Enjoying Comfort: Crockpot Hamburger Soup
When you’re craving something hearty and wholesome, nothing beats a warm bowl of Crockpot Hamburger Soup. This easy-to-make dish combines rich flavors and nutritious ingredients into a delightful meal perfect for busy days or cozy evenings.
Why Make This Recipe
Crockpot Hamburger Soup is not just delicious; it’s versatile and packed with nutrients. It allows you to throw everything in a slow cooker and let it work its magic while you go about your day. Perfect for families or meal prep, this soup brings everyone together, making it an ideal comfort food. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly option, using ground beef and various vegetables to create a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
How to Make Crockpot Hamburger Soup
Creating this delightful dish is simple and requires minimal effort. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the cooking process that will have your kitchen smelling heavenly in no time.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Transfer the beef to a crockpot.
- Add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, celery, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, beef broth, potatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the crockpot.
- Stir in frozen corn and green beans.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until vegetables are tender.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Pro Tips for Success with Crockpot Hamburger Soup
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Brown the Meat: Taking the extra step to brown the ground beef adds a depth of flavor that elevates the entire soup.
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Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables, like zucchini or spinach, to customize the flavor and texture.
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Broth Choices: If you prefer a lighter soup, you can use chicken or vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a milder flavor.
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Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to tweak the Italian seasoning or add your favorite herbs like basil or oregano for a personal touch.
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Make It Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, toss in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give the soup an extra kick.
Flavor Variations for Crockpot Hamburger Soup
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Southwestern Twist: Add black beans, corn, and taco seasoning for a zesty, Southwestern flavor profile.
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Cheesy Delight: Stir in some shredded cheese right before serving for a creamy consistency that will satisfy any cheese lover.
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Herbaceous Boost: Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill can add a unique flavor dimension that elevates the dish.
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Creamy Version: For a velvety texture, you can mix in a half-cup of heavy cream or evaporated milk toward the end of the cooking time.
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Asian-inspired: Introduce soy sauce, ginger, and bok choy to give your soup an Asian flair.
Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Hamburger Soup
Crockpot Hamburger Soup is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. Here are a few ideas to elevate your dining experience:
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With Crusty Bread: A slice of your favorite crusty bread or a warm baguette is perfect for dipping into the soup.
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Green Salad: Pair the soup with a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the heartiness of the meal.
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Cheese Toasts: Top slices of bread with cheese, toast them, and serve alongside for a delightful crunch.
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Crackers or Chips: A handful of your favorite crackers or tortilla chips can add a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Crockpot Hamburger Soup
This soup is excellent for make-ahead meals or leftovers! Here’s how to store it properly:
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Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool before transferring it to airtight containers. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
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Freezing: To freeze, let the soup cool completely and store it in freezer-safe bags or containers. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or microwave.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|—————-|————————|
| Calories | 300 |
| Protein | 22g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 5g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
FAQ About Crockpot Hamburger Soup
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef in Crockpot Hamburger Soup. It offers a leaner option while still providing that familiar hearty flavor. Just follow the same browning steps, and you’re good to go!
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version of this soup, you can replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives. Additionally, ensure you use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and feel free to load up on your favorite vegetables for a fulfilling meal.
How can I thicken the soup?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, you might add some instant potatoes or a slurry made from cornstarch and water. Stir them in during the last 30 minutes of cooking to achieve the desired thickness.
How do I reheat leftover soup?
The leftover Crockpot Hamburger Soup can be reheated on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, for a quick reheating option.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Crockpot Hamburger Soup is very flexible when adding more vegetables. Consider incorporating peas, bell peppers, or even leafy greens like spinach. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure that all the veggies are cooked to your liking.
Final Thoughts
Crockpot Hamburger Soup is a delightful and fulfilling meal that brings comfort and satisfaction to the dining table. Whether you’re making it for an everyday family dinner or for meal prep, it’s sure to please with its rich flavors and hearty ingredients. So, gather your ingredients, fire up that crockpot, and enjoy a bowl of this delicious soup that’s as easy to make as it is tasty!
Print
Crockpot Hamburger Soup
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A hearty and wholesome Crockpot Hamburger Soup packed with nutritious ingredients, perfect for busy days and cozy evenings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1 cup green beans, chopped
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Transfer the beef to a crockpot.
- Add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, celery, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, beef broth, potatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the crockpot.
- Stir in frozen corn and green beans.
- Cover and cook on low for 360 minutes or high for 240 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
Browning the meat enhances flavor. You can swap vegetables based on preference and use different broth for lighter flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
