If you're craving something warm and comforting, look no further than this Hearty Veggie Hamburger Soup. Perfect for cool evenings, it's a cozy blend of veggies and beef, making it both satisfying and nutritious.
The star of the show is, of course, the ground beef. It adds richness and a satisfying heartiness to the soup. The olive oil helps to cook the beef and vegetables without sticking. Our aromatic base comes from onion, carrots, celery, and garlic, offering a classic mirepoix that deepens the overall flavor. The diced tomatoes add a subtle acidity, balancing the richness of the beef. Beef broth forms the savory liquid base, marrying all the flavors together. For veggies, frozen corn and green beans provide texture and sweetness, while dried thyme and basil infuse the soup with aromatic warmth. Finally, a touch of black pepper and salt to taste ensures everything sings.
This soup shines when served with a side of crusty bread, perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop. A simple, fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup beautifully. If you're feeling indulgent, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top adds a lovely salty kick.
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once it shimmers, toss in the ground beef. Cook it until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as you go. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, scoop the beef out and set it aside on a plate.
In the same pot, you'll find a bit of beef drippings left—perfect for the veggies. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they start to soften and the onion turns translucent.
Return the browned beef to the pot, then stir in the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Give it a good stir to combine everything. Now's the time to add the corn, green beans, thyme, basil, black pepper, and salt. Stir it all together and bring it to a gentle boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the soup cook for about 20 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together into a delicious, savory harmony.