When the winter chill sets in and I crave something warm and hearty, this Loaded Hamburger Soup quickly comes to mind. The irresistible aroma of simmering beef, earthy vegetables, and fragrant spices fills my kitchen like a warm hug. On evenings when time is short and comfort is essential, this nutrient-packed soup delivers both flavor and satisfaction, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or meal prep sessions.
As I ladle this rich soup into bowls, I’m reminded of evenings spent with family, laughter echoing as we share stories over steaming bowls of goodness. It’s a delightful twist on traditional comfort food, packed with protein from ground beef and turkey, and a colorful medley of vegetables that boost nutrition while tantalizing the taste buds. Plus, it’s easily adaptable for various diets—whether you prefer gluten-free, grain-free, or simply want a low-stress meal that the whole family will love.
Join me in discovering why this dish goes far beyond just a recipe—it’s a cozy moment that fits right into your heart and home.
Why is Loaded Hamburger Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting and Hearty: This soup is a warm embrace in a bowl, perfect for those chilly evenings.
Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with protein and vibrant vegetables, it nourishes both body and soul.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch to save time during busy weeknights. It stores beautifully in the fridge or freezer!
Flavor Explosion: The harmony of spices and savory ingredients creates a depth of flavor you’ll crave.
Adaptable: Easily customize with your favorite veggies or swap proteins to fit your dietary needs. This Hamburger Soup truly adapts to your taste!
Loaded Hamburger Soup Ingredients
• • Get ready to savor every spoonful!
For the Soup Base
- Avocado or Coconut Oil – Adds healthy fats and helps vegetables sauté; substitute with olive oil if preferred.
- Yellow Onion – Provides a base flavor; chop it to ensure even cooking.
- Garlic Cloves – Enhances the overall taste; fresh garlic gives the best flavor.
- 85% Lean Ground Beef – The primary protein source that adds richness; use all turkey for a leaner option.
- 93% Lean Ground Turkey – Reduces calories while boosting protein; can substitute with additional ground beef.
- Beef Broth – Forms the soup base, rich in flavor; opt for low-sodium broth if you’re watching salt intake.
For the Vegetables
- Tomato Paste – Adds depth and umami; use a high-quality brand for the best results.
- Diced Tomatoes (fire roasted preferred) – Contributes acidity and sweetness; fresh tomatoes work wonderfully in peak season.
- Celery Stalks – Adds crunch and fresh flavor; chop into large pieces for texture.
- Carrot Stalks – Provides natural sweetness; peel and cut for even cooking.
- Fresh Green Beans – Offers vibrant color and nutrients; chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Yukon Gold Potatoes – Adds heartiness; cut into quarters, but consider substituting with sweet potatoes or parsnips for a paleo option.
For Seasoning
- Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs that brings it all together; feel free to use your homemade mix if you have one!
- Spices – Sea salt, paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and bay leaves create a symphony of flavors.
Optional Toppings
- Fresh Chopped Parsley – Brightens up the dish and adds a touch of freshness.
- Avocado Slices – Creamy and delicious, enhances flavor and presentation.
Enjoy this Loaded Hamburger Soup that’s not only satisfying but flexible enough to cater to your taste buds!
How to Make Loaded Hamburger Soup
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Heat the Oil: In a large soup pot, warm up avocado or coconut oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
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Sauté the Garlic: Add minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another minute until fragrant, filling your kitchen with a lovely aroma.
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Brown the Meats: Introduce the lean ground beef and ground turkey, browning them together until fully cooked and no longer pink. This step adds richness to your soup.
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Add Base Ingredients: Stir in the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Mix well and bring the mixture to a boil, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
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Incorporate Vegetables & Simmer: Add in the celery, carrots, green beans, and Yukon Gold potatoes. Reduce the heat to low-medium, cover, and let it simmer for 30-45 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have developed.
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Serve & Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish each serving with fresh chopped parsley and avocado slices for an extra touch of flavor and color.
Optional: Pair with grain-free “corn” bread for a complete meal.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Loaded Hamburger Soup?
As you cozy up with your bowl of hearty goodness, consider these delightful accompaniments to round out your meal.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dunking into the rich soup, a warm loaf is a comforting addition that adds texture and heartiness.
- Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens brightens your meal, offering a crisp contrast to the warmth of the soup and balancing the flavors beautifully.
- Cornbread Muffins: Slightly sweet and crumbly, cornbread pairs wonderfully, soaking up the flavorful broth while adding a delightful, nostalgic element to your meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned and roasted, these colorful veggies bring out the natural sweetness and pack an extra nutrition punch alongside the soup.
- Cheesy Garlic Toast: This indulgent side makes every bite more satisfying; the richness of cheese and the kick of garlic harmonize beautifully with the savory soup.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: A refreshing drink that cleanses the palate and complements the vibrant flavors of your Loaded Hamburger Soup perfectly.
These pairings make for a complete experience, transforming dinner into a warm and inviting occasion that your family will cherish!
Make Ahead Options
Making this Loaded Hamburger Soup ahead of time is a fantastic way to save time on busy weeknights! You can chop all your vegetables (onion, celery, carrots, green beans, and potatoes) up to 3 days in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Furthermore, you can cook the meat, mix it with the broth and seasonings, and let it cool before storing it in the fridge for a day or two. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the prepped meat and vegetables in a pot, add the diced tomatoes and tomato paste, and simmer for about 30-45 minutes. This way, you’ll have a hearty meal that’s just as delicious as when made fresh!
Loaded Hamburger Soup Variations
Feel free to put your own twist on this hearty delight and make it truly yours!
- Turkey Swap: Substitute all ground beef for ground turkey for a lighter, equally delicious soup.
- Paleo-Friendly: Replace Yukon Gold potatoes with sweet potatoes or parsnips for a nourishing, grain-free version.
- Veggie Boost: Add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra color, flavor, and nutrition.
- Quinoa Base: Serve over cooked quinoa for a wholesome one-pot meal that adds a nutty flavor and protein kick.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in diced jalapeños for a delightful heat that brightens each spoonful, adding an exciting twist.
- Creamy Touch: Stir in a dash of coconut milk for a creamy, tropical flavor that might surprise your taste buds.
- Herbal Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil or cilantro towards the end of cooking for a boost of freshness and aromatic delight.
- Slow Cooker Option: Make it in a slow cooker by browning the meat first, then combining all ingredients and allowing it to simmer.
With these variations, your Loaded Hamburger Soup will have endless possibilities to explore and love!
How to Store and Freeze Loaded Hamburger Soup
Fridge: Store your Loaded Hamburger Soup in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to preserve flavor and texture.
Freezer: Freeze the soup in portioned airtight containers for up to 1 month. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop or microwave until hot. Stir occasionally for even reheating.
Leftovers: This hearty soup makes for satisfying leftovers; just remember to keep it airtight to maintain its delightful flavors!
Expert Tips for Loaded Hamburger Soup
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Choose Quality Meat: Use good quality lean ground beef and turkey for the best flavor and texture; it makes a significant difference in your Loaded Hamburger Soup.
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Add Fresh Herbs: Consider stirring in fresh herbs like basil or thyme right at the end for a burst of freshness that elevates the flavors.
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Cut Vegetables Uniformly: Chop your vegetables into similar sizes to ensure even cooking; this avoids having some undercooked while others are overdone.
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Perfect Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning during cooking—add more salt, pepper, or spices as desired, but do this gradually to avoid overpowering the soup.
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Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on simmering vegetables; overcooking can lead to mushy veggies. Aim for tenderness while maintaining their bite in this comforting dish.
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Smart Storage: If making a big batch, cool the soup completely before refrigerating or freezing. This ensures the best texture and flavor when reheating later.
Loaded Hamburger Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ground beef for Loaded Hamburger Soup?
Absolutely! When selecting ground beef, look for 85% lean or higher to ensure a rich flavor without excessive grease. This allows for a hearty soup without it becoming too oily. A good quality ground beef makes all the difference, and I often prefer local butchers for the freshest options!
What’s the best way to store leftovers of Loaded Hamburger Soup?
Very! Store your soup in an airtight container in the fridge and it will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to preserve its delightful flavor and texture. If storing individual servings, consider portioning it out for easy access!
Can I freeze Loaded Hamburger Soup?
Absolutely! To freeze, cool the soup completely, then pour it into portioned airtight containers or freezer bags. Label them with the date, and you can keep it in the freezer for up to 1 month. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
What can I do if my soup is too thick?
Very! If you find your Loaded Hamburger Soup is thicker than desired, simply add a splash of beef broth or water while reheating. Stir continuously until you reach the preferred consistency. You can also simmer it longer to reduce the liquid if you prefer it thicker.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of for this recipe?
Absolutely! This Loaded Hamburger Soup is naturally gluten-free, grain-free, and can be made dairy-free depending on your choice of toppings. Just be cautious with store-bought broth—some may contain gluten, so opt for gluten-free brands if needed. Always check labels to accommodate allergies.
How do I know if my vegetables are ripe for this Loaded Hamburger Soup?
Absolutely! For fresh produce, look for vegetables that are vibrant in color without dark spots or blemishes. For instance, choose firm Yukon Gold potatoes with shiny skin, and go for fresh green beans that snap easily when bent. Properly selecting fresh vegetables will enhance both the flavor and nutrition of your soup!
Loaded Hamburger Soup: Hearty Comfort for Busy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large soup pot, warm up avocado or coconut oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Introduce lean ground beef and ground turkey, browning them together until fully cooked.
- Stir in tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Mix well and bring to a boil.
- Add in the celery, carrots, green beans, and Yukon Gold potatoes. Reduce heat to low-medium, cover, and let it simmer for 30-45 minutes.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish each serving with fresh chopped parsley and avocado slices.