When the chill sets in and you're looking for a way to warm your soul from the inside out, there's nothing quite like a steaming bowl of soup. Among the many soup varieties, ground beef soup stands out as a comforting, hearty, and incredibly easy - to - make option. In this article, we'll explore some of the best ground beef soup recipes that are sure to become staples in your dinner rotation.
One of the classic ground beef soup recipes is the Italian - inspired minestrone with ground beef. Start by browning a pound of lean ground beef in a large pot over medium - high heat. As the beef cooks, break it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Once it's nicely browned, add in a chopped onion, a couple of cloves of garlic minced, and let them sauté until fragrant. This forms the flavorful base of the soup.
Next, toss in a can of diced tomatoes, including their juices. The acidity of the tomatoes adds a bright note to the soup and helps to balance the richness of the beef. You can also add in some tomato paste for an extra depth of flavor. Then, it's time to introduce the vegetables. Add in carrots, celery, and zucchini, all chopped into bite - sized pieces. These vegetables not only add color and texture but also a wealth of nutrients.
For the liquid, pour in a few cups of beef broth. You can use either store - bought or homemade broth. The beef broth gives the soup its savory backbone. Let the soup simmer for about 20 - 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Towards the end, stir in some small pasta, such as elbow macaroni or orzo. Cook the pasta in the soup until it's al dente. Finish off with a sprinkle of fresh basil and a grating of Parmesan cheese on top. This minestrone with ground beef is a complete meal in a bowl, full of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates.
Another great ground beef soup recipe is the Mexican - style chili con carne. Begin by cooking the ground beef in a pot with a little bit of oil. Once it's cooked through, drain off any excess fat. Add in a chopped bell pepper, which can be green, red, or yellow depending on your preference. The bell pepper adds a sweet and crunchy element to the soup. Also, include a can of kidney beans, rinsed and drained, and a can of black beans for added protein and fiber.
Spice up the soup with chili powder, cumin, paprika, and a touch of cayenne pepper if you like it spicy. These spices give the chili con carne its characteristic bold and smoky flavor. Pour in a can of crushed tomatoes and enough beef or vegetable broth to reach your desired consistency. Let the soup simmer for at least an hour, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will intensify. Serve the chili con carne with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, and some chopped cilantro on top. It pairs perfectly with a side of cornbread.
If you're in the mood for a lighter ground beef soup, consider making a ground beef and vegetable broth soup. Start by browning the ground beef as usual. Then, add in a medley of fresh vegetables like spinach, kale, and mushrooms. These leafy greens and fungi are low in calories but high in vitamins and minerals. Pour in a generous amount of vegetable broth and let the soup simmer for a short time until the vegetables are tender.
You can season this soup with simple herbs like thyme and rosemary, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. This soup is a great option for those who are watching their calorie intake but still want a satisfying meal. It's also a wonderful way to incorporate more greens into your diet.
Making ground beef soup is not only easy but also very customizable. You can adjust the ingredients according to your taste preferences and what you have on hand. Whether you're a beginner cook or an experienced chef, these ground beef soup recipes are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. So, the next time you're looking for a warm and comforting dinner idea, reach for the ground beef and start simmering up a delicious bowl of soup.