If you’re craving a warm, comforting bowl of soup that’s both hearty and easy to make, this Hamburger Noodle Soup is the perfect choice. It combines juicy ground beef, tender egg noodles, and a flavorful, savory broth, making it an ideal meal for chilly evenings, busy weeknights, or whenever you need a bowl of homemade goodness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour with minimal prep.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
- Comforting & Hearty: A filling soup packed with protein and carbs.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or switch up the protein for variety.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter for added richness)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups beef broth (or chicken broth for a milder flavor)
- 1 cup uncooked egg noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust based on broth sodium content)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 cup frozen peas and carrots or other vegetables for added nutrition
For Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Crusty bread or dinner rolls (for dipping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned and no longer pink, then drain any excess fat.
Sauté the Onions and Garlic
- Reduce the heat to medium and return the pot to the stove.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to burn it.
Build the Broth
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and stir well to combine with the beef mixture.
- Add the beef broth, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
Add the Noodles and Vegetables
- Once the broth is simmering, stir in the uncooked egg noodles.
- Let the noodles cook for 8–10 minutes, or according to package instructions, until tender.
- If using frozen peas and carrots, add them during the last 5 minutes of cooking to keep them vibrant and crisp-tender.
Serve and Enjoy!
- Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each serving has a mix of noodles, beef, and vegetables.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve with crusty bread or buttery rolls for dipping.
Tips for Making the Best Hamburger Noodle Soup
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Add them toward the end of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.
- Customize the Veggies: Swap in your favorites like celery, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrients.
- Make It Spicy: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
- Use Leftover Beef: If you have leftover cooked ground beef, this soup comes together even faster.
- Freeze for Later: Portion out the soup into airtight containers and freeze for future meals. Simply thaw and reheat when needed.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! If you don’t have egg noodles, you can use macaroni, rotini, or even broken spaghetti.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef and onions first, then transfer everything except the noodles to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, adding the noodles in the last 30 minutes.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Simply swap out the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta or rice and ensure your broth is labeled gluten-free.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just keep in mind that the noodles may absorb more broth over time, so you may need to add extra broth when reheating.
Final Thoughts
This Hamburger Noodle Soup is the ultimate comfort food—rich, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s a recipe that everyone will love. Give it a try today and enjoy the warmth of homemade soup!