Savory Instant Pot Hamburger Soup (Ready in 30 Minutes!)
Some meals just have a way of bringing people together, and for me, hamburger soup is one of them.
Back when I was a kid: it was the dish my mom would throw together on chilly nights. It was an all-around hit: it was cheap, easy to make, and oh-so-delicious. Every time, its rich, savory aroma would make us wander into the kitchen and ask our mom, “Is it ready yet?”
Now that I’m the one doing the cooking, I’ve found a way to make it even easier — the Instant Pot.
This Instant Pot Hamburger Soup is everything I love about the classic: hearty, comforting, and packed with ground beef, tender vegetables, and a flavorful broth, but made in a fraction of the time and with even less effort.
The Instant Pot does the heavy lifting, locking in all those rich, slow-simmered flavors in a matter of minutes and makes every sip feel like a warm hug.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Cooks in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
- Rich & Flavorful: A perfectly seasoned broth with hearty ingredients.
- Family-Friendly: A meal the whole family will love.
- Great for Meal Prep: Freezes well for make-ahead meals.
- Customizable: Swap in your favorite veggies or protein.
Ingredients & Substitutions
- 1 lb. ground beef, extra lean
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cups beef broth (or 4 cups of water with a beef bouillon cube)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 russet potatoes, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or a blend of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Prep & Cook Time
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 10 minutes |
| Total Time | 20 minutes |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the meat. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add the olive oil and ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. If there’s excess grease, drain it.
- Add aromatics and veggies. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, and celery. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the remaining ingredients. Add the broth, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pressure cook. Secure the lid, set the Instant Pot to high pressure, and cook for 8 minutes. Once finished, do a quick release.
- Serve and enjoy. Ladle into bowls and optionally garnish with fresh parsley and/or shredded cheese.
Expert Tips for the Best Hamburger Soup
- Deglaze the pot to avoid a burn warning. After browning the beef, pour in a splash of broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This prevents the Instant Pot from displaying a “Burn” message.
- Want to give your soup a little kick? A dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can do the trick.
- Make it heartier by stirring in cooked macaroni or rice.
- Instead of regular diced tomatoes, use fire-roasted diced tomatoes for a richer taste and an extra layer of smoky, slightly sweet flavor.
- If you’re short on time, toss in a bag of frozen mixed vegetables instead of chopping everything fresh. They cook quickly and make this soup even easier and quicker to prepare!
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Sodium | 500mg |
FAQs About Instant Pot Hamburger Soup
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based protein and use vegetable broth.
What other vegetables can I use?
Additional options include zucchini, bell peppers, green beans, or potatoes.
Can I freeze this for later?
Absolutely! Store leftover soup in an airtight container and freeze for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
Dig Into A Bowl of Comfort!
If you don’t know what to make for dinner tonight, why not try this Instant Pot Hamburger Soup for a hearty and satisfying meal? Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a quiet, cozy night at home, every spoonful will be sure to bring warmth and satisfaction.
