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
2. Drain excess fat from the pot.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until transparent.
4. Stir in chopped carrots and celery, cooking for 5 minutes.
5. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice.
6. Add the beef broth, oregano, salt, and pepper.
7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
8. Add the chopped green beans and corn, cooking for another 10-15 minutes.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Additionally, feel free to add any vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to enhance the flavor and nutrition of the soup.
Serving and Pairings
Ground beef soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad. For a heartier meal, serve it with a grilled cheese sandwich or over a bed of rice.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t skip browning the meat; it adds flavor.
- Be cautious with salt; adjust to taste.
- Overcooking vegetables can make them mushy.
- Use fresh herbs for better flavor.
- Ensure the broth is flavorful; homemade is best.
Helpful Tips
- Prep all ingredients before starting for efficiency.
- For a thicker soup, add a cornstarch slurry.
- Let the soup sit for flavors to meld before serving.
- Garnish with cheese or sour cream for extra richness.
FAQs
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, ground beef soup can be made ahead of time. In fact, it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.
What can I use instead of beef broth?
You can use chicken broth or vegetable broth as a substitute for beef broth. Each will bring a slightly different flavor to the soup but will work well.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this ground beef soup is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth and check any canned ingredients for hidden gluten.
Can I add beans to the soup?
Absolutely! Adding beans can boost protein and fiber content. Canned beans, such as kidney or black beans, work well. Rinse them before adding to the soup.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add heat, include chopped jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. Adjust according to your spice preference.
Conclusion
Ground beef soup is a versatile and comforting dish that is perfect for any day of the week. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it will quickly become a family favorite. Don’t hesitate to customize it to your taste and enjoy a warm bowl of goodness!
Ground Beef Soup
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 medium carrots chopped
- 2 stalks celery chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14 oz
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 cup green beans chopped
- 1 cup corn frozen or fresh
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Drain excess fat from the pot.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until transparent.
- Stir in chopped carrots and celery, cooking for 5 minutes.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice.
- Add the beef broth, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Add the chopped green beans and corn, cooking for another 10-15 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutrition
