Ground beef soup is a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out. With tender beef, fresh vegetables, and a savory broth, this soup brings together flavors that will delight your taste buds. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, and is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 potatoes, cubed
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
This soup provides a well-balanced meal, with each serving containing approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 15g fat, based on a 1.5-cup serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
Here you need to write ONLY LIST (at least 10 items in the list) STEP-by-step detailed preparation “ground beef soup”, the size of this block is strictly from 1200 to 1500 characters.
- In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Season with salt, pepper, and thyme, mixing well.
- Add the diced carrots, celery, and bell pepper and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Stir in the cubed potatoes and cook for a minute.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the can of diced tomatoes and reduce heat to a simmer.
- Cover and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary, then serve hot.
- Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
If you prefer, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Additionally, feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini or green beans, to customize the taste and nutritional value to your liking.
Serving and Pairings
This hearty ground beef soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. For added flavor, serve with a sprinkle of grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream on top.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just be sure to cool it completely before freezing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the vegetables; they should be tender but not mushy.
- Ensure the beef is well-browned for added flavor.
- Season gradually; it’s easier to add salt than to fix over-salting.
- Don’t skip the garlic; it enhances the soup’s depth of flavor.
- Use good-quality broth for the best results.
- Don’t rush the simmering process; it allows flavors to meld.
- Adjust the consistency by adding more broth if it’s too thick.
Helpful Tips
- For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes.
- Chop vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
- Make it a day ahead; flavors improve overnight.
- Consider adding herbs like parsley or cilantro at the end for freshness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen ground beef?
Yes, you can use frozen ground beef; just ensure it is fully thawed before cooking to ensure even browning.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
You can replace the ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Can I add pasta to this soup?
Absolutely, adding small pasta shapes can make the soup heartier. Just cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving.
How long does this soup last in the fridge?
This soup will last for about 3 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the beef and onions first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
What herbs pair well with ground beef soup?
Thyme, bay leaves, and parsley are great choices. You can add dried herbs during cooking or fresh herbs just before serving.
Conclusion
Ground beef soup is a versatile and comforting dish that is easy to prepare and customize. With its rich flavors and heartiness, it is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this soup on chilly days or whenever you crave a warm, satisfying meal!
Ground Beef Soup
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 carrots diced
- 2 celery stalks diced
- 2 potatoes cubed
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Season with salt, pepper, and thyme, mixing well.
- Add the diced carrots, celery, and bell pepper and cook for another 5 minutes.
- Stir in the cubed potatoes and cook for a minute.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the can of diced tomatoes and reduce heat to a simmer.
- Cover and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Adjust seasoning if necessary, then serve hot.
Nutrition
