If you are looking for a comforting meal that warms both your heart and soul, this Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef Recipe is an absolute winner. Packed with earthy lentils, savory ground beef, and an array of vibrant vegetables and spices, this soup offers a rich, satisfying flavor that feels like a big warm hug on a chilly day. It’s wonderfully filling yet perfectly balanced, making it an ideal dish for weeknight dinners or cozy weekend lunches. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it might just become your new go-to soup for any time you crave something nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef Recipe lies not only in its taste but in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—whether it’s the ground beef that adds a deep umami flavor, the lentils providing wholesome protein and texture, or the medley of fresh vegetables that brings color and natural sweetness. Here’s everything you need to gather before you start cooking:
- 1 lb ground beef: Choose lean or regular depending on your preference for richness and fat content.
- 1 medium onion, diced: The sweet base for building layers of flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth with a gentle spice kick.
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced: Bring natural sweetness and a touch of earthiness.
- 2 celery stalks, diced: Adds freshness and a subtle crunch.
- 1 1/2 cups dried lentils (green or brown), rinsed: Hearty and nutritious, the heart of this soup.
- 6 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth): Creates the rich, savory liquid base that ties everything together.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes: Injects tangy brightness and a pop of color.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Earthy, herbaceous notes to complement the beef.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds warmth and subtle bitterness to balance flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: Gives a mild smoky earthiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional): A hint of smoky depth that elevates the dish.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors to life.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing and enhancing flavor.
- 2 bay leaves: Infuse the soup with subtle herbal complexity.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Brightens the soup visually and adds fresh herbiness.
How to Make Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add your ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. You want it to brown beautifully and cook all the way through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Once done, drain any excess fat if needed to keep the soup from being greasy, but leave enough to carry the rich flavors forward.
Step 2: Soften the Vegetables
Next, toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery right into the pot with the browned beef. These vegetables will soften and release their sweetness as they cook for about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally—it’s the base for the soulful depth that makes this soup feel truly homemade.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices
Now it’s time to bring on the aromatics. Stir in the minced garlic along with dried thyme, oregano, cumin, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the kitchen fills with fragrant, mouth-watering scents. This step builds layers of flavor that make this soup anything but ordinary.
Step 4: Combine Lentils, Tomatoes, and Broth
Add the rinsed lentils to the pot, followed by the can of diced tomatoes with their juices, and then pour in the beef broth. Give everything a good stir to combine all those wonderful ingredients. Turn the heat up to bring the soup to a rolling boil—it won’t take long.
Step 5: Simmer and Let Flavors Meld
Once boiling, lower the heat to a gentle simmer and add the bay leaves. Cover the pot and let everything cook for 30 to 40 minutes. During this time, the lentils will soften and the flavors will fellowship beautifully. Give it an occasional stir to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom.
Step 6: Season and Adjust Texture
When the lentils are tender and the soup smells irresistible, taste to see if it needs any salt or pepper. If you want a thicker consistency, gently mash a portion of the lentils with a potato masher or an immersion blender—this trick boosts the heartiness and mouthfeel of the soup.
Step 7: Final Touches and Serve
Remove the bay leaves—they’ve done their job. Ladle the steaming soup into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley. That bright green garnish adds freshness and a pop of color that makes it look as delicious as it tastes.
How to Serve Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top is classic, but you can also add a dollop of sour cream or a few shavings of Parmesan for extra creaminess and flavor contrast. A drizzle of good quality olive oil just before serving also adds a beautiful finish and aroma.
Side Dishes
Crusty artisan bread or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this soup, perfect for dipping into every last savory drop. A simple green salad with a bright vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the soup, making for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving this soup in hollowed-out rustic bread bowls can turn an ordinary meal into a fun experience. You could also add a side of roasted vegetables or an avocado salad for an extra boost of nutrition and color. Presentation matters, and this soup is versatile enough to shine in many beautiful ways.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to four days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the fresh flavors and warmth of the spices.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this hearty meal on a busy day, freezing is your best friend. Cool the soup completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It freezes well for up to three months without losing its vibrant flavors or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If it thickened too much in storage, simply add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up and restore that perfect soup consistency.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative. Just keep an eye on the fat content and adjust the oil accordingly to maintain flavor and moisture.
Do I need to soak the lentils before cooking?
No soaking is required for green or brown lentils used in this recipe. Simply rinse them well, and they’ll cook evenly within the simmering time.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply skip the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian version. You might want to add extra spices or some mushrooms for a savory depth.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
Smoked paprika adds a lovely smoky depth, but it’s optional. You can use regular paprika or omit it entirely if you prefer. The soup will still be delicious and flavorful.
How thick should the soup be?
This soup is best enjoyed with a slightly thick but still spoonable consistency. If you prefer it thinner, add more broth during cooking or while reheating. For thicker soup, mash some lentils or reduce the liquid slightly.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dish that’s both nourishing and bursting with flavor, I can’t recommend the Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef Recipe enough. It’s straightforward to make, incredibly satisfying, and offers endless comfort in every spoonful. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this soup is a true champion that will warm you up from the inside out. So go ahead, give it a try—you’ll be so happy you did!
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Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This hearty lentil soup with ground beef is a comforting and nutritious meal perfect for any day. Packed with protein-rich lentils and flavorful ground beef, combined with fresh vegetables and fragrant herbs, this soup offers a delicious balance of taste and health. It’s easy to prepare and simmered to perfection, delivering a wholesome dish that warms the soul.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
Legumes
- 1 1/2 cups dried lentils (green or brown), rinsed
Liquids
- 6 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
Seasonings and Oils
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 bay leaves
Garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
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 the 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.
- Add Lentils, Tomatoes, and Broth: 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, or until the lentils are tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally.
- Adjust Seasoning and Texture: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a thicker soup, use a potato masher or immersion blender to partially mash some of the lentils.
- Serve with Garnish: Once the lentils are tender and the soup is flavorful, remove the bay leaves. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute beef broth with vegetable broth.
- Smoked paprika is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor.
- To make the soup thicker, partially mash lentils with a potato masher or use an immersion blender.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
