There’s something about a warm bowl of soup that feels like a hug in a bowl, isn’t there? And when it’s Hamburger Noodle Soup, it’s even better. This recipe is the perfect mix of hearty, savory flavors and simple ingredients that come together in no time. Whether feeding a hungry family or craving something cozy, this soup covers you. Trust me, you’ll love this one—it’s so good, you might make it twice in one week.
Why I Love This Hamburger Noodle Soup Recipe
I’ve always enjoyed comfort food, especially dishes that remind me of home. This Hamburger Noodle Soup is one of those recipes that checks all the boxes. It’s quick, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can tweak it to your taste or what you have in your pantry.
What I love most is how it brings everyone to the table. The aroma of simmering beef, onions, and garlic is irresistible, and the noodles soak up just enough broth to be tender while still holding their bite. It’s like a warm hug for your soul, especially on chilly nights. And let’s be honest—anything that combines ground beef and noodles is bound to be a hit, right?
Key Ingredients for Hamburger Noodle Soup
The splendor of this soup is in its simplicity. You probably have already got the maximum of these components in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish. I like to use lean ground beef, so the soup isn’t too greasy, but you can go for whatever you prefer. If you’re feeling adventurous, ground turkey or chicken works too.
- Onion and Garlic are the foundation of flavor. Don’t skip them—they add depth and a wonderful aroma to the soup.
- Carrots and Celery: These veggies add color, subtle sweetness, and crunch. If you have zucchini or bell peppers, toss them in.
- Tomato Paste and Diced Tomatoes give the soup its rich, savory base. If you’re out of tomato paste, a splash of ketchup can work in a pinch!
- Beef Broth is the backbone of the soup. I always choose low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
- Egg Noodles: The noodles soak up the broth beautifully. You can also use macaroni, rotini, or rice if you prefer.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of paprika bring everything together. Don’t forget to taste as you go!
Pro Tip: If you like a little heat, add a dash of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. It’s a game-changer!
How to Make Hamburger Noodle Soup
Making this soup is as easy as it gets. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Cook the Ground Beef: Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once fully browned, drain any excess grease and set the beef aside.
- Sauté the Veggies: In the same pot, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until they’re soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes. This step builds the base flavor of the soup.
- Add the Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Season the Soup: Add salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Taste and adjust as needed. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Cook the Noodles: Add the egg noodles directly to the pot and let them cook in the broth. This not only saves time but also infuses the noodles with flavor. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Combine Everything: Once the noodles are tender, return the cooked ground beef to the pot, stir everything together, and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan if you feel fancy. For a complete meal, serve it with crusty bread or a side salad.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t overcook the noodles! They’ll continue to soften in the hot broth, so aim for al dente when you take the pot off the heat.
Chef’s Tips & Variations for Hamburger Noodle Soup
One of the best things about Hamburger Noodle Soup is how customizable it is. Whether you want to make it healthier, more indulgent, or just different, there’s a variation for you. Here are some tips and ideas to make this recipe your own:
- Add More Veggies: Want to pack in extra nutrients? Toss in some spinach, kale, or even frozen peas during the last few minutes of cooking. They’ll add color and a burst of freshness.
- Swap the Protein: Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat substitutes work wonderfully in this recipe. If you’re fancy, try using Italian sausage for a spicier kick.
- Make It Creamy: For a more decadent soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half right before serving. It’ll give the broth a velvety texture.
- Go Gluten-Free: Swap the egg noodles for gluten-free pasta or rice. Quinoa is another great option for a heartier twist.
- Spice It Up: If you love heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the broth. You can also sprinkle in some chili powder for a smoky kick.
- Cheesy Goodness: Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Trust me, it’s so good.
Pro Tip: If you’re cooking for kids, let them sprinkle their cheese or croutons on top. It makes the meal interactive and fun!
If you’re a fan of comforting, creamy soups, you might also love this Crack Chicken Noodle Soup—a rich and flavorful dish that’s easy to make!
Storing, Reheating & Freezing Hamburger Noodle Soup
This soup is perfect if you want to prep or save some later. Here’s how to store it properly so you can enjoy it whenever you want:
- Storing in the Fridge: Ensure the soup cools down before transferring it to a container with a tight lid. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for around 4 days. Remember that the noodles might soak up the broth over time, so you might need to add some water or broth when reheating.
- Reheating: Warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring it occasionally, until it’s nice and hot. You can also pop it in the microwave, heating it in one-minute increments and stirring it in between.
- Freezing: If you plan on freezing the soup, it’s best to leave the noodles out and cook them fresh when you’re ready to eat. Store the soup base in a container suitable for freezing, and it’ll be good for up to 3 months. When reheating, add your cooked noodles or pasta to the thawed soup.
Freeze individual portions so you can quickly grab one for a quick lunch or dinner when you’re busy!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Sure thing! Start by browning the ground beef, then transfer it to your slow cooker with the veggies, tomatoes, and broth. Let it simmer on low heat for about 6 to 8 hours, or if you’re in a hurry, turn up the heat and cook it on high for 3 to 4 hours. Add the noodles during the last half hour.
2. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! Chop 4-5 fresh tomatoes instead of canned diced tomatoes. You might need to add a bit more tomato paste to keep that rich flavor going strong.
3. What can I do if my soup is too thick?
If your soup ends up being thicker than you want it to be, add more beef broth or water until it’s just right. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning afterwards!
What to Serve with Hamburger Noodle Soup
Although this soup is filling, pairing it with the right sides can take your meal to the next level. Check out these ideas:
- Crusty Bread: Grab a warm, crusty baguette or a nice dinner roll to soak up all that fantastic broth.
- Side Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy dressing is a delicious way to balance out the richness of the soup.
- Grilled Cheese: Why not go all out with comfort food? A cheesy and toasty grilled cheese sandwich is the perfect sidekick.
- Roasted Vegetables: If you’re in the mood for something lighter, serve the soup with some roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus.
Pro Tip: If you’re having a dinner party, serve the soup as an appetizer and follow it up with a hearty main dish like roasted chicken or baked ziti.
Conclusion
Hamburger Noodle Soup is more than just a recipe—it’s a cozy and comforting meal that brings people together. With its simple ingredients, easy prep, and endless options, it’s a dish you’ll return to. Whether you’re making it for a relaxed family dinner, prepping meals for the week ahead, or simply craving something warm on a chilly day, this soup has your back. So what are you waiting for? Get your ingredients, fire up the stove, and try this recipe. I’m pretty certain you’ll enjoy it—make sure to let me know how it turns out!
Print
Hamburger Noodle Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 40 minutes 1x
Description
Warm and hearty Hamburger Noodle Soup made with tender noodles, savory ground beef, and colorful vegetables. This comforting recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep days.
Ingredients
The Soup Base:
- 1 lb ground beef (lean preferred)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 6 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
The Noodles:
- 2 cups egg noodles (or your preferred pasta)
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef
First, heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Be sure to drain any excess fat and set the beef aside for later. - Sauté the Aromatics
Next, in the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Stir occasionally and let them sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. - Add the Vegetables
Then, toss in the diced carrots and celery. Stir everything together and cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly. - Incorporate the Tomatoes and Broth
Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, and then reduce the heat to low to simmer. - Season the Soup
At this point, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes so the flavors can meld beautifully. - Cook the Noodles
Meanwhile, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions in a separate pot. Once done, drain the noodles and set them aside. - Combine and Serve
Finally, add the cooked noodles and browned ground beef to the soup. Stir everything together and let it heat through for 2-3 minutes. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Tip: If you plan to prepare this soup beforehand, store the noodles separately to prevent them from soaking up too much broth. Add them just before serving or reheating.
- Vegetarian Option: To make this recipe vegetarian, swap the ground beef for a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Spice it Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the soup.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Alternatively, you can freeze the soup (without the noodles) for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 55mg