Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Hamburger Soup Recipe
Why will you love this Slow Cooker Hamburger Soup recipe? It’s simple, hearty, and packed with flavor.
I love how it brings comfort on busy days. You toss everything into the slow cooker, and let it do the work while you focus on other things.
The combination of ground beef and mixed vegetables creates a satisfying meal, and the spices elevate the taste to a whole new level. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some nutrients.
The best part? You can customize it to your liking, adding your favorite veggies or beans.
This soup warms you up and fills your belly, making it perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. Trust me, you’ll want to make this often!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Hamburger Soup
When it comes to making a delicious meal that can warm your heart and fill your belly, the right ingredients are key. If you’re thinking about trying that Slow Cooker Hamburger Soup we talked about, you should know that it’s not just about tossing random stuff into the pot. You want to have the perfect blend of flavors and textures.
So, let’s explore the list of ingredients you’ll need. Don’t worry, it’s not overwhelming at all, and you might even have some of these items in your pantry already.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Hamburger Soup:
- 1 1/2 lbs extra lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup mixed vegetables
- 1 (14 ounce) can baked beans (maple syrup variety is best)
- 4 green onions, sliced
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning (I like to use Mrs. Dash Herb and Garlic blend)
- 2 1/2 cups beef broth
- 1 (19 ounce) can stewed tomatoes
- 1 (7 1/2 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Now, let’s talk about some considerations when gathering these ingredients. For starters, if you’re a veggie lover, feel free to swap out the mixed veggies for whatever you have on hand—carrots, corn, or even some spinach could work wonders.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some beans in different flavors. The baked beans in maple syrup add a unique sweetness that really complements the savory elements of the soup.
Also, keep in mind that the ground beef can be substituted with turkey or a plant-based option if you’re looking for something lighter or vegetarian.
Just remember, the key is to have fun and make this recipe your own! So, gather those ingredients, and let’s get cooking.
How to Make Slow Cooker Hamburger Soup
Making Slow Cooker Hamburger Soup is a breeze, and it’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. First things first, grab your 1 1/2 lbs of extra lean ground beef and brown it in a non-stick pan.
Now, I know what you’re thinking—browning beef sounds simple, but it’s an art form. Make sure to break it up into smaller chunks as it cooks. You want it to be nice and crumbly, not a giant beefy blob. Once it’s browned to perfection, pour off the fat. Trust me, no one wants a greasy soup, so don’t skip this step.
Now, the fun part! Add the browned beef to your slow cooker. It’s like sending your ground beef off to a cozy retreat. Next, toss in 1/2 cup of mixed vegetables. You can use whatever you have on hand—frozen peas, carrots, or even that half a bell pepper lurking in the fridge.
Then, open up that magical can of baked beans (14 ounces, preferably in maple syrup), and let the sweetness mingle with the savory beef. Add in 4 sliced green onions, 2 teaspoons of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, and 1 teaspoon of chili powder for a little kick.
Oh, and don’t forget the 2 1/2 cups of beef broth, along with that 19-ounce can of stewed tomatoes and a 7 1/2-ounce can of tomato sauce. You might want to take a moment to admire the vibrant colors in your slow cooker—it’s like a little party in there.
Finally, throw in 1/2 cup of salsa, a sprinkle of salt, and a dash of ground black pepper. Stir it all together, and voilà! You’re ready to let the slow cooker do its magic.
Set it on low for about 8 hours, and try not to open the lid too often—let the flavors really blend and develop. I mean, who doesn’t love the smell of dinner wafting through the house?
When it’s finally time to eat, the soup should be rich, hearty, and bursting with flavor. Serve it up in bowls, and maybe add a dollop of sour cream or some shredded cheese on top if you’re feeling fancy.
Just remember, it’s not just soup; it’s a labor of love that you’ve created right in your own kitchen. Enjoy every flavorful spoonful, and feel free to pat yourself on the back for being such a culinary genius. Who knew slow cooking could be so satisfying?
Slow Cooker Hamburger Soup Substitutions & Variations
While the original Slow Cooker Hamburger Soup recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can experiment with to make it your own.
For a healthier twist, I often swap ground beef for turkey or chicken, which keeps it leaner. You can also add different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try using spicy salsa or adding jalapeños for a kick. For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with black beans or lentils.
Don’t forget about herbs—fresh basil or cilantro can brighten up the dish. Finally, play around with the spices; a dash of smoked paprika adds a nice depth.
Enjoy customizing your soup!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Hamburger Soup
Serving Slow Cooker Hamburger Soup can be a delightful experience, especially when paired with the right accompaniments.
I love to serve it with warm, crusty bread or buttery cornbread for dipping. A simple side salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup perfectly.
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, consider adding some cheesy garlic bread—it’s a crowd-pleaser!
For a bit of crunch, tortilla chips or crackers can also be great, especially if you sprinkle some cheese on top.
And don’t forget toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or sliced jalapeños for an extra kick.
These accompaniments elevate the meal and make it even more satisfying. Enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
When enjoying your Slow Cooker Hamburger Soup with delicious sides, it’s helpful to keep a few additional tips in mind for an even better experience.
First, I recommend using extra lean ground beef to keep the dish healthier and reduce grease. If you’re short on time, you can also prep the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge.
Don’t hesitate to customize the veggies—frozen mixed vegetables work great, or you can use whatever’s in your fridge. For extra flavor, I like adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce.
Finally, let the soup sit for a bit after cooking; the flavors meld together beautifully. Enjoy your meal!