Enjoy a comforting, flavorful Hamburger Orzo Soup that’s easy to make and perfect for weeknight dinners. Try it now for a satisfying meal.
Hamburger Orzo Soup
Hamburger Orzo Soup is a delicious, hearty meal perfect for chilly evenings. This easy-to-make soup brings together ground beef, flavorful vegetables, and tender orzo pasta in a rich broth. Whether you’re craving comfort food or a satisfying weeknight dinner, this recipe hits the spot.
Why You’ll Love It
This Hamburger Orzo Soup has everything you want in a simple soup: ground beef for protein, orzo for a pasta touch, and plenty of veggies for nutrition and flavor. It cooks quickly, making it an ideal choice when you want a warm, filling meal without hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile and freezes well.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef – lean or regular
- 1 medium onion, diced (substitute with shallots)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
- 6 cups beef broth (vegetable broth works for milder flavor)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted for smoky twist)
- 1 cup orzo pasta (gluten-free orzo can be used)
- 2 carrots, diced (substitute with parsnips)
- 2 stalks celery, diced (optional)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (can use butter)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until vegetables soften.
- Stir in garlic, oregano, and basil. Cook for one minute more, until fragrant.
- Pour in beef broth and diced tomatoes (with juice). Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add orzo pasta, reduce heat to low. Let the soup simmer gently for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until orzo is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
For more hearty and easy meals, check out our Easy Weeknight Dinners collection.
Expert Tips
To avoid overcooking the orzo, add it towards the end and keep an eye on the cooking time. If the soup gets too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. You can brown the beef in advance for a faster weeknight meal. This soup also freezes beautifully; just thaw and reheat gently.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. It stays good for 3 months frozen. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding extra broth as needed to adjust thickness.
Variations
- Vegan: Substitute ground beef with crumbled lentils or plant-based meat, and use vegetable broth.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free orzo or swap orzo for rice or quinoa.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free.
- Extra Veggies: Add spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for more depth.
FAQ
- Can I make Hamburger Orzo Soup in a slow cooker?
- Yes. Brown the beef and sauté the veggies first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours and add orzo during the last 30 minutes.
- What can I use if I don’t have orzo?
- You can substitute with small pasta shapes, rice, or even couscous.
- How do I prevent orzo from getting mushy?
- Add the orzo towards the end and cook just until tender—usually 8-10 minutes.
- Is Hamburger Orzo Soup healthy?
- Yes, it combines protein, vegetables, and pasta in a balanced, nutritious meal.
- Can I freeze this soup with orzo in it?
- Freezing with orzo is fine, but the pasta may soften slightly. If you prefer, freeze the soup without orzo and add cooked pasta when reheating.
Call to Action
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For additional recipe inspiration, visit the Food Network and discover more comforting meals.
