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There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Burger Soup to chase away the chill, satisfy hunger, and bring everyone around the table. This Burger Soup recipe delivers bold beef flavor, tender vegetables, and cozy tomato‑beef broth—all made in one pot in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re juggling kids’ activities, late‑night study sessions, or a packed workday, this quick Burger Soup checks every box: speedy prep, minimal cleanup, and maximum comfort.
From the moment you brown that ground beef for Burger Soup, your kitchen fills with an irresistible aroma that signals you’re mere minutes from a bowl of liquid comfort. And thanks to pantry‑friendly staples—canned tomatoes, beef broth, frozen corn—this Burger Soup is as practical as it is delicious. Read on for every detail: ingredient breakdowns, pro tips, variations, and storage hacks that make Burger Soup a weeknight hero.
History & Origins of Burger Soup: A Comfort‑Food Classic
You might wonder, “How did Burger Soup come to be?” While no one cookbook claims its invention, Burger Soup likely evolved in mid‑20th‑century America, when home cooks looked to stretch ground beef into family‑friendly meals. By adding broth, canned tomatoes, and vegetables, resourceful cooks transformed humble “deconstructed burgers” into a warming stew—today’s beloved Burger Soup.
- Depression‑Era Roots: Stretching meat was essential during lean times, so adding broth and veggies to browned ground beef created a hearty, nourishing Burger Soup.
- Modern One‑Pot Movement: As one‑pot meals surged in popularity, Burger Soup earned its spot alongside chili, goulash, and stews for its simplicity and soul‑warming appeal.
- Global Adaptations: Variations of Burger Soup now appear worldwide—Italian‑style with pasta shells, Tex‑Mex with beans and avocado, and even vegetarian versions—showing its versatile, comforting nature.
Whether you call it “Hamburger Soup” or “Beef and Vegetable Soup,” the core idea remains the same: transform ground beef into a flavorful, slurp‑worthy Burger Soup.

Simmering Burger Soup in a one‑pot setup
Why You’ll Love Burger Soup: Quick, Cozy, Customizable
- Speedy 30‑Minute Meal
Craving comfort without the wait? This Burger Soup delivers from stove‑on to bowl in half an hour flat. - One‑Pot, Few Dishes
Brown, sauté, simmer—all in one pot. Less cleanup, more time to relax with your family over hearty Burger Soup. - Customizable Ingredients
Love heat? Stir in red pepper flakes. Need veggies? Add spinach or zucchini. Your Burger Soup adapts. - Kid‑Approved Comfort
Mildly seasoned and familiar, even picky eaters often ask for seconds of this easy Burger Soup. - Nutrition in a Bowl
Protein from ground beef, fiber from veggies, lycopene from tomatoes—Burger Soup packs a nutritional punch.
Burger Soup Ingredients: What You’ll Need

Serves 6–8 generous bowls
Ingredient | Purpose & Notes |
---|---|
1 lb (450 g) ground beef | 80/20 lean‑to‑fat for flavor and moisture |
1 large onion, finely diced | Yellow or white |
3 garlic cloves, minced | Or 1½ tsp garlic powder if pressed for time |
2 medium carrots, sliced | Adds sweetness and color |
2 celery stalks, sliced | Earthy crunch |
1 green bell pepper, diced | Optional—bright flavor |
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes | Includes juices for broth depth |
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce | Thickens and enriches your Burger Soup |
4 cups (960 ml) beef broth | Use low‑sodium to control salt |
1 cup (150 g) frozen corn | Or fresh kernels |
1 tsp dried oregano | |
1 tsp dried basil | |
½ tsp smoked paprika | Subtle smokiness |
Salt & freshly ground pepper | Start with ½ tsp each, adjust to taste |
2 tbsp olive oil | For browning beef |
Fresh parsley, chopped | For garnish |
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Burger Soup Equipment & Prep
- Large Dutch Oven or Heavy‑Bottomed Stockpot: Distributes heat evenly for browning and simmering.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board: Quickly chop onions, carrots, celery, and peppers for your Burger Soup.
- Wooden Spoon or Heat‑Proof Spatula: Break apart ground beef and stir vegetables without scratching your pot.
- Measuring Tools: Keep your flavor balanced with precise broth, tomato sauce, and spice measurements.
Prep Tip: Dice vegetables first and set them in individual bowls. Mince garlic last to avoid garlic breath mistakes during the chopping frenzy—everything’s ready when the oil heats for browning meat.
Burger Soup Step‑by‑Step Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef for Burger Soup
- Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in your pot over medium‑high heat.
- Add ground beef, breaking with a spoon into small crumbles.
- Cook ~5 minutes until no pink remains.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Transfer beef to a bowl and drain excess fat (leave ~1 tbsp for flavor).
- Sauté Aromatics & Veggies
- Reduce heat to medium.
- Add diced onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper.
- Stir and cook 4–5 minutes until onions are translucent.
- This build‑up creates the flavorful base of your Burger Soup.
- Season & Build the Broth
- Return browned beef to pot.
- Stir in oregano, basil, smoked paprika, and a pinch more salt/pepper.
- Pour in beef broth, diced tomatoes with juices, and tomato sauce.
- Scrape any browned bits from the pot bottom—flavor gold for Burger Soup.
- Simmer to Perfection
- Bring mixture to a gentle boil.
- Lower heat, cover, and simmer 10 minutes to meld flavors.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add the Final Veggies
- Uncover and stir in frozen corn (or fresh).
- Simmer uncovered for 5 more minutes until soup thickens slightly.
- Taste and adjust salt/pepper for the perfect Burger Soup balance.
- Garnish & Serve
- Ladle hot Burger Soup into bowls.
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley.
- Optionally, offer shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for topping.
Chef’s Note: Resting the soup 5 minutes off‑heat deepens the flavors and slightly cools it for perfect slurping temperature.

A cozy bowl of Burger Soup ready to enjoy
Burger Soup Pro Tips & Tricks
- Drain vs. Don’t Drain: For extra richness, reserve a tablespoon of beef fat when browning meat and sauté aromatics in it.
- Thickening Your Burger Soup: If you prefer a heartier stew‑like consistency, whisk 1 tbsp cornstarch into 2 tbsp cold water, then stir into a simmering pot.
- Flavor Boosters: Splash in Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for umami depth.
- Veggie Variations: Add diced zucchini, chopped spinach, or green beans in the last 5 minutes for color and nutrition.
- Spice It Up: Red pepper flakes, cayenne powder, or diced jalapeño amp up the heat.
- Cheesy Finish: Stir in ½ cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese off‑heat for a creamy twist.
- Batch Cooking: Double the recipe and freeze portions for quick lunches—see the Meal Prep section below.
By mastering these tips, each batch of Burger Soup will taste more delicious and personalized to your preferences.
Delicious Burger Soup Variations
1. Tex‑Mex Burger Soup
Brighten your Burger Soup with black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chiles, cumin, chili powder, and top with avocado, shredded cheese, and tortilla strips. Perfect for taco‑night vibes in soup form!
2. Italian‑Style Burger Soup
Swap tomato sauce for marinara and beef broth for chicken stock. Stir in Italian seasoning, add mini pasta shells, and finish with grated Parmesan and fresh basil for a twist on minestrone using Burger Soup foundations.
3. Cheeseburger Soup
Enhance your Burger Soup with diced potatoes (peeled and cubed), ½ cup heavy cream, and 1 cup shredded cheddar. The result? A rich, velvety “cheeseburger in a bowl” that’s pure comfort.
4. Vegetarian “Burger” Soup
Replace ground beef with plant‑based crumbles or lentils. Use vegetable broth and add extra mushrooms for umami. Even without meat, this “Burger Soup” still packs hearty flavor and texture.
5. Greek‑Inspired Burger Soup
Stir in chopped spinach, lemon juice, oregano, and finish with crumbled feta and olives. This Mediterranean spin keeps the Burger Soup concept but highlights fresh, bright flavors.
Each variation sticks to the concept of Burger Soup—ground‑protein base, savory broth, and vegetables—while exploring global flavors.
Burger Soup Pairings & Serving Suggestions
- Bread: Crusty baguettes, garlic bread, or cheesy biscuits soak up every last drop of Burger Soup broth.
- Side Salad: A crisp green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of Burger Soup.
- Toppings Bar: Set out shredded cheddar, sour cream, chopped scallions, and hot sauce to let guests customize.
- Drink Pairings: A cold lager or malty ale complements the beefy depth of Burger Soup, while lemonade or iced tea suits non‑drinkers.
Serving Tip: Warm your bowls in the oven at 200°F (95°C) for 5 minutes so your Burger Soup stays hotter, longer.

Burger Soup portioned into meal‑prep containers
Burger Soup Meal Prep & Storage
- Make‑Ahead: Cook Burger Soup fully, then cool to room temperature. Refrigerate airtight up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Portion into freezer‑safe containers, leaving 1 inch headspace. Freeze up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Thaw overnight in fridge or reheat frozen in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Meal‑Prep Kits: Store dry ingredients (spices, diced veggies) in a zip‑lock bag; freeze beef‑tomato base separately. When ready, sauté prepped vegetables, add base, simmer, and serve fresh Burger Soup in 15 minutes.
Meal‑prepping Burger Soup ensures you have comforting dinners or lunches on busy days with zero last‑minute effort.
Detailed Nutritional Breakdown of Burger Soup
(Approximate values per 1½‑cup serving)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 340 kcal |
Protein | 22 g |
Total Fat | 18 g |
– Saturated Fat | 6 g |
Carbohydrates | 25 g |
– Dietary Fiber | 5 g |
– Sugars | 6 g |
Sodium | 820 mg |
Cholesterol | 65 mg |
Thanks to lean ground beef, fiber‑rich veggies, and tomato‑based broth, Burger Soup balances macronutrients, making it both satisfying and nourishing.
Health Benefits of Key Ingredients in Burger Soup
- Ground Beef (Protein & Iron): Builds and repairs muscles, supports energy.
- Tomatoes (Lycopene & Vitamin C): Powerful antioxidant linked to heart health.
- Carrots & Celery (Vitamins & Fiber): Promote digestion and eye health.
- Onions & Garlic (Prebiotics & Allicin): Support gut flora and immune function.
- Olive Oil (Healthy Monounsaturated Fat): Heart‑healthy and anti‑inflammatory.
By combining these ingredients in Burger Soup, you enjoy a comforting meal that doubles as a nutrient‑dense powerhouse.
Regional Twists: Burger Soup Around the World
- Greek Island Burger Soup: Add orzo pasta, feta crumbles, fresh dill, and lemon zest—like a deconstructed avgolemono meets Burger Soup.
- German‑Style Burger Soup: Stir in spaetzle or small dumplings, add caraway seeds and sauerkraut for a tangy‑savory combo.
- Indian‑Spiced Burger Soup: Infuse ground beef with garam masala, ginger, and turmeric; garnish with cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
- Asian Fusion Burger Soup: Replace tomato base with miso‑beef broth, add ginger, scallions, bok choy, and a drizzle of sesame oil.
- French‑Inspired Burger Soup: Incorporate red wine deglazed in the pot, add pearl onions, thyme, and finish with grated Gruyère on top.
These regional spins maintain the core “ground protein + broth + veggies” structure of Burger Soup while exploring global spice profiles and accoutrements.
Frequently Asked Questions About Burger Soup
Q1: Can I make Burger Soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes—brown beef and sauté veggies first, then transfer everything to a 4–6 qt slow cooker. Cook on LOW 4–6 hours or HIGH 2–3 hours. Add corn in the last 30 minutes.
Q2: How do I thicken my Burger Soup naturally?
A: Simmer uncovered for extra time, mash a few cooked carrots against the side to release starch, or stir in cooked rice or small pasta.
Q3: Is Burger Soup freezer‑friendly?
A: Absolutely—freeze in airtight portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently on stovetop.
Q4: Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken?
A: Swap 1:1 for lean ground turkey or chicken, but consider adding a touch of butter or olive oil for moisture, as poultry is leaner than beef.
Q5: What sides go best with Burger Soup?
A: Try cornbread muffins, a grilled cheese sandwich, or a simple mixed‑green salad.
Flavor Enhancements & Umami Boosters for Burger Soup
Take your Burger Soup from great to unforgettable by layering in extra depth of flavor and umami. Try these techniques and add‑ons to elevate every spoonful:
- Perfect the Browning
- Use a heavy‑bottomed pot or cast‑iron Dutch oven and heat oil until shimmering.
- Add beef in a single layer and don’t stir for the first 2–3 minutes—this “fond” (browned bits) on the pot bottom becomes a flavor goldmine when you deglaze.
- Deglaze with Acid or Wine
- After browning, splash in ¼ cup dry red wine or balsamic vinegar.
- Scrape up all the fond before continuing—this adds brightness and complexity to the Burger Soup broth.
- Layer in Liquid Seasonings
- Stir in 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce or low‑sodium soy sauce along with the broth for a savory “meaty” kick.
- For an added boost, dissolve 1 tsp anchovy paste into the broth (it won’t taste fishy, but it will enhance umami).
- Use a Parmesan Rind
- If you have a leftover Parmesan rind, drop it into the simmering soup and remove before serving.
- The rind melts down to add a subtle, nutty richness to your Burger Soup.
- Mushroom Power
- Sauté ½ cup finely chopped cremini or shiitake mushrooms with the aromatics.
- Or stir in 1–2 tsp dried mushroom powder (available online) to intensify savory depth without extra bulk.
- Finish with Fresh Acid & Herbs
- Right before serving, squeeze in 1 tsp lemon juice or cider vinegar to brighten flavors.
- Top each bowl of Burger Soup with freshly chopped parsley, cilantro, or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
- Spice Blend Tweaks
- Swap smoked paprika for a pinch of chipotle powder to introduce a warm, smoky heat.
- Add a small cinnamon stick or star anise during simmering for an unexpected warm note—remove before serving.
- Creamy Enrichments
- Swirl in 2 Tbsp heavy cream or half‑and‑half off‑heat for a silkier mouthfeel.
- Alternatively, blend ¼ cup cooked carrots and corn from your soup, then stir back in to naturally thicken and sweeten.
By incorporating one or more of these Flavor Enhancements and Umami Boosters, you’ll transform your simple Burger Soup into a gourmet‑level comfort classic every single time.
Dietary Modifications & Special‑Diet Tips for Burger Soup
Whether you’re accommodating dietary needs or simply looking to lighten up your favorite Burger Soup, here are detailed swap ideas and strategies to keep flavor front and center:
- Gluten‑Free Burger Soup
- Broth: Use a certified gluten‑free beef broth (many brands contain hidden wheat).
- Thickener: Replace cornstarch slurry with arrowroot powder (1:1 ratio) for a naturally gluten‑free thickening option.
- Add‑Ins: Skip any store‑bought seasoning blends unless they’re labeled gluten‑free; instead, measure out pure dried herbs and spices yourself.
- Low‑Sodium Burger Soup
- Control Salt: Start with half the salt called for, then adjust at the end after all ingredients have melded.
- Broth: Choose “no‑salt‑added” or “low‑sodium” beef broth, and dilute it with ½ cup water if needed.
- Umami Boosters: Use a splash of reduced‑sodium Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of nutritional yeast to deepen flavor without salt.
- Dairy‑Free & Whole30‑Friendly Burger Soup
- Omit Dairy: Our base recipe is already dairy‑free—just avoid finishing garnishes like sour cream or cheese.
- Healthy Fats: Swap olive oil for avocado oil, which tolerates higher heat and adds a neutral flavor.
- Veggie Variation: Stir in diced sweet potato or butternut squash for added natural creaminess and fiber.
- Vegetarian “Burger” Soup
- Protein Swap: Replace ground beef with 1 lb plant‑based crumbles, lentils (cooked), or a blend of chopped mushrooms and walnuts for a meaty texture.
- Broth: Use hearty vegetable broth and add 1 tsp soy sauce or tamari for extra depth.
- Optional Boosts: Stir in a tablespoon of miso paste at the end for rich umami that mimics beefy notes.
- Keto‑Friendly Burger Soup
- Veggie Choices: Replace carrots and corn with lower‑carb options like diced zucchini, cauliflower florets, or chopped spinach.
- Tomato Base: Swap tomato sauce for crushed tomatoes with no added sugars, and limit the quantity to keep carbs in check.
- Add‑Ins: Stir in a handful of shredded cheese off‑heat or swirl in heavy cream for extra fat and creaminess.
By tailoring your Burger Soup with these simple modifications, you can ensure everyone at the table—from gluten‑free guests to keto followers—enjoys a bowl of warming comfort without compromise.
Why Burger Soup Belongs in Your Weekly Rotation
In summary, Burger Soup is the ultimate one‑pot comfort food:
- 30-Minute Prep makes it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Minimal Cleanup keeps the kitchen neat.
- Endless Customization means it never gets boring.
- Meal‑Prep Friendly ensures you have wholesome lunches ready.
With its rich beef‑tomato broth, tender veggies, and simple technique, Burger Soup deserves a permanent spot in your dinner lineup. Give this recipe a try, then leave a comment below sharing your favorite Burger Soup variation or topping. And if you loved it, pin this recipe on Pinterest, share with friends, and make Burger Soup your new comfort‑food staple!
Happy cooking, and here’s to many cozy bowls of Burger Soup in your future!

Hearty One‑Pot Comfort Food in Just 30 Minutes
Equipment
- Large Dutch oven or heavy‑bottomed pot
- Chef’s knife & cutting board
- Wooden spoon or heat‑proof spatula
- Measuring Cups & Spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450 g ground beef (80/20 lean‑to‑fat)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves minced (or 1½ tsp garlic powder)
- 2 medium carrots sliced
- 2 stalks celery sliced
- 1 green bell pepper diced (optional)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 can 15 oz / 425 g diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 can 15 oz / 425 g tomato sauce
- 4 cups 960 ml beef broth, low‑sodium
- 1 cup 150 g frozen corn (or fresh kernels)
- Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Brown the beef
- Heat the olive oil in your pot over medium‑high heat. Add the ground beef, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook until no pink remains, breaking it into small crumbles (about 5 minutes). Drain off any excess fat, leaving about 1 tbsp in the pot for flavor.
- Sauté the aromatics & veggies
- Reduce heat to medium. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn translucent and the vegetables begin to soften (4–5 minutes).
Season & deglaze
- Stir in the oregano, basil, smoked paprika, and a pinch more salt & pepper. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and tomato sauce, using your spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Build the broth
- Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Finish the soup
- Remove the lid and stir in the frozen corn. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for 5 more minutes, until the soup thickens slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Garnish & serve
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 340 kcal
- Protein: 22 g
- Total Fat: 18 g (Saturated Fat: 6 g)
- Carbohydrates: 25 g (Fiber: 5 g; Sugars: 6 g)
- Sodium: 820 mg
- Cholesterol: 65 mg
Notes
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