Are you looking for a comforting and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and can be cooked to perfection in a slow cooker? Look no further than hamburger soup. This classic dish is a staple of American cuisine, and for good reason – it’s a hearty and flavorful meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. In this article, we’ll show you how to make hamburger soup in a slow cooker, including the ingredients you’ll need, the steps to follow, and some tips and variations to make the dish your own.
Why Make Hamburger Soup in a Slow Cooker?
There are many reasons why making hamburger soup in a slow cooker is a great idea. Here are just a few:
- Convenience: Slow cookers are designed to make cooking easy and convenient. Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker in the morning, and come home to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal.
- Tender meat: Slow cooking is a great way to cook tougher cuts of meat, like ground beef, until they’re tender and flavorful.
- Rich flavors: The long cooking time in a slow cooker allows the flavors of the soup to meld together and intensify, creating a rich and satisfying broth.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make hamburger soup in a slow cooker:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp tomato paste (optional)
Optional Ingredients
- 1 cup diced bell peppers
- 1 cup diced zucchini
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions
Here’s how to make hamburger soup in a slow cooker:
Browning the Ground Beef
Before adding the ground beef to the slow cooker, it’s a good idea to brown it in a pan to create a rich, caramelized crust. Here’s how:
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain the excess fat from the skillet and add the browned ground beef to the slow cooker.
Adding the Vegetables and Broth
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced potatoes to the slow cooker.
- Stir in the frozen peas and carrots, diced tomatoes, beef broth, dried oregano, and dried basil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking the Soup
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours.
- About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the tomato paste (if using).
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to make your hamburger soup even better:
- Use lean ground beef: If you’re watching your fat intake, use lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) to reduce the fat content of the soup.
- Add other vegetables: Consider adding other vegetables, such as diced bell peppers or zucchini, to the soup to increase the nutrient content and flavor.
- Use fresh herbs: Instead of using dried herbs, try using fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, to add a bright, fresh flavor to the soup.
- Serve with cheese: Serve the soup with a sprinkle of grated cheddar cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making hamburger soup in a slow cooker:
- Overcooking the soup: Be careful not to overcook the soup, as this can make the meat tough and the vegetables mushy.
- Not browning the ground beef: Browning the ground beef is an important step in creating a rich, flavorful broth. Don’t skip this step!
- Not seasoning the soup: Be sure to season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, as this will bring out the flavors of the other ingredients.
Conclusion
Making hamburger soup in a slow cooker is a great way to create a hearty and delicious meal with minimal effort. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a rich and satisfying soup that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you!
Slow Cooker Hamburger Soup Nutrition Information (per serving)
| Nutrition Information | Amount |
| ——————— | —— |
| Calories | 420 |
| Total Fat | 24g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Cholesterol | 60mg |
| Sodium | 450mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Protein | 25g |
Note: Nutrition information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
What is Slow Cooker Hamburger Soup?
Slow Cooker Hamburger Soup is a delicious and hearty meal made with ground beef, vegetables, and beans, all cooked together in a slow cooker. This soup is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal, and it’s great for feeding a large family or a crowd. The slow cooker does all the work, so you can come home to a hot, ready-to-eat meal.
The best part about Slow Cooker Hamburger Soup is that it’s incredibly easy to make. Simply brown the ground beef, add in your favorite vegetables and beans, and let the slow cooker do the rest. You can customize the recipe to suit your tastes, adding in your favorite spices and ingredients. Whether you’re a busy parent or a college student, this soup is a great option for a quick and easy meal.
What are the main ingredients in Slow Cooker Hamburger Soup?
The main ingredients in Slow Cooker Hamburger Soup are ground beef, diced tomatoes, beans, and vegetables. You’ll also need some broth and tomato paste to give the soup its rich and flavorful base. Some recipes may also include additional ingredients, such as potatoes, carrots, and celery. You can customize the recipe to suit your tastes, adding in your favorite vegetables and spices.
In addition to the main ingredients, you’ll also need some seasonings and spices to give the soup its flavor. Salt, pepper, and oregano are staples in many Slow Cooker Hamburger Soup recipes, but you can also add in other spices and herbs to suit your tastes. Some people like to add in a bit of cumin or chili powder to give the soup a spicy kick.
How do I make Slow Cooker Hamburger Soup?
To make Slow Cooker Hamburger Soup, start by browning the ground beef in a pan over medium-high heat. Once the beef is browned, add in your diced vegetables and cook until they’re tender. Then, add in the beans, diced tomatoes, broth, and tomato paste, and stir to combine. Transfer the mixture to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Once the soup is cooked, season it with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices. You can also add in some noodles or rice to make the soup more filling. Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese. You can also customize the recipe to suit your tastes, adding in your favorite ingredients or spices.
Can I customize Slow Cooker Hamburger Soup to suit my tastes?
Yes, you can customize Slow Cooker Hamburger Soup to suit your tastes. One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile, so you can add in your favorite ingredients or spices to make it your own. If you like spicy food, you can add in some diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit the spices or add in some cream to give the soup a creamy texture.
You can also customize the recipe by adding in your favorite vegetables or beans. Some people like to add in diced potatoes or carrots, while others prefer to add in some frozen peas or corn. You can also experiment with different types of broth or tomato paste to give the soup a unique flavor. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative and make the recipe your own.
Is Slow Cooker Hamburger Soup healthy?
Slow Cooker Hamburger Soup can be a healthy option, depending on the ingredients you use. Ground beef can be high in fat and calories, but you can use leaner ground beef or add in some beans or vegetables to make the soup more nutritious. The vegetables and beans in the soup are also packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a nutritious and filling meal.
To make the soup even healthier, you can use low-sodium broth and omit the added salt. You can also add in some spinach or kale to give the soup a boost of antioxidants. Some people like to add in some quinoa or brown rice to make the soup more filling and nutritious. By making a few simple tweaks, you can make Slow Cooker Hamburger Soup a healthy and delicious option for your family.
Can I make Slow Cooker Hamburger Soup in advance?
Yes, you can make Slow Cooker Hamburger Soup in advance. One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s perfect for meal prep or making ahead. You can brown the ground beef and cook the vegetables a day or two in advance, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
You can also make the soup in its entirety and refrigerate or freeze it for later. Simply reheat the soup in the slow cooker or on the stovetop, and serve hot. This is a great option for busy families or individuals who want to have a healthy and delicious meal ready to go. You can also portion out the soup into individual containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
How do I store and reheat Slow Cooker Hamburger Soup?
To store Slow Cooker Hamburger Soup, let it cool completely, then refrigerate or freeze it in airtight containers. You can store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat the soup, simply place it in the slow cooker or on the stovetop and heat until hot and steaming.
You can also reheat the soup in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat it. Some people like to add in a bit of water or broth to thin out the soup before reheating it. You can also add in some fresh herbs or spices to give the soup a fresh flavor. By storing and reheating the soup properly, you can enjoy a delicious and healthy meal all week long.