Name: Smoky Hamburger Soup 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; 3 medium carrots, chopped (1 1/2 cups); 3 stalks celery, chopped (1 1/2 cups); 4 garlic cloves, minced (may substitute 1 tsp garlic powder); 3 cups red or Yukon gold potatoes, chopped into 1/2” 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 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 incredibly cozy about a warm bowl of soup that hugs you from the inside out. This Smoky Hamburger Soup Recipe has that comforting feeling with a smoky twist that keeps me coming back again and again. It’s hearty, packed with flavor, and downright simple to whip up any night of the week.

Two white bowls filled with chunky beef and vegetable stew are placed on a white marbled surface. The stew has layers of tender brown ground beef, orange carrot cubes, yellow potato pieces, red tomato chunks, and green celery bits, all mixed in a rich reddish-brown broth. The bowls are garnished with finely chopped green herbs. A gold spoon rests inside the top bowl, while two more gold spoons lie beside the bottom bowl. A light beige cloth is partially visible on the bottom right, and a blue handle of a pot containing more stew appears in the top right corner. 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 Smoky Hamburger Soup Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Smoky Hamburger Soup Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Smoky Hamburger Soup Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you, this Smoky Hamburger Soup Recipe isn’t just another soup. It’s a rich, smoky, and savory delight that’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you just want something deeply satisfying without turning your kitchen into a disaster zone.

Flavor-packed broth: The secret smoky paprika and liquid smoke marry beautifully with the beef broth for a bold taste.
Simple, wholesome ingredients: You probably have most of these right in your pantry and fridge already.
Quick and fuss-free: Ready in just about 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable comfort: You can easily tweak veggies or spice levels to suit your family’s taste buds.

A white speckled bowl filled with chunky vegetable and meat stew, showing layers of diced orange carrots, green bell peppers, yellow potatoes, and browned ground meat all mixed in a thick red tomato-based sauce, sprinkled with fresh chopped green herbs on top, placed on a white marbled surface with scattered herbs around and golden spoons on the side photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

The beauty of this soup is how every ingredient plays a role—from building its smoky depth to balancing the fresh hum of vegetables. I always recommend going with fresh, crisp veggies and good-quality beef broth to really bring it home.

Flat lay of fresh lean ground beef shaped naturally, a whole yellow onion with bright golden skin, three medium vibrant orange carrots, three crisp green celery stalks, four plump garlic cloves, small white ceramic bowls each holding chili powder, ground cumin, salt, dried basil, dried parsley, dried oregano, and smoked paprika powders, a small bowl of black pepper, several chunky pieces of red and Yukon gold potatoes mixed together, one whole green bell pepper, a small white bowl filled with rich beef broth, another small white bowl with bright red fire roasted diced tomatoes with juices, a small white bowl of smooth tomato sauce, a small white bowl of glossy yellow deli mustard, a small white bowl with dark Worcestershire sauce, a small white bowl containing apple cider vinegar, a small white bowl of golden brown sugar, a small white bowl with liquid smoke, a small white bowl holding granulated beef bouillon, a wedge of sharp cheddar cheese with a bright orange rind, a few sprigs of fresh flat-leaf parsley, slender green onions or chives, and a small dollop of creamy white sour cream all arranged in perfect symmetry on spotless white ceramic dishes placed 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: I prefer lean ground beef for rich flavor, but turkey keeps it lighter and still tasty.
Yellow onion: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth once sautéed.
Carrots: They give natural sweetness and a subtle crunch when cooked just right.
Celery: Provides an aromatic base that pairs well with onion and garlic.
Garlic: Essential for that savory punch—minced fresh is best, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
Chili powder & ground cumin: These spices create warm, smoky layers of flavor.
Dried herbs (basil, parsley, oregano) & smoked paprika: They add complexity and that signature smoky hint that sets this soup apart.
Potatoes (red or Yukon gold): Perfect for giving the soup substance and soak up that glorious broth.
Green bell pepper: Adds a mild peppery brightness and texture.
Beef broth: The heart of the liquid base—choose reduced sodium so you can control seasoning.
Fire roasted diced tomatoes & tomato sauce: These bring acidity and a rich tomato flavor.
Yellow deli mustard & Worcestershire sauce: Small amounts punch up the savory, tangy undertones.
Apple cider vinegar & brown sugar: That sweet-and-sour balance rounds out the broth beautifully.
Liquid smoke (optional): It’s the smoky magic maker that takes this soup to the next level.
Bouillon or beef base: Helps deepen the meaty, umami flavor.
Cheddar cheese, parsley, green onions, sour cream: Classic toppings that compliment every comforting spoonful.

📝

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

I love how versatile this Smoky Hamburger Soup Recipe is. Sometimes I switch up the meat, other times I add extra veggies or adjust the smoke levels based on my mood. Honestly, you can’t really go wrong here—make it yours!

Variation: I once swapped ground turkey and added some corn kernels for a twist—and it was surprisingly delicious and lighter on the calories.
Spice level: If you like heat, sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne or serve with hot sauce for that extra kick.
Vegetarian option: Try using plant-based ground meat and vegetable broth instead, plus add beans for protein.
Slow cooker style: Brown the beef, toss everything in your crockpot, and simmer all day for a hands-off experience with amazing flavor.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Smoky Hamburger Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Brown the Meat

Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Toss in your chopped onion, carrots, and celery with a drizzle of oil and cook until softened—about 5 minutes. I like to let the onions get translucent but not browned. Then add the garlic and cook for another minute to bring out that fragrant aroma. Push the veggies to the side, add the ground beef, and break it up with your spoon. Brown it until no pink remains—this step builds flavor, so don’t rush it!

Step 2: Spice It Up and Add Veggies

With the beef nicely browned, sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and those delightful dried herbs including smoked paprika. Stir it all together so the spices bloom in the pot. Then add the potatoes and green bell pepper—these will cook in the broth and soak up all those flavors.

Step 3: Pour in the Liquids and Simmer

Next, pour in the beef broth, fire roasted tomatoes with juice, tomato sauce, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Give everything a good stir and bring the pot to a boil. Once bubbling, lower the heat to a simmer and cover. Let it cook gently for about 20–25 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.

Step 4: Finish with Smoke and Seasoning Adjustments

This is where I add the optional liquid smoke and granulated beef bouillon to deepen that smoky, savory punch. Taste and adjust salt or pepper as needed. Remember liquid smoke is potent—start with a teaspoon and go from there to avoid overpowering the soup.

Top Tip

Over the years, I've learned a few tricks that make my Smoky Hamburger Soup Recipe shine every time. These little nuggets can help you avoid common pitfalls and maximize flavor effortlessly.

Brown the beef thoroughly: Take your time here because those browned bits give the soup rich depth.
Add liquid smoke sparingly: It’s easy to go overboard; start small and taste before adding more.
Use fresh garlic when possible: It gives a brighter, fresher flavor compared to powder.
Simmer gently: High heat can make potatoes mushy; a gentle simmer keeps everything tender but intact.

How to Serve Smoky Hamburger Soup Recipe

smoky hamburger soup - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I’m all about topping this soup with a handful of shredded sharp cheddar cheese, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and a dollop of sour cream. A few sliced green onions or chives add that lovely pop of color and mild onion flavor that just makes every bite shine.

Side Dishes

Crispy garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls are my go-tos here—they’re perfect for soaking up every last drop of that smoky broth. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette helps balance the richness if you want something fresh alongside.

Creative Ways to Present

For family gatherings, I like serving this soup in mini bread bowls—kids love it! Or ladle into colorful bowls and line up a toppings bar so everyone can dress it up just how they like. It instantly turns a humble soup into a memorable meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It stays fresh in the fridge for about 3-4 days and actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Freezing

This soup freezes wonderfully. I portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion. When I thaw it, the texture remains great, and reheating is a breeze.

Reheating

I prefer reheating on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If it thickened too much in the fridge, I add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. Microwave works fine too, just heat in short bursts and stir between.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The flavors develop beautifully this way.

Is liquid smoke necessary?

No, it’s optional, but it adds a wonderful smoky layer that sets this soup apart. If you don’t have it, smoked paprika still imparts some of that smokiness.

Can I use different vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add or swap veggies like corn, green beans, or zucchini. Just be mindful of cooking times so nothing gets too mushy.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

Use plant-based ground meat or omit the meat entirely and add beans like kidney or black beans for protein. Swap beef broth for vegetable broth, and you’ll still get a hearty, satisfying meal.

Final Thoughts

This Smoky Hamburger Soup Recipe has become such a staple in my home because it strikes that perfect balance between easy, comforting, and just a little bit special with its smoky touch. I genuinely think once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again too. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, and trust me, everyone deserves a little of that.