Name: Easy Hamburger Noodle Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small yellow onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, peeled and diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices; 6 cups beef broth; 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables; 2 cups egg noodles (uncooked); 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

When the weather cools down or I just want something cozy and nostalgic, Easy Hamburger Noodle Soup is my go-to comfort in a bowl. It’s a one-pot wonder that brings together savory ground beef, tender vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles in a flavorful broth. What I love about it is how it manages to be both hearty and wholesome, filling without being heavy.

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This soup reminds me of family dinners where conversation flowed as freely as the ladles of soup into bowls. It’s humble, practical, and deeply satisfying — the kind of meal that makes you pause and appreciate the simple joys of life. Whether you’re looking to feed a hungry crowd or simply stock your fridge with delicious leftovers, this soup hits the mark every time.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Hamburger Noodle Soup

Quick to make: Comes together in just about 30 minutes.
Minimal cleanup: One pot is all you need.
Affordable ingredients: Pantry and freezer staples shine here.
Customizable: Easy to adapt to what you have on hand.
Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike love it.

What Kind of Noodles Should I Use for Easy Hamburger Noodle Soup?

You’re not locked into a specific noodle for this recipe, which is one of its best traits. I often use rotini or wide egg noodles because they hold up well in the broth and give that slurp-worthy bite that feels just right. Fusilli and elbow macaroni are also great choices, especially if you’re using whatever’s in the pantry. Just remember: cook the noodles until just tender so they don’t get mushy in leftovers.

Options for Substitutions

Sometimes you just have to work with what you’ve got — and this soup is super forgiving. Here are some solid swap ideas I’ve used:

Ground Meat: If you don’t have ground beef, try ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a flavor twist.
Broth: Beef broth deepens the flavor, but chicken or vegetable broth works well if that’s all you have.
Vegetables: Frozen mixed veggies are perfect, but fresh chopped carrots, celery, green beans, or corn fit right in.
Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes add a nice tang, but crushed or whole peeled (chopped up) tomatoes will do just fine.
Gluten-Free Noodles: Sub with gluten-free pasta or rice noodles, just be sure to adjust cooking time.

Ingredients for This Easy Hamburger Noodle Soup

Ground beef
The heart of the soup — it adds rich, savory flavor and satisfying protein.
Yellow onion
Adds a base layer of sweetness and depth once sautéed.
Garlic
Just a couple of cloves bring the whole pot to life with warmth and aroma.
Carrots
They lend a natural sweetness and a little bite, plus color.
Celery
Classic in any soup — it rounds out the veggie trio and adds a subtle bitterness.
Diced tomatoes
These give acidity and a tomato-rich base that balances the savory beef.
Beef broth
A rich, meaty liquid that ties everything together — the backbone of the soup.
Frozen mixed vegetables
Quick and easy way to boost nutrition and color without extra prep.
Egg noodles
Tender, curly noodles that soak up the broth beautifully without getting soggy too fast.
Salt and pepper
Essential for drawing out all the flavors in the pot.
Dried Italian seasoning
A pinch of this blend adds a subtle herby note that complements the meat and tomatoes.
Fresh parsley (optional)
For garnish — it brings freshness and a pop of green just before serving.

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed, but leave a little for flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot with the beef. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Base

Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and the beef broth. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 10–12 minutes so the flavors can come together.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables and Noodles

Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables and the egg noodles. Simmer for another 8–10 minutes, or until the noodles are tender and the veggies are heated through.

Step 5: Taste and Finish

Give the soup a taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top before serving for a fresh finish.

How Long to Cook the Easy Hamburger Noodle Soup

The total cooking time is about 30–35 minutes from start to finish. That includes browning the meat, sautéing the vegetables, simmering the broth, and cooking the noodles. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but still develops that homey, slow-simmered flavor.

Tips for Perfect Easy Hamburger Noodle Soup

Use lean ground beef (85–90%) to reduce excess grease while still keeping flavor.
Cut veggies evenly so they cook at the same rate and give a uniform texture.
Don’t overcook the noodles — keep them al dente, especially if you’re planning on leftovers.
Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking so the broth thickens slightly and the flavors meld.
Add broth if reheating since the noodles tend to absorb liquid over time.
Fresh herbs go a long way — a handful of parsley or even a dash of fresh thyme at the end lifts the entire soup.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Adding noodles too early: If you toss them in before the soup has simmered properly, they’ll turn mushy. Wait until the end for best texture.
Skipping the seasoning check: The broth needs salt, especially if you’re using low-sodium stock. Always taste before serving.
Overcooking the vegetables: Carrots and celery should still have a little bite — don’t let them go limp.
Using overly fatty beef without draining: Too much grease can dull the flavor and make the soup feel heavy.
Forgetting to stir: Especially after adding noodles, stir occasionally to prevent sticking at the bottom of the pot.

What to Serve With Easy Hamburger Noodle Soup?

Crusty Garlic Bread

Perfect for dunking into the savory broth and soaking up every drop.

Side Salad

A simple green salad with vinaigrette offers a crisp, fresh contrast.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Go for a classic — melty cheese and toasty bread pairs beautifully with a bowl of soup.

Saltine Crackers or Buttered Rolls

For an old-school touch, nothing beats crumbling some saltines into the soup.

Pickles or Pickled Vegetables

Their tangy crunch adds contrast and cuts through the richness of the beef.

Roasted Veggies

Especially if you’re skipping the frozen mix, add a tray of roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts on the side.

Cornbread Muffins

A touch of sweetness and a tender crumb — great with hearty soup like this.

Storage Instructions

This soup keeps wonderfully, making it a great meal prep option. Here’s how to store it properly:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The noodles may absorb some of the broth, so add a splash of water or broth when reheating.
Freezer: You can freeze the soup, but it’s best to freeze without the noodles to prevent them from turning mushy. Just add freshly cooked noodles when reheating. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm on the stove over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between bursts.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

These are approximate values based on a 1½ cup serving size:

Calories: 280
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 26g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 620mg

These values can vary based on your specific ingredients, especially the broth and noodle type used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep it in advance, but for best texture, cook the noodles separately and add them when serving.

How can I make this soup spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or a diced jalapeño while sautéing the vegetables to introduce some heat.

Is it okay to use canned vegetables instead of frozen?

You can, but add them at the very end to avoid overcooking since they’re already soft.

Can I cook the noodles separately?

Absolutely. This is a great idea if you’re planning to freeze or want to prevent soggy noodles in leftovers.

What kind of beef should I use?

Lean ground beef (85%–90%) works best — it adds flavor without excessive grease.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes! Use plant-based ground meat and swap beef broth for vegetable broth.

How do I thicken the soup?

Let it simmer uncovered for a bit, or mash a few of the cooked vegetables into the broth for a thicker texture.

Can I double the recipe?

Definitely — it scales up well and is perfect for freezing or feeding a crowd.

Conclusion

Easy Hamburger Noodle Soup is that kind of feel-good meal that brings everyone back to the table. It’s simple to prepare, full of flavor, and endlessly adaptable to your kitchen staples. Whether you’re feeding your family on a weeknight or warming up on a chilly afternoon, this soup is a trusty favorite you’ll find yourself making again and again.