If you’ve been craving the perfect blend of comfort food and hearty nourishment, you’re going to adore this Instant Pot Hamburger Soup Recipe. It’s the kind of meal that hugs you from the inside out, combining tender ground beef with fresh vegetables and rich beef broth, all cooked quickly and easily in your Instant Pot. Whether you need a cozy family dinner or a meal prep winner, this soup delivers warming flavors and satisfying texture without a fuss. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become your go-to soup, especially on chilly evenings or busy weeknights!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Instant Pot Hamburger Soup Recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a crucial role. From the aromatic onions and celery to the hearty potatoes and savory beef, every element contributes to a balanced and vibrant soup experience.
- Olive oil: A little bit of olive oil helps sauté vegetables and adds a subtle richness to the base flavor.
- Onion (1/2 medium, chopped): Brings sweetness and depth when sautéed, creating a savory foundation.
- Celery (2 sticks, chopped): Adds a satisfying crunch and a hint of freshness for contrast.
- Extra lean ground beef (1 pound): The star protein, providing hearty texture and meaty flavor without excess fat.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Offers a fragrant aroma and a punch of taste that elevates the entire soup.
- Tomato paste (2 heaping tablespoons): Intensifies the tomato flavor and adds a lovely thickness to the broth.
- Canned diced tomatoes (28 oz with juices): Adds tanginess and vibrant color, balancing the richness of the beef.
- Beef broth (4 cups): Creates a hearty, flavorful soup base that ties all ingredients together.
- Russet potatoes (2 large, diced): Provide comforting starch that soaks up the broth and adds substance.
- Italian seasoning (1/4 teaspoon or to taste): Brings herbal warmth and complexity.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that enhance all those wonderful flavors.
How to Make Instant Pot Hamburger Soup Recipe
Step 1: Start with Sautéing Aromatics
Begin by heating your olive oil in the Instant Pot using the sauté function. Add chopped onion and celery to the pot and cook for about 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step softens the vegetables and frees up their natural sweetness, setting the stage for a deeply flavorful soup.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, toss in the ground beef and minced garlic. Cook everything together, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes until the beef turns a nice brown color. Using extra lean beef means there won’t be much fat to drain, but if you prefer a less greasy soup, you can carefully drain some before moving on. The browned bits at the bottom add great flavor, so try not to over-drain!
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
Stir in the tomato paste, allowing it to slightly cook and deepen in flavor. Then add diced tomatoes with their juices, beef broth, diced potatoes, and Italian seasoning. Giving everything a good stir now ensures that your soup will have a consistent, delicious taste in every spoonful.
Step 4: Pressure Cook to Perfection
Seal the Instant Pot lid and make sure the valve is set to “sealing.” Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. This quick cooking time magically softens the potatoes and lets all the flavors meld without losing brightness or texture.
Step 5: Release Pressure and Final Touches
As soon as the cooking time is up, carefully perform a quick pressure release. Open the lid and give the soup a good stir. Season with salt and pepper to suit your taste, and it’s ready to serve piping hot!
How to Serve Instant Pot Hamburger Soup Recipe
Garnishes
To bring this soup to the next level, consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. A dollop of sour cream or a few crushed red pepper flakes can add creaminess or a subtle kick if you’re feeling adventurous. These little touches make serving feel extra special without much effort.
Side Dishes
This Instant Pot Hamburger Soup Recipe pairs beautifully with crusty bread, garlic rolls, or even simple crackers. A side salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty soup. For a fuller meal, you could serve it with a grilled cheese sandwich or roasted vegetables on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family gathering or casual dinner party, serve the soup in mini bread bowls for an eye-catching presentation. Alternatively, ladle it over cooked rice or pasta for a unique twist that stretches the meal further. Layering in toppings like diced avocado, shredded cheese, or chopped green onions allows everyone to customize their bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve its rich flavors and prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors. Reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave will bring it back to its comforting glory.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this Instant Pot Hamburger Soup Recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, leaving a little space for expansion. Frozen soup will keep well for up to 3 months, making meal planning super convenient.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge or reheat it directly from frozen on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir frequently until it’s heated through, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much. Microwaving in shorter bursts with stirring in between also works perfectly.
FAQs
Can I make this soup without an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! You can prepare this soup on the stovetop by following the sauté and simmer steps. After browning the beef and adding all ingredients, let the soup simmer gently for about 30-40 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
Is it okay to use ground beef with higher fat content?
Yes, you can use ground beef with more fat, but you might want to drain the excess grease after browning to keep the soup from becoming too oily. The extra fat may add richness, but leaner meat keeps the dish lighter.
Can I substitute the potatoes with something else?
Definitely! If you want a lower-carb option, you can swap potatoes for cauliflower florets or diced carrots. Keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly depending on your choice.
How spicy is this soup?
This recipe is naturally mild, making it perfect for all palates. If you prefer heat, you can easily add crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne, or a dash of hot sauce during or after cooking.
Can I prepare this soup in advance and reheat it later?
Yes, this soup actually tastes even better after sitting for a day as the flavors deepen. Prepare it ahead of time, refrigerate, and simply reheat when you’re ready to enjoy a comforting bowl of warmth.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Instant Pot Hamburger Soup Recipe enough for anyone looking to bring a little warmth and homey happiness to their table. It’s quick, simple, and packed with deliciousness that the whole family will love. So, grab your Instant Pot, gather those ingredients, and get ready for a soup experience you’ll want to make again and again!
