Baby Slow Cooker Hamburger Vegetable Soup Recipe: A Comforting One-Pot Wonder
When the temperature drops, there’s nothing more inviting than the aroma of a warm, hearty soup simmering in your slow cooker. This Baby Slow Cooker Hamburger Vegetable Soup is the perfect remedy for chilly days, offering a cozy, comforting meal that’s not only simple to make but also bursting with flavor. With tender potatoes, savory ground beef, and colorful mixed vegetables in a rich broth, this recipe is ideal for one or two servings—perfect for smaller households or meal prep. Plus, it’s so easy to make, it practically cooks itself while you go about your day.
Let’s dive into this irresistible dish that will become your go-to comfort food in no time.
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Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need and why each ingredient matters:
1/2 lb ground beef: The star of the dish, providing richness and protein.
1 cup of beef broth (or substitute with tomato sauce or juice): Creates a flavorful base, while tomato-based options add a tangy depth.
4 oz frozen mixed vegetables, thawed: Adds color, texture, and a variety of nutrients.
1/4 small onion, diced: Enhances the soup’s depth with a mild sweetness and savory edge.
1 clove garlic, minced: Infuses aromatic warmth.
1 cup diced tomatoes: Adds freshness and balances the richness of the beef.
1 peeled and chopped potato: Provides heartiness and balances the soup’s flavors with its creamy texture.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.
1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds a hint of herbal brightness.
1/4 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce: Boosts umami and ties all the flavors together.
Seasoned salt, onion powder, and garlic powder (optional): Use when browning the beef to add an extra layer of flavor.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Ingredients
Start by dicing your onion, potatoes, and thawing the mixed vegetables. Aim to cut the potatoes into chunks similar in size to the mixed vegetables for even cooking.
2. Brown the Ground Beef
In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. For maximum flavor, sprinkle in seasoned salt, onion powder, and garlic powder while cooking. Drain the grease if desired.
3. Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
Transfer the browned ground beef to your slow cooker. Add the beef broth (or tomato base), mixed vegetables, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, chopped potato, salt, Italian seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce.
4. Cook Low and Slow
Set your slow cooker to low heat for 6 hours or high heat for 3 hours. The soup is ready when the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.
Pro Tip: For crisper vegetables, wait until the last 30-60 minutes of cooking to stir in the thawed mixed vegetables.
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Serving Suggestions
This soup is a complete meal in itself, but it pairs beautifully with:
Freshly baked dinner rolls or crusty bread: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
A light side salad: Adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty soup.
A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese: For added richness.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Simplicity: Minimal prep and hands-off cooking make it perfect for busy days.
Versatility: Easily adapt to your preferences by swapping or adding ingredients, such as sweet potatoes or a pinch of chili powder for heat.
Make-Ahead Friendly: The flavors deepen when stored, making it even more delicious the next day.
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Pro Tips for Success
Season as You Go: Adding a touch of seasoned salt and spices while browning the beef makes a noticeable difference.
Don’t Skip the Worcestershire Sauce: It’s the secret ingredient that ties the flavors together.
Freeze Leftovers: This soup freezes beautifully, so make extra and save it for a quick, comforting meal later.
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Conclusion
This Baby Slow Cooker Hamburger Vegetable Soup is more than just a recipe—it’s the ultimate comfort food that fills your home with an irresistible aroma and your belly with warmth. Its simple preparation, adaptable ingredients, and wholesome flavors make it a standout choice for anyone seeking a delicious, fuss-free meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, a loved one, or planning to enjoy leftovers, this soup is guaranteed to impress.
So, grab your slow cooker and give this recipe a try—you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again. It’s that good.
