Ground Beef Soup
Warm up with a bowl of hearty ground beef soup, a comforting dish that combines savory beef with fresh vegetables and rich broth. This easy-to-make recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or meal prep. With its versatile ingredients and simple cooking process, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your regular rotation.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, rinsed
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately:
– Calories: 320
– Protein: 24g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 12g
– Fiber: 6g
This nutritional information is based on a single serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
2. Drain excess fat and set the beef aside.
3. In the same pot, add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add diced carrots and celery, cooking until softened.
6. Return the ground beef to the pot and mix well.
7. Pour in chopped tomatoes and beef broth, stirring to combine.
8. Add kidney beans and oregano, seasoning with salt and pepper.
9. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.
10. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also use any variety of beans or vegetables you have on hand, making this soup adaptable to your preferences or pantry staples.
Serving and Pairings
This ground beef soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, grilled cheese sandwiches, or a fresh side salad. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or as a filling lunch option.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over medium heat until heated through.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t rush browning the beef; it adds flavor.
- Be cautious with salt; broth can be salty.
- Overcooking vegetables can lead to mushiness.
- Always taste before serving to adjust seasoning.
- Let the soup simmer to develop flavors.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
- Adjust spice levels by adding chili powder.
- Incorporate leftover vegetables for added nutrition.
- Make it a day ahead for even better flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen ground beef?
Yes, you can use frozen ground beef. Make sure to thaw it thoroughly before cooking to ensure even browning.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
Substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian version.
What can I add for extra flavor?
You can add Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, or a splash of red wine for added depth and flavor in the soup.
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh vegetables will enhance the flavor and texture, just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
How long does this soup last in the fridge?
This soup can last up to 3 days in the fridge when stored properly in an airtight container.
Conclusion
Ground beef soup is a delicious and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of a homemade soup that nourishes both body and soul.
Ground Beef Soup
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 2 carrots diced
- 2 celery stalks diced
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can 15 oz kidney beans, rinsed
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked.
- Drain excess fat and set the beef aside.
- In the same pot, add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add diced carrots and celery, cooking until softened.
- Return the ground beef to the pot and mix well.
- Pour in chopped tomatoes and beef broth, stirring to combine.
- Add kidney beans and oregano, seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.