Hamburger Noodle Soup

Introduction

This Hamburger Noodle Soup is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. When I made this for my family on a chilly evening, the pot was empty before I knew it. The combination of tender noodles, savory ground beef, and rich broth seasoned with herbs and vegetables makes it a comforting and satisfying dish. Even picky eaters couldn’t resist going back for seconds! It’s not just a soup; it’s a one-pot meal that brings everyone to the table, making it a staple in our household.

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Why You’ll Love Hamburger Noodle Soup

• Quick and easy: With straightforward steps, you can whip this up in under an hour.
• Kid-approved: The simple yet rich flavors appeal to even the pickiest eaters.
• Perfect for meal prep: It reheats beautifully, making it ideal for lunches or quick weeknight dinners.
• Budget-friendly: Simple, everyday ingredients come together to make a hearty dish.
• Customizable: Swap out vegetables, adjust seasonings, or use your favorite pasta to make it your own.

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Ingredients

For the soup:

• 2 cups egg noodles (or any sturdy pasta)
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 cup sliced celery
• 1 cup sliced carrots
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon basil
• 1/2 teaspoon seasoned salt
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 envelope dry onion soup mix
• 3 cups beef broth
• 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Cook the noodles:
   • Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt generously and cook the egg noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the vegetables:
   • Heat olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
   • Add the diced onion, sliced celery, and carrots. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
   • Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Cook the ground beef:
   • Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
   • Cook for 7-8 minutes, or until the beef is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender. Drain any excess fat if needed.
4. Season the soup:
   • Stir in the oregano, basil, seasoned salt, and salt and pepper to taste.
   • Add the dry onion soup mix and stir for about 30 seconds to release the spices’ aroma.
5. Add liquids:
   • Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, and soy sauce.
   • Stir everything together, bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 15 minutes to meld the flavors.
6. Add noodles and finish:
   • Stir in the cooked egg noodles and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes to heat them through.
7. Serve:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese, and serve hot.

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Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: 310 kcal

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Preparation Time

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes

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How to Serve Hamburger Noodle Soup

• Classic style: Serve in bowls with crusty bread or dinner rolls for dipping.
• With a salad: Pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
• Kid-friendly: Serve with grated cheese on the side for extra cheesiness.
• Topped with herbs: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color.
• Family-style: Present the soup in a large pot on the table so everyone can help themselves.

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Additional Tips

1. Use lean ground beef: This helps keep the soup flavorful without being overly greasy.
2. Experiment with pasta: Try rotini, penne, or shells for a fun twist.
3. Make it heartier: Add diced potatoes or extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
4. Freeze leftovers: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months; just reheat and enjoy.
5. Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go and tweak the herbs or salt levels to your preference.

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FAQ Section

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
   Yes! It reheats beautifully and can be made a day in advance for even better flavor.
2. Can I freeze Hamburger Noodle Soup?
   Yes, but freeze it without the noodles to prevent them from getting mushy. Add freshly cooked noodles when reheating.
3. What can I use instead of ground beef?
   Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based meat substitutes work just as well.
4. Can I make this soup gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free pasta and check labels on the onion soup mix and soy sauce to ensure they’re gluten-free.
5. How do I store leftovers?
   Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
6. Can I add other vegetables?
   Absolutely! Diced zucchini, green beans, or spinach would make excellent additions.
7. What if I don’t have onion soup mix?
   Substitute with a teaspoon of onion powder and a pinch of dried thyme for a similar flavor.
8. Is this soup spicy?
   No, but you can add red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you prefer a spicy kick.
9. What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
   Try grated cheddar or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
10. How can I thicken the soup?
    Add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water and let the soup simmer until it thickens.

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Conclusion

This Hamburger Noodle Soup is a perfect example of comfort food done right. With its hearty mix of ground beef, tender vegetables, and flavorful broth, it’s a meal that satisfies both the stomach and the soul. Quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just need a cozy dinner for a quiet evening, this soup is sure to hit the spot. Give it a try, and let the warmth and deliciousness fill your home!

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