Freezer Meals: Hamburger Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for busy days, look no further than Freezer Meals: Hamburger Soup. This delicious soup combines savory browned ground beef, flavorful vegetables, and tender elbow macaroni in a rich broth that warms you from the inside out. Plus, it’s designed to be prepped ahead and frozen, making your weeknight dinners effortless and satisfying. Whether you’re new to meal prepping or a seasoned freezer meal fan, this soup will quickly become your go-to for wholesome, tasty convenience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but pack a powerful punch of flavor and texture. Each component contributes something special—from the juicy, seasoned ground beef to the medley of vegetables that add color and nutrition, to the elbow macaroni that provides comforting heartiness.

• Ground beef: 3 cups browned and well-drained for a lean, beefy base.
• Diced stewed tomatoes (Italian style): Adds a tangy, herb-spiked richness.
• Beef broth: The savory liquid foundation that brings everything together.
• Frozen vegetable mix: Convenient and colorful, enhancing both nutrition and texture.
• Corn kernels: Sweet pop that contrasts beautifully with the savory beef.
• Worcestershire sauce: Delivers depth and a subtly tangy, umami boost.
• Minced garlic: For that unmistakable aromatic kick.
• Dry thyme: Earthy and fragrant, balancing the dish’s flavors perfectly.
• Black pepper: A little heat to wake up your taste buds.
• Salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
• Bay leaf: Infuses a gentle herbal note while cooking.
• Uncooked large elbow macaroni: The comforting pasta shape that’s just right for soups.

How to Make Freezer Meals: Hamburger Soup

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by browning about 2 pounds of ground beef in a skillet until no pink remains. Drain it well to prevent excess grease in your soup, which helps keep the broth clear and balanced. The perfectly browned beef adds that rich, meaty flavor that forms the heart of your soup.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in a Freezer Bag

Into a gallon-sized freezer bag, add the browned beef, Italian style diced stewed tomatoes, beef broth, frozen vegetable mix, corn kernels, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, thyme, black pepper, salt, and a bay leaf. This method keeps prep minimal and cleanup easy.

Step 3: Seal and Flatten the Bag

Seal the bag securely, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Then, carefully flatten it so it freezes in a thin, manageable shape—this makes storage simpler and speeds up thawing later on.

Step 4: Freeze and Store

Place the flattened bag on a cookie sheet or flat surface in your freezer until fully frozen, usually a few hours. Once solid, you can store it upright or stacked. Remember, to enjoy your Freezer Meals: Hamburger Soup at its best, use it within three months.

Step 5: Cooking When Ready

When you’re ready to eat, transfer the frozen soup mixture to a large pot. Pour in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Simmer gently, stirring occasionally, until the macaroni is tender and the soup is piping hot through and through—about 15 to 20 minutes. Easy, hearty, and homey in every spoonful!

How to Serve Freezer Meals: Hamburger Soup

Garnishes

To elevate your bowl, top your soup with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. A swirl of sour cream or a dash of hot sauce can add even more personality to each serving. These little extras make your soup feel special without much effort.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up all that flavorful broth. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness beautifully, rounding out a well-loved, satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun family dinner, serve Freezer Meals: Hamburger Soup in bread bowls or large mugs for a casual, cozy vibe. You could also ladle it over rice or mashed potatoes for a fusion take, adding variety while keeping all the comforting flavors you love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers after enjoying this hearty soup, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently to preserve the texture of the pasta and vegetables—the flavors only get richer with time!

Freezing

Thanks to the original freezer bag method, this recipe is itself a model for easy freezing. After cooking, you can also freeze any portion leftovers in airtight containers for another 2 to 3 months, making it a versatile meal option whenever you want a cozy, quick dinner.

Reheating

Reheat leftover soup gently over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally until warmed through. To avoid overcooking the macaroni, you can add a splash of broth or water if the soup seems too thick. Microwaving works well too, covered, in short pulses to preserve texture.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta instead of elbow macaroni?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional and holds up well in soup, small shapes like ditalini, small shells, or even broken spaghetti work nicely too. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

You can swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Keep the Worcestershire sauce if you like, just check the label to make sure it’s vegetarian-friendly.

How long should I cook the soup after thawing?

Once thawed, simmer the soup for about 15 to 20 minutes or until the elbow macaroni is tender and all ingredients are heated through. Stir occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking or clumping.

Can I add more vegetables to this soup?

Definitely. Feel free to add diced carrots, celery, or green beans for extra flavor and nutrition. Just keep in mind that adding fresh vegetables might slightly extend cooking time.

What’s the best way to prevent freezer burn for this meal?

Removing as much air as possible from the freezer bag before sealing is key. Flattening the bag also helps, along with freezing the soup on a cookie sheet before transferring it to your freezer storage. Properly stored, it holds up well for up to three months.

Final Thoughts

Freezer Meals: Hamburger Soup is truly a lifesaver when you want a warm, satisfying meal without the fuss. Its simple ingredients come together beautifully in a soup that’s as nourishing as it is delicious. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you’ll love how it makes dinnertime easier and more enjoyable for you and your loved ones. Happy cooking!

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