If you’re craving a meal that truly warms you from the inside out, the Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef Recipe is your new best friend. This soup is a fantastic blend of tender lentils, savory ground beef, and a bouquet of aromatic vegetables and spices that come together in a rich, comforting broth. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day yet is packed with protein and fiber to keep you satisfied and energized. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just craving something nourishing and delicious, this recipe hits every mark effortlessly.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to nailing the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in your Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef Recipe. Each item on this list plays an important role in building those layers of savory goodness and hearty satisfaction.
- 1 lb ground beef: Adds rich, meaty depth and protein to the soup.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Provides a sweet and aromatic base to build on.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a punch of savory warmth and complexity.
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced: Add subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 celery stalks, diced: Offer a crisp texture and brighten the flavor profile.
- 1 1/2 cups dried lentils (green or brown), rinsed: These little legumes soak up flavors and bulk up the soup with fiber and protein.
- 6 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth): Forms the flavorful and comforting liquid base.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes: Adds acidity and a fresh, tangy note.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: A classic herb that blends beautifully with the heartiness of the soup.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Lends an earthy, slightly peppery tone.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: Brings a subtle smoky warmth and depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional): Adds a hint of smokiness that makes the flavors pop.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for browning the ground beef and softening the veggies.
- 2 bay leaves: Infuse a gentle herbal fragrance while the soup simmers.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Provides a fresh, bright finish.
How to Make Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Browning the beef thoroughly, about 6 to 8 minutes, is essential because it develops rich flavors that become the hearty backbone of your soup. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat for a cleaner taste if needed.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Next, toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery with the browned beef. Stir them around for about 5 minutes until they soften up. These veggies add texture and a subtle sweetness that balances the savory meat perfectly.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices
Now it’s time to layer in those incredible aromas. Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, oregano, cumin, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Cook everything together for 1 to 2 minutes so the spices bloom and fill your kitchen with mouth-watering scents.
Step 4: Combine Lentils, Tomatoes, and Broth
Pour in the rinsed lentils, canned diced tomatoes with their juice, and the beef broth. Give everything a good stir to mix those flavors. Bring the whole pot to a boil over medium-high heat—this is the exciting moment where your ingredients start to bond into one delicious dish.
Step 5: Simmer with Bay Leaves
Once boiling, lower the heat and add the bay leaves. Cover the pot and let the soup gently simmer for 30 to 40 minutes. During this time, the lentils will become tender, and all those vibrant flavors will meld beautifully. Remember to stir it occasionally so nothing sticks or scorches on the bottom.
Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Texture
Taste your soup and add salt and pepper as needed to suit your palate. If you like a thicker consistency, partially mash some of the lentils with a potato masher or an immersion blender to get that perfect hearty texture that feels so comforting in every spoonful.
Step 7: Final Touches and Garnish
Remove the bay leaves and ladle the soup into bowls. Top with freshly chopped parsley to brighten things up and add a fresh herbaceous note that complements the richness of the soup splendidly.
How to Serve Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is a classic way to finish your soup, but don’t stop there! A dollop of sour cream or a few shreds of sharp cheddar cheese can take each bite to a new level of creaminess and indulgence. If you like a bit of heat, a dash of chili flakes on top adds a surprising kick.
Side Dishes
This robust soup pairs beautifully with warm crusty bread or soft dinner rolls that you can dunk right into the broth. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness and keeps the meal balanced and fresh.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef Recipe in a hollowed-out bread bowl. It makes for a charming presentation and adds an extra carb element that your guests will love. Another idea is to top the soup with crispy fried onions or crumbled bacon to add contrasting textures and flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef Recipe tastes even better the next day once the flavors have settled. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and it will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Be sure to cool the soup to room temperature before refrigerating.
Freezing
This soup freezes wonderfully, making it an excellent meal prep choice. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight to ensure even reheating and preserve the soup’s texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftover or frozen soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup has thickened too much in the fridge, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up without compromising flavor.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative. Just keep in mind that the soup’s flavor will be milder, so you might want to increase the spices slightly to keep that perfect depth.
Do I need to soak the lentils before cooking?
No soaking is necessary for green or brown lentils; just rinse them well before adding to the soup. This saves time and keeps the lentils hearty and intact during cooking.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. For added protein, try adding more lentils or even some chopped mushrooms for a meaty texture.
How spicy is this soup with smoked paprika?
Smoked paprika adds a rich smokiness and a mild warmth but isn’t spicy hot. You can skip it or add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you prefer more heat.
What’s the best way to thicken the soup if it’s too thin?
Partially mashing a scoop or two of lentils right in the pot is the perfect natural thickener. Another option is to simmer the soup uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a bowl of Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef Recipe that feels like homemade comfort in every bite. With its rich flavors, wholesome ingredients, and satisfying texture, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep on hand for those cozy nights in. Give it a try, and soon enough, this soup will be one of your favorite go-to meals for family dinners or a simple, nourishing treat just for yourself.
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Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and nutritious Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef, featuring tender lentils simmered in a flavorful broth with aromatic vegetables and spices, perfect for a filling meal any day.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Vegetables
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
Legumes and Liquids
- 1 1/2 cups dried lentils (green or brown), rinsed
- 6 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
Spices and Herbs
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot with the beef. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
- Add Spices and Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried oregano, ground cumin, and smoked paprika if using. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, allowing the spices to bloom.
- Add Lentils and Liquids: Add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes with their juices, and beef broth to the pot. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer the Soup: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and add the bay leaves. Cover and let the soup simmer for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender and the flavors meld together.
- Adjust Seasoning and Texture: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. For a thicker texture, partially mash some lentils using a potato masher or immersion blender.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the bay leaves. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving hot.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Using vegetable broth instead of beef broth makes the soup lighter and suitable for vegetarians if you omit the beef.
- Smoked paprika is optional but adds a subtle smoky flavor that enhances the dish.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, partially mashing lentils helps achieve a creamier consistency without adding cream.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freeze well for up to 3 months.
