Hamburger Noodle Soup

Hamburger Noodle Soup is a heartwarming dish with roots in traditional comfort food. Infusing simple ingredients with a rich, savory broth, this soup brings together the essence of a classic hamburger and the comfort of a warm bowl of noodles. It's an ideal meal for busy weekdays or a cozy weekend dinner, easy enough for any home cook yet satisfying in its flavors. Plus, the slow cooker makes it practically effortless, allowing you to enjoy tender, well-developed flavors with minimal hands-on time.

This hearty soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh, crisp salad. A side of garlic bread or a batch of homemade rolls complements the savory broth perfectly. For a touch of freshness, consider serving with a simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. These sides add both texture and refreshing elements to balance the richness of the soup. 

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
2 cups water
2 cups uncooked egg noodles
2 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 ribs celery, sliced
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.

2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

3. Transfer the beef, onion, and garlic mixture to a slow cooker.

4. Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, water, carrots, celery, dried basil, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.

5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

6. About 30 minutes before serving, add the uncooked egg noodles to the slow cooker. Stir to ensure noodles are submerged.

7. Continue cooking until the noodles are tender. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

8. Serve hot and enjoy 

Variations & Tips

For a twist, you can add a can of drained kidney beans or corn to the soup for extra texture and nutrition. Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. If you're gluten-free, substitute the egg noodles with gluten-free pasta. Additionally, you can add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for a deeper umami flavor