Instructions:
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the lean ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and cooked through. Break the beef into crumbles with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add diced onions, sliced carrots, chopped celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté the vegetables until they are softened, enhancing the flavor of the soup.
- Combine Tomatoes and Sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, allowing the ingredients to meld and create a rich base for the soup.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the beef broth, and add dried oregano, dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld and infuse into the broth.
- Include Vegetables: Add the frozen corn, green beans, and diced potatoes to the pot. These vegetables not only contribute to the soup’s heartiness but also provide a variety of textures.
- Simmer Until Vegetables are Tender: Allow the soup to simmer over medium-low heat until the vegetables are tender. This will take about 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to develop.
- Cook Pasta Separately: Meanwhile, cook the elbow macaroni or your preferred pasta separately according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Combine Pasta and Soup: Once the vegetables are tender, add the cooked pasta to the soup. Stir well and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the pasta to absorb the flavors.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf.
- Serve: Ladle the hearty hamburger soup into bowls, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve hot. Optionally, you can add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Conclusion:
Hearty hamburger soup is a delightful and satisfying dish that brings together the comforting elements of ground beef, vegetables, and a flavorful broth. This recipe is not only easy to make but also customizable based on your preferences. Enjoy a bowl of this hearty soup on a cold day, and let its warmth and deliciousness fill you up.