White Lasagna Soup
Creamy White Lasagna Soup with ricotta, spinach, and tender noodles. Easy, cozy weeknight recipe wit...
30-35
total time
6
servings
375 kcal
calories
Introduction: What Is Hamburger Noodle Soup?
Hamburger noodle soup is a cozy, no-fuss dinner that combines seasoned ground beef with tender egg or wheat noodles, vegetables, and a flavorful broth. This dish sits in the sweet spot between a classic beef-based soup and a simple noodle dish, delivering all the comfort of a traditional home-cooked meal with minimal fuss. The base typically begins with browned ground beef that adds savory depth, followed by aromatic vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery, which are sweated to build complexity. Broth — either beef or a well-balanced vegetable stock — pulls everything together and cooks the noodles until they are perfectly tender. The result is a warming bowl that appeals to both hungry kids and adults who want something nourishing and satisfying. What makes this recipe particularly valuable for home cooks is its adaptability. You can use pantry staples, switch noodle types, or alter seasoning levels to suit dietary needs. It’s an excellent weeknight option because it cooks quickly, can be made in one pot, and scales easily for leftovers or meal prep. The dish also freezes well if you omit the noodles before freezing and add them when reheating. Many families keep a version of this soup on their regular rotation because it’s forgiving: if you have a different vegetable or a random spice blend, the core technique still produces a delicious bowl. In the sections that follow, you’ll find detailed ingredient lists, practical substitutions, step-by-step cooking guidance, and tips for serving, storing, and making this soup your own.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe (Taste, Time, and Versatility)
There are several reasons hamburger noodle soup earns a permanent place in many home cooks’ repertoires. First, the flavor profile is universally appealing: the browned beef provides a rich, meaty foundation, while the vegetables and aromatics contribute natural sweetness and balance. Herbs like thyme and parsley and a bay leaf lend depth without overpowering the main ingredients. Second, this recipe is time-efficient: with a working time of around 10–15 minutes for prep and 20–30 minutes for cooking, you can have a satisfying dinner on the table in under an hour. That makes it ideal for busy weeknights when you want something hearty but don’t have hours to cook. Third, the recipe’s versatility is a major plus. Use egg noodles for traditional comfort or swap in pasta shapes like rotini or small shells if that’s what you have. For gluten-free needs, choose rice noodles or gluten-free pasta and adjust cooking times accordingly. You can also change the protein: ground turkey or chicken are leaner alternatives, and lentils provide a vegetarian option if you’re willing to replace the meat with plant-based protein and boost seasoning accordingly. The soup is also forgiving with vegetables: frozen mixed vegetables work well and save time, while root vegetables like parsnips can add an interesting twist. Finally, the make-ahead and freezer-friendly nature of hamburger noodle soup makes it an efficient meal-prep choice. Store the soup base separately from noodles if freezing, and add quick-cooking noodles when reheating to retain texture. Whether served with crusty bread, a simple green salad, or alone as a complete meal, this soup delivers comfort, convenience, and crowd-pleasing flavor.
Gathering Ingredients: What You’ll Need and Why (With Photo Reference)
Before you start, assemble your ingredients so the cooking flows smoothly. The core components are ground beef, aromatic vegetables, broth, noodles, and a handful of pantry seasonings. For ground beef, choose a lean-to-medium grind (80/20 or 85/15) if you want more flavor from the fat; leaner beef can be used if you prefer less grease. Onions and garlic provide savory aromatics; carrots and celery add sweetness and texture; and frozen or fresh peas add color and a pop of mild sweetness at the end. For the broth, homemade beef stock is ideal, but a good-quality store-bought beef or low-sodium chicken broth will do the job and save time. Noodles are flexible: egg noodles are traditional for their silky texture, but you can use any short pasta. If using fresh egg noodles, add them at the end and cook only until tender to prevent disintegration. Seasonings matter: kosher salt and black pepper are essential, but herbs like dried thyme, parsley, and bay leaves raise the flavor profile. A splash of Worcestershire sauce or a small spoonful of tomato paste deepens the umami. If you enjoy a subtle tomato note, add a diced tomato or a tablespoon of tomato paste during the simmer. For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey and use low-sodium broth. Having everything prepped — chopped vegetables measured, seasonings in a small bowl, noodles ready — speeds the sautéing and simmering stages. This mise en place approach reduces errors and prevents overcooking delicate ingredients. Below is a practical shopping checklist: 1 lb ground beef, 1 onion, 2–3 carrots, 2 celery stalks, 2–3 cloves garlic, 6–8 cups beef or chicken broth, 8 oz egg noodles, 2 bay leaves, 1 tsp dried thyme, salt, pepper, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional), and parsley for garnish. With this setup, you’ll be ready to cook without interruptions.
Ingredient Substitutions, Add-Ins, and Dietary Notes
Hamburger noodle soup is adaptable to many diets and ingredient availabilities. If you need a gluten-free version, choose gluten-free pasta—rice-based or corn-based varieties work best. Note that some gluten-free noodles can become mushy if overcooked, so add them toward the end and watch them closely. For low-carb or keto adaptations, replace noodles with spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles and reduce the carrots. If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace ground beef with cooked lentils, crumbled tempeh, or a plant-based ground meat alternative, and use vegetable broth. Increase umami by adding a tablespoon of soy sauce, tamari, or a reduced amount of Worcestershire (or a vegetarian Worcestershire) to mimic the depth of beef. To bulk up protein without significantly changing flavor, stir in cooked shredded chicken or cubed tofu after the soup has simmered. For extra vegetables, add diced potatoes, parsnips, green beans, or bell peppers; heartier vegetables should be added earlier in the simmer so they soften fully. If you like a tangy brightness, finish with a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of apple cider vinegar to lift the flavors. For spicier profiles, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce complements the savory beef. Be mindful of salt when using store-bought broths—choose low-sodium and adjust seasoning gradually. If you plan to freeze the soup, undercook the noodles or leave them out entirely and add freshly cooked noodles when serving for best texture. These substitution notes will help you host dinner for varied tastes while preserving the core comfort that makes hamburger noodle soup so beloved.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process: Browning, Simmering, and Timing (With Photo Guide)
Start by heating a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil if using lean ground beef; otherwise, the fat from 80/20 beef is often enough. Add the ground beef in an even layer, season with a pinch of salt and pepper, and let it brown without crowding the pan—this allows proper caramelization which builds flavor. Break the meat apart as it browns into bite-sized pieces. When the beef is mostly browned, push it to the side or transfer to a plate and drain excess fat if desired, leaving about a tablespoon in the pot for sautéing the vegetables. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add minced garlic for the last 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Return the beef to the pot, stir in tomato paste or Worcestershire sauce if using, and sprinkle in dried thyme and add bay leaves. Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld and vegetables to soften. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Add egg noodles and simmer according to the package instructions—typically 6–8 minutes for dried egg noodles. If using fresh noodles, they may take only 2–4 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure the noodles cook evenly. In the final minutes, add frozen peas and a handful of chopped parsley. Remove bay leaves before serving. Ladle into bowls and garnish with more parsley and freshly ground black pepper. The result should be a balanced broth, tender noodles, and savory beef in every spoonful.
Noodle Cooking Tips and Texture Control
Noodles are the heart of hamburger noodle soup, and how you handle them determines the soup’s texture. Overcooked noodles become mushy and can turn the broth cloudy; undercooked noodles are unpleasantly firm. Start by choosing the right noodle for the texture you like. Dried egg noodles offer a comforting, slightly chewy bite and hold up well in hot broth. Fresh egg noodles cook much faster and deliver a softer, silkier texture; they are best added at the very end of cooking. Short pasta shapes like small shells, ditalini, or rotini are excellent alternatives and will absorb broth slightly differently, offering varied mouthfeel. To prevent overcooking and sticking, stir the noodles frequently during the first few minutes after adding them. Use enough broth so the soup has a soupy consistency; if the pot is too full of ingredients relative to liquid, noodles will absorb more and swell excessively. If you plan to store the soup in the fridge or freezer, undercook the noodles by a minute or two or leave them out entirely and add fresh cooked noodles when reheating to preserve texture. For frozen storage, cool the soup quickly, refrigerate, then freeze in airtight containers. When reheating, if the soup seems thick because noodles have absorbed liquid, add a splash of hot broth or water to loosen the consistency and briefly simmer. Salt influences both noodle flavor and cooking time. If you use low-sodium broth, add a little extra salt when cooking the noodles to ensure they are seasoned through. A final finishing swirl of olive oil or a pat of butter can add sheen and a smoother mouthfeel to the finished bowl.
Serving, Garnishes, and Final Presentation (With Photo Inspiration)
Presentation is simple with hamburger noodle soup, but small touches make it feel elevated. Serve the soup in wide, shallow bowls to showcase the noodles and beef rather than deep mugs that hide the ingredients. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for color and a mild herbaceous note; a few cracks of black pepper on top bring freshness to each spoonful. For a richer finish, offer grated Parmesan or a small pat of butter that can melt into the broth, adding creaminess and umami. If you enjoy brightness, provide lemon wedges for guests to squeeze into their bowls—this heightens the flavors without altering the homey character of the soup. Accompaniments can be straightforward and delicious. Thick slices of crusty bread, dinner rolls, or homemade biscuits pair well and allow diners to soak up the savory broth. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness and adds textural contrast. For family-style service, present the pot at the center of the table so guests can help themselves; this fosters a casual, comforting meal experience. When arranging the final bowl, aim for balance: a generous ladle of broth, a good portion of noodles, and a scattering of meat and vegetables. Finish with a small herb sprinkle and perhaps a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil for sheen. The visual cue of bright carrots, green parsley, and glossy broth signals a well-executed soup and enhances the eating experience, making a simple weeknight dinner feel thoughtfully prepared.
Make-Ahead, Storage, and Reheating Best Practices
Hamburger noodle soup stores well when handled correctly, but noodles can be the trickiest element during refrigeration and freezing. For short-term storage, cool the soup to room temperature within two hours, then transfer it to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. If you plan to keep leftovers in the fridge, it’s often best to slightly undercook the noodles during the initial preparation; this way, they don’t become overly soft upon reheating. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water or broth if the noodles have absorbed too much liquid. For freezing, omit or undercook the noodles completely and freeze the soup base (meat, vegetables, and broth) in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove. When ready to serve, bring the soup to a simmer and add freshly cooked noodles, which will result in the best texture. Alternatively, freeze in portion-sized containers so you can defrost only what you need. Label containers with date and contents to ensure freshness. Reheating in the microwave is possible for quick single servings—heat on medium power in 30–60 second intervals, stirring between cycles to ensure even heating. For best flavor and texture, stovetop reheating maintains control and allows you to correct seasoning or add fresh herbs at the end. If the soup tastes flat after refrigeration, brighten it with a squeeze of lemon juice, a dash of soy sauce, or a pinch of salt before serving.
Variations, Add-Ons, and Frequently Asked Questions
There are many delicious variations to keep hamburger noodle soup interesting. For a cheesy twist, stir in shredded cheddar at the end for a creamy texture reminiscent of cheeseburger flavors. For a Mediterranean spin, add chopped tomatoes, oregano, and finish with crumbled feta. If you prefer a spicier profile, incorporate diced jalapeños during the sautéing stage or finish bowls with hot sauce. For an herb-forward version, swap thyme for rosemary or add fresh basil at the end. Common questions include: Can I substitute ground turkey? Yes—ground turkey works well, though it’s leaner. Add a drizzle of olive oil when browning to prevent dryness. Can I make this vegetarian? Replace ground beef with lentils or a plant-based ground meat substitute and use vegetable broth; add a splash of soy sauce for umami. How long does it last in the fridge? 3–4 days is typical. Can I freeze it? Yes, but freeze without noodles or with undercooked noodles. Final tips: taste as you go and adjust salt at the end, since reduced broths or added tomato paste may change sodium levels. Add delicate ingredients like peas and fresh herbs in the last few minutes to preserve their color and texture. Use a wide pot to ensure noodles cook evenly and to make stirring easier. With these variations and answers, you’ll be equipped to adapt the recipe to your pantry and preferences without losing the comforting essence of hamburger noodle soup.
Hamburger Noodle Soup
Easy hamburger noodle soup recipe: savory ground beef, tender noodles, vegetables, and a rich broth. Fast, family-friendly, and freezer-friendly.
total time
30-35
servings
6
calories
375 kcal
ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef 🥩
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional) 🫒
- 1 small onion, diced 🧅
- 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
- 2 medium carrots, diced 🥕
- 2 celery stalks, diced 🌿
- 6 cups beef broth 🍲
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained 🍅
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning 🌿
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional) 🌶️
- Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
- 2 cups egg noodles 🍜
- Chopped parsley (for garnish) 🌿
instructions
- 1. Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. If the pot is dry, drizzle in olive oil to prevent sticking.
- 2. Drain any excess fat from the browned beef to keep the soup from being greasy.
- 3. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- 4. Pour in the beef broth and the undrained diced tomatoes. Stir in the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- 5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and add the egg noodles. Cook uncovered for 8-10 minutes or until the noodles are tender but not mushy.
- 6. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- 7. Ladle the soup into serving bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley.
- 8. For an extra nutritious boost, stir in a handful of spinach or kale at the end of cooking and allow to wilt before serving.
- 9. Serve hot with crusty bread or your favorite crackers for a complete and satisfying meal.
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