Prepare to warm your soul with the comforting embrace of Hamburger Noodle Soup, a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the richness of ground beef with the heartiness of noodles and savory broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a comforting meal any time of year, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into the savory world of Hamburger Noodle Soup and learn how to create this delightful dish that’s both easy to make and full of flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups beef broth
- 2 cups noodles of choice (i.e., egg noodles)
- 1 cup of diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: diced carrots or celery for added veggies
Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
- In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
2. Saute the Aromatics:
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the browned beef. Cook until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the Broth and Seasonings:
- Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer the Soup:
- Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Cook the Noodles:
- While the soup is simmering, cook the noodles according to the package instructions in a separate pot. Drain and set aside.
6. Combine the Soup and Noodles:
- Once the soup has simmered and the flavors have developed, add the cooked noodles to the pot. Stir to combine and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the Hamburger Noodle Soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to customize the soup by adding diced carrots, celery, or other vegetables of your choice for added flavor and nutrition.
- Cheese Topping: For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the hot soup just before serving.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for a spicy kick.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a creamy texture and richer flavor.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef? A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the ground beef in this recipe if you prefer a lighter option.
Q: Can I freeze this soup? A: Yes, this Hamburger Noodle Soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use fresh oregano and basil if you have them on hand. Just remember to adjust the quantities, as fresh herbs tend to have a stronger flavor than dried.
Q: How can I make this soup keto-friendly? A: To make a keto-friendly version of this soup, simply omit the noodles and add extra vegetables such as cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles instead. Ensure that the beef broth you use is low in carbohydrates or make your own keto-friendly broth.
Keto-Friendly Version:
For a keto-friendly version of Hamburger Noodle Soup, omit the noodles and replace them with low-carb alternatives such as spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles. Use a low-carb beef broth or make your own broth using keto-friendly ingredients. Adjust the seasoning as needed to suit your taste preferences.
Low-Carb Variation:
To make a low-carb variation, omit the noodles entirely or use a small amount of low-carb pasta such as shirataki noodles. Increase the amount of vegetables in the soup, such as diced carrots, celery, and bell peppers. Use a low-sodium beef broth and season the soup with herbs and spices for flavor.
In conclusion, Hamburger Noodle Soup is a classic comfort food that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal on a cold day or looking for a quick and satisfying dinner option, this soup is sure to hit the spot. With its simple ingredients and customizable variations, it’s a versatile recipe that you can make your own. So, gather your ingredients and warm up with a bowl of homemade Hamburger Noodle Soup today!
