Name: Hearty Hamburger Soup with Smoky Tomato Broth Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef or turkey; 1 yellow onion, chopped; 4 garlic cloves, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder); 3 medium carrots, chopped (1 1/2 cups); 3 stalks celery, chopped (1 1/2 cups); 3 cups red or Yukon gold potatoes, chopped into 1/2 inch chunks; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 2 teaspoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 5 1/2 cups reduced sodium beef broth; 1 14.5 oz can fire roasted diced tomatoes with juices; 1 15 oz can tomato sauce; 1 tablespoon yellow deli mustard; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar; 1 tablespoon brown sugar; 2 teaspoons liquid smoke (optional); 2 teaspoons granulated beef bouillon or 2 crushed bouillon cubes; Cheddar cheese (highly recommended); Parsley; Green onions or chives; Sour cream

There’s something wonderfully cozy about a bowl of soup that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. This Hearty Hamburger Soup with Smoky Tomato Broth Recipe hits the spot with its rich, smoky tomato base and meaty goodness—perfect for family dinners or meal prep to keep you going all week.

Two white bowls are filled with thick vegetable and meat soup, showing three main layers: a thick red broth base with visible small chunks of ground meat, a middle layer of diced orange carrots and pale yellow potatoes, and a top layer of finely chopped green herbs sprinkled over the soup. Each bowl has a gold spoon resting inside or beside it. To the right, part of a pot with the same soup is visible, placed on a white marbled surface scattered lightly with chopped green herbs. Two additional gold spoons lie crossed on the marble near the bottom left, and a beige cloth is on the far right edge. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Hearty Hamburger Soup with Smoky Tomato Broth Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Hearty Hamburger Soup with Smoky Tomato Broth Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Hearty Hamburger Soup with Smoky Tomato Broth Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I’m genuinely excited to share the magic behind this soup—it’s quick to make, budget-friendly, and packed with layers of flavor from smoky paprika to tangy mustard and a touch of liquid smoke that really sets it apart from your average hamburger soup.

Deeply Flavorful Broth: The smoky tomato base is complex and comforting, tying all the ingredients together beautifully.
Affordable Ingredients: Using everyday pantry and fridge staples makes this soup easy on your wallet.
Flexible and Customizable: You can easily swap beef for turkey or add your favorite veggies to make it your own.
Make-Ahead Friendly: It tastes even better the next day and freezes well, so you’re set for future meals.

A white bowl filled with a thick stew showing about four layers: a deep red broth base, large light yellow chunks of potato scattered throughout, small green bell pepper pieces and diced orange carrots mixed in, and bits of browned ground meat evenly spread. The stew is topped with finely chopped fresh green herbs, some of which have fallen onto the white marbled surface beneath. The scene also includes two gold spoons resting on the surface and a blue and white cloth napkin beside the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

This soup shines because of the way simple ingredients complement each other—meatiness from the ground beef or turkey, sweetness from the carrots, earthiness from the potatoes, and a smoky, tangy tomato broth that brings it all to life. When you shop, look for fresh veggies and if possible, get fire-roasted diced tomatoes for that extra smoky punch.

Flat lay of a raw lean ground beef patty, a whole yellow onion, three medium unpeeled carrots, three fresh celery stalks, four garlic cloves with skin, a green bell pepper, a small pile of red and Yukon gold potato chunks, two brown eggs with clean shells, a small white ceramic bowl of chili powder, a small white bowl with ground cumin, a small white bowl with salt, a small white bowl with dried basil, a small white bowl with dried parsley, a small white bowl with dried oregano, a small white bowl with smoked paprika, a small white bowl of black pepper, a small white bowl of yellow deli mustard, a small white bowl containing Worcestershire sauce, a small white bowl with apple cider vinegar, a small white bowl of brown sugar, a small white bowl with liquid smoke, a small white bowl with granulated beef bouillon, a small pile of shredded cheddar cheese, a few fresh parsley sprigs, a few green onions, and a small white bowl of sour cream, all arranged symmetrically on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Ground beef or turkey: Lean beef gives great flavor, but turkey is a lighter, healthy option that still soaks up the broth beautifully.
Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth once sautéed, essential for that homey base.
Carrots: Their natural sweetness balances the smoky and tangy flavors perfectly.
Celery: Offers a subtle crunch and bright, savory notes.
Garlic: Minced fresh garlic gets that fragrant kick; garlic powder can be a convenient substitute.
Chili powder and cumin: These spices add warmth and a slight earthiness that elevate the broth.
Smoked paprika: This is the star that gives the broth its smoky personality without needing a grill.
Red or Yukon gold potatoes: They hold their shape well when simmered and soak up flavors without falling apart.
Green bell pepper: Adds a subtle bitterness and texture contrast.
Beef broth (reduced sodium): For that robust, savory liquid that forms the soup’s backbone.
Fire roasted diced tomatoes with juices: Bring smoky, charred tomato flavor that's indispensable here.
Tomato sauce: Deepens the tomato presence and thickens the broth slightly.
Yellow deli mustard: A sneaky tang that perks up the broth’s complexity.
Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and depth, boosting the meaty flavor beautifully.
Apple cider vinegar: Balances richness with a touch of acidity for brightness.
Brown sugar: Just a hint to counterbalance the acidity and smoky notes.
Liquid smoke (optional): For an extra punch of smoky flavor if you want it bolder.
Beef bouillon or better than bouillon: Intensifies the broth's meatiness without extra fat.
Cheddar cheese, parsley, green onions or chives, sour cream: These toppings add creaminess, freshness, and color that round out each bowl.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best parts about this soup is how easy it is to tweak. I like to add corn or kidney beans occasionally when I want extra heartiness. You can also swap the ground meat for plant-based alternatives if you want a vegetarian version—just simmer those longer to soak up all the smoky tomato flavor.

Variation: During chilly months, I’ve added a handful of chopped kale or spinach toward the end for a boost of greens and texture—totally delicious!

Step-by-Step: How I Make Hearty Hamburger Soup with Smoky Tomato Broth Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Meat and Build Flavor

I start by heating a large pot over medium heat and browning the lean ground beef or turkey. Break it up with a wooden spoon so it cooks evenly. Once cooked, I drain any excess fat to keep the soup light but flavorful. Then, toss in the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery and cook until the veggies soften and release their aromas—this step is key to the depth of flavor.

Step 2: Spice It Up

Next comes the spice mix—chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, basil, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. I sprinkle these over the meat and veggies, stirring well to toast the spices just a bit. This helps bring out their full flavors and fries off any rawness. Smelling that smoky paprika mingle with the aroma of garlic and onion always makes me smile—it’s like the soup lets you know it’s going to be good.

Step 3: Add Potatoes, Bell Pepper, and Broth

Then I add the chopped potatoes and green bell pepper, followed by the beef broth, fire-roasted diced tomatoes with their juices, and tomato sauce. This is when the soup really starts coming together—lots of savory tomato goodness accented by smoky undertones. Stir everything well to combine.

Step 4: Layer in the Secret Ingredients

To deepen the broth, I stir in yellow deli mustard, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, liquid smoke (if I'm using it), and granulated beef bouillon. It might sound like a lot, but these little extras build a complex, smoky, slightly sweet, tangy broth that’s irresistible. Once everything’s in, I bring the soup to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 25 minutes until the potatoes are tender.

Step 5: Final Touches and Taste Test

Before serving, I always give the soup a good taste and adjust seasoning if needed—sometimes a pinch more salt or a splash more vinegar lifts the flavors perfectly. Then it’s ready to ladle into bowls and garnish.

Top Tip

I’ve learned over the years that the magic in this Hearty Hamburger Soup with Smoky Tomato Broth Recipe really lives in toasting your spices just right and balancing the acidity with the brown sugar and vinegar. It’s these little layers that turn simple ingredients into something truly special.

Spice Toasting: Don’t skip browning the spices—this brings out their complexity and prevents any raw or bitter notes.
Balanced Acidity: The apple cider vinegar and brown sugar work together like a team, so add them gradually and taste as you go.
Liquid Smoke Use: Start with less than the recipe calls for if you’re new to liquid smoke—it packs a punch and you can always add more!
Don’t Overcook Potatoes: Keep an eye on your potatoes—they should be tender but not mushy for the best texture.

How to Serve Hearty Hamburger Soup with Smoky Tomato Broth Recipe

hearty hamburger soup - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I love topping mine with shredded sharp cheddar cheese that melts right into the hot soup, a dollop of sour cream for creaminess, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thinly sliced green onions for a pop of freshness and color. These little extras make every bite so satisfying.

Side Dishes

Crusty bread or buttery garlic toast are my go-tos here—they’re perfect for dipping and soaking up that smoky tomato goodness. Sometimes, I’ll throw together a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette to brighten the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy dinner party, I’ve served this soup in mini cast iron skillets or bread bowls—it instantly makes it feel more festive and homey. Adding a swirl of sour cream and a sprinkle of smoked paprika on top really elevates the presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, so it tastes even better the next day. Just reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat to prevent the potatoes from getting mushy.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully. I portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving room for expansion. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. The smoky tomato broth stays vibrant and delicious even after freezing.

Reheating

When reheating, do it slowly on the stove to allow the flavors to meld back together without breaking down the potatoes too much. If the soup thickens too much in the fridge, just add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in this Hearty Hamburger Soup with Smoky Tomato Broth Recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works great as a lighter alternative. Just brown it carefully like beef, and the smoky tomato broth will make it taste just as rich and satisfying.

What is liquid smoke, and is it necessary for this soup?

Liquid smoke adds a concentrated smoky flavor without needing a grill or smoker. It’s optional but recommended if you want that authentic smoky tomato broth taste. Start with a small amount since it’s quite potent.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the meat and sauté the veggies first, then add everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for about 3-4 hours until potatoes and carrots are tender.

How long does this Hearty Hamburger Soup with Smoky Tomato Broth Recipe keep in the fridge?

It keeps well for up to 4 days in the refrigerator when stored in airtight containers. Always reheat thoroughly before serving.

Final Thoughts

This Hearty Hamburger Soup with Smoky Tomato Broth Recipe has a permanent spot in my meal rotation because it's just so comforting and adaptable. Whenever I need a quick, crowd-pleasing dinner that feels like a warm, nourishing hug, I reach for this. Give it a try—you’ll find it’s not just soup; it’s a bowl full of love and smoky, savory happiness.