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Classic Ground Beef Soup

Classic Ground Beef Soup
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Classic Ground Beef Soup is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings. Made with lean ground beef, fresh vegetables, and flavorful herbs, this soup delivers rich, satisfying taste while being easy to prepare. It’s a wholesome, nourishing meal that brings family and friends together around the table.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups beef broth or stock
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (or other starchy vegetable)

Seasonings and Herbs

  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried thyme)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Add-ins and Variations

  • Crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce (for spicy twist)
  • Kale, spinach, or bell peppers (for vegetable boost)
  • Cauliflower or zucchini instead of potatoes (for low-carb option)
  • Shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese (for cheesy finish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Wash, peel, and chop your vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat until no pink remains, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon for a crumbly texture.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add chopped onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic to the beef. Cook until softened and fragrant, stirring regularly to prevent burning.
  3. Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes, then add your seasonings including bay leaves and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let the soup simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes to blend flavors.
  4. Incorporate Potatoes and Cook Through: Add diced potatoes or your chosen starchy vegetable to the soup. Continue simmering until they are tender but not mushy, usually around 15 minutes.
  5. Final Seasoning and Serve: Remove bay leaves, taste the soup, and adjust salt and pepper as desired. Serve hot with your favorite garnishes or side dishes for a complete and fulfilling meal.

Notes

  • Brown the Beef Well: Browning adds flavor complexity through caramelization, so don’t rush this step.
  • Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley makes a noticeable difference in aroma and taste compared to dried alternatives.
  • Don’t Overcook Vegetables: Keep veggies tender-crisp to preserve nutrients and texture.
  • Season Gradually: Add salt little by little throughout cooking to avoid over-seasoning.
  • Let It Rest: Allow the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking so the flavors fully meld together.

Nutrition

Keywords: ground beef soup, hearty soup, comfort food, homemade soup, beef and vegetable soup, easy soup recipe

Find it online: https://emillycooks.com/classic-ground-beef-soup/