
Nothing chases away the chill like a big pot of Hamburger Soup simmering on the stove. This family favorite blends ground beef with a medley of fresh veggies and fragrant herbs, filling the house with savory aromas and drawing everyone to the table. It is the kind of meal that feels homemade just by its scent, and it is wildly adaptable to whatever you have on hand.
I made this soup for the first time when my pantry was almost bare and it instantly reminded me of my grandmother’s kitchen. Since then I find myself craving it especially on busy weeks when only a big bowl of something cozy will do.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Ground beef: choose 80 or 85 percent lean for the best balance of flavor and texture
- Onion: pick a firm onion with a bright papery skin for maximum flavor
- Garlic: fresher cloves give more aroma and depth
- Carrots: look for firm, richly colored carrots for natural sweetness
- Potatoes: Yukon Golds or Russets hold their shape nicely in soup
- Green beans: trim the ends and use fresh if possible for the best texture
- Diced tomatoes: canned tomatoes with juice add tang and body
- Beef broth: opt for a low sodium broth and taste before seasoning
- Worcestershire sauce: one splash and you get savory depth only this sauce can bring
- Dried oregano and basil: ensure your dried herbs are still fragrant for peak flavor
- Salt and pepper: added to taste after simmering draws out all the flavors
- Olive oil: a good extra virgin oil adds richness when sautéing the aromatics
How to Make It
- Prepare the Base:
- Start by heating olive oil in your large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic letting them cook gently for three to four minutes. The onions should look glossy and softly golden not browned. This base gives your entire soup a robust foundation.
- Brown the Beef:
- Scoot the aromatics aside and add ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Stir continuously so it browns evenly and absorbs oniony flavor. After about five to seven minutes the beef should be fully cooked with no pink bits remaining. Drain away any extra fat for a cleaner taste.
- Layer the Veggies:
- Toss in diced carrots, potatoes, and green beans. Stir everything together letting the veggies mingle for about five minutes. This stages them for even cooking and builds more flavor as their juices meet the seasoned beef.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings:
- Pour in your can of diced tomatoes, juice and all. Follow with beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil and season to taste with salt and pepper. Stir well scraping up any tasty bits stuck to the pot.
- Simmer to Perfection:
- Increase the heat to bring your pot to a gentle boil then quickly reduce the heat to low. Clamp on a lid and let it simmer for twenty to twenty five minutes. The soup is ready when all the vegetables are fork tender and the flavors have melded.
- Taste and Serve:
- Take a moment to taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls letting the steam do its job. Enjoy with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Worcestershire sauce is my absolute must have for this soup because of the unique savory punch it brings. My kids always try to guess the secret ingredient and it has become a fun dinner table tradition in our home.
Flavor Boosters
If your broth tastes bland, a splash more Worcestershire or a squeeze of tomato paste perks it up. Topping each bowl with grated cheddar or chopped parsley also adds extra flavor and visual appeal.
Serving Suggestions
A chunk of warm bread or a buttery biscuit makes this soup a complete dinner. Top with cheese or add a handful of small pasta shapes to bulk it up and simmer until just tender.
Creative Twists
No green beans on hand? Swap in peas, corn, or chopped spinach near the end of cooking. Use Italian sausage instead of beef for more richness, or skip the meat and double beans for a vegetarian version.

This adaptable soup is a favorite in our house, from busy weeknights to comforting snow days. Make a double batch for easy freezer meals and let everyone add their favorite toppings.
Common Questions About the Recipe
- → Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter option, though flavor will vary.
- → What vegetables work well as substitutes?
Pumpkin, zucchini, corn, or peas make excellent substitutes or additions depending on preference.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for best quality.
- → Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely. Let it cool and portion into freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
- → Should I drain fat after browning beef?
Yes, drain excess fat for a lighter texture, unless you prefer a richer, more robust broth.
- → Is it possible to add pasta?
For extra heartiness, stir in small pasta shapes like macaroni during the last 10 minutes of simmering.