When life gets busy, it's a relief to have a recipe in your arsenal that's both delicious and quick to make. Our Hamburger Vegetable Soup with V8 Juice is exactly that - a warm and hearty meal that's perfect for satisfying hungry kids and adults alike. With just five simple ingredients, you can have this comforting soup on your table in no time. Plus, we've got some fantastic suggestions to make meal prep even easier and more versatile. This recipe holds a special place in my heart, as it dates back to my childhood and was one of the few things my mom and grandmother would make every year. Let's dive into the recipe and discover how easy and tasty it is, whether you prefer it with meat or as a vegetarian option, and even with a lower-carb twist. And for those who like it spicy, we have a fiery suggestion too!
Ingredients:
- For Meat Variation:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- For Vegetarian Variation:
- 1 onion, chopped
- For Lower-Carb Option (skip potatoes):
- Common Ingredients for Both Variations:
- Half a bottle of V8 juice (or Spicy V8 for those who like it hot)
- 1 two-pound bag of frozen green beans, carrots, peas, and corn
- Tony Chachere seasoning, black pepper, and seasoning salt to taste
Instructions:
**For Meat Variation:**
1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté it with the beef until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
**For Vegetarian Variation:**
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion in a little oil until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
**For Both Variations:**
3. Pour in half a bottle of V8 juice (or Spicy V8 for those who like it hot), which adds a rich tomato-based flavor to the soup. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
4. Once the soup is simmering, add the bag of frozen green beans, carrots, peas, and corn. These pre-cut veggies not only save you time but also bring a variety of flavors and textures to the soup.
5. Season your soup with Tony Chachere seasoning, black pepper, and seasoning salt to taste. These seasonings will elevate the flavor profile and give it that extra kick.
6. Let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together beautifully.
7. Serve your Hamburger Vegetable Soup with crackers or cornbread for a complete and satisfying meal. The crunch of the crackers or the sweetness of the cornbread pairs perfectly with the savory soup.
Make It Ahead:
For an even easier future meal, consider doubling the recipe. Freeze portions in airtight containers, and you'll have a convenient, homemade soup ready to go whenever you need it. Simply thaw and reheat for a quick and comforting dinner.
Variations:
Feel free to get creative with this soup! While the classic recipe is delicious, you can experiment with different ingredients to suit your preferences. Add ground beef for a hearty meat variation or skip the meat entirely for a delicious vegetarian option. If you're looking for a lower-carb option, simply skip the potatoes. Try adding bell peppers, carrots, or celery for extra flavor and nutrition. The possibilities are endless!
In just a few simple steps and with five basic ingredients, you can whip up a warm and hearty Hamburger Vegetable Soup with V8 Juice that will please the whole family, whether you prefer it with meat or as a vegetarian option, and even with a lower-carb twist. This recipe holds a special place in my heart, as it dates back to my childhood and was one of the few things my mom and grandmother would make every year. And for those who like it spicy, don't forget to use Spicy V8 for that extra kick!
Whether it's a busy weeknight or a weekend comfort meal, this recipe is a winner. Don't forget to season it with Tony Chachere seasoning, black pepper, and seasoning salt to taste for that extra burst of flavor. It's time to savor the simplicity and deliciousness of this easy-to-make soup. Enjoy, and happy cooking!