Here’s a complete and polished recipe profile for Hamburger Noodle Soup, following your requested format and with the wide lines removed:
Introduction
Hamburger Noodle Soup is a heartwarming, one-pot comfort dish that brings the nostalgic flavors of a classic American kitchen straight to your table. With simple ingredients like ground beef, egg noodles, and tomatoes simmered in a savory broth, this soup is both satisfying and easy to prepare. It’s a perfect weeknight meal for busy families or anyone looking for a hearty and affordable dinner.
Origin and Cultural Significance
This soup traces its roots to mid-20th-century American home cooking, when budget-friendly and family-sized meals became staples in households across the country. Hamburger-based recipes were favored for their affordability and adaptability, often stretching a pound of meat across multiple servings. Adding noodles and broth turned it into a filling, warming dish that could feed a crowd. It reflects the ingenuity and practicality of home cooks during economic times when every ingredient counted—bringing nourishment and comfort in every bite.
Ingredients and Quantities
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter for richness)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups beef broth (or chicken broth for a milder flavor)
- 1 cup uncooked egg noodles
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Additions:
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or other mixed vegetables)
For Serving:
- Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)
- Crusty bread or dinner rolls (for dipping)
Optional Additions
- A pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat
- A splash of Worcestershire sauce for added depth
- A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a savory finish
- Substitute egg noodles with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta
- Add canned beans or lentils for extra protein and fiber
Tips for Success
- Use lean ground beef (80/20 or higher) to reduce the amount of grease you need to drain.
- Sauté onions and garlic well to build a strong flavor base—don’t rush this step.
- Cook noodles separately if you plan to store leftovers to avoid sogginess.
- Use low-sodium broth and adjust salt to taste for better control over the final flavor.
- Add frozen vegetables near the end to preserve their color and texture.
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked.
Drain any excess fat and set meat aside in the pot. - Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute. - Build the Broth
Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes and stir.
Add broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. - Add Noodles and Optional Vegetables
Stir in the uncooked egg noodles. Let simmer 8–10 minutes or until noodles are tender.
If adding frozen peas and carrots, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking. - Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with chopped parsley if desired.
Serve with warm crusty bread or buttery rolls for a comforting finish.
Description
Hamburger Noodle Soup is a cozy, flavorful dish that blends savory ground beef, soft egg noodles, and vibrant vegetables in a fragrant tomato broth. It’s a meal that fills your home with nostalgic aromas and your belly with contentment. The simplicity of the ingredients belies the rich, satisfying taste that makes this soup a timeless favorite.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. 1 of 6 servings)
- Calories: ~310 kcal
- Protein: ~18g
- Fat: ~14g
- Carbohydrates: ~25g
- Fiber: ~3g
- Sugar: ~4g
- Sodium: ~700mg
Note: Values will vary based on specific ingredient brands and quantities used.
Conclusion
Hamburger Noodle Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting throwback to wholesome, homemade cooking. Easy to prepare and budget-conscious, it’s ideal for feeding a family or making a batch to enjoy throughout the week. Its familiar flavors and nourishing ingredients make it a dependable go-to for any season.
Recommendation
Keep this recipe in rotation as a freezer-friendly option or a last-minute dinner idea. Make it your own by adding your favorite veggies or spices. Serve it with a fresh side salad and warm bread for a complete and satisfying dinner. It’s especially great for chilly evenings or when you’re craving something familiar and filling.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This soup is a great example of how comfort food can also be mindful. Using lean meat, extra vegetables, and broth-based cooking keeps the dish hearty but not heavy. It satisfies cravings for warmth and flavor without relying on processed ingredients or excess fat. By embracing whole, nourishing elements, you can indulge with confidence—one bowl at a time.
Would you like this in a printable PDF format or designed for a recipe card layout?