If you’re craving a cozy, nourishing meal that hits all the right notes, this Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a rich, protein-packed bowl of warmth where tender lentils meet savory browned beef, balanced perfectly with fragrant spices and fresh vegetables. This soup not only satisfies your hunger but also wraps you in comfort with every spoonful. Whether you’re feeding a family or just treating yourself, this recipe is a simple yet deeply satisfying dish that’s sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step toward deliciousness, and these simple essentials are what make the Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef Recipe truly come alive. Each component plays a crucial role, from the hearty protein and earthy lentils to the vibrant veggies and aromatic spices, creating layers of flavor and texture.
- Olive oil: Adds a silky base to brown the beef and sauté vegetables for deep flavor.
- Ground beef: Provides rich protein and a meaty heartiness that makes the soup filling.
- Small onion (diced): Offers a subtle sweetness and depth when cooked down.
- Carrots (diced): Bring natural sweetness and a pleasant bite to the dish.
- Celery stalks (diced): Add a fresh, slightly peppery crunch for balance.
- Garlic (minced): Infuses the soup with aromatic warmth and zest.
- Dried thyme: Lends an earthy herbal note that complements the beef perfectly.
- Smoked paprika: Introduces a smoky undertone that enhances richness.
- Ground cumin: Adds a gentle spice and complexity without overwhelming.
- Brown or green lentils (rinsed): The soup’s star, offering fiber and a tender texture that soaks up flavors beautifully.
- Diced tomatoes (canned): Bring a bright acidity and subtle sweetness to balance the savory elements.
- Beef or vegetable broth: The flavorful liquid foundation that simmers everything together.
- Bay leaf: Infuses a gentle herbal aroma during cooking for depth.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all flavors into harmony.
- Red wine vinegar or lemon juice (optional): A splash at the end brightens the soup with zesty freshness.
- Chopped parsley (optional garnish): Adds a pop of color and lightness as a finishing touch.
How to Make Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until nicely browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks for that perfect crumbly texture. This step builds the foundation of meaty flavor that will shine throughout the soup. If there’s excess fat, drain it to keep the broth rich but not greasy.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Next, toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Let them cook gently for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies start to soften and release their natural sweetness. This soft bed of vegetables contributes both body and sweetness to the hearty lentil soup with ground beef recipe, making every spoonful satisfying.
Step 3: Add Aromatics and Spices
Now, stir in the minced garlic along with dried thyme, smoked paprika, and ground cumin. Cook for another minute until everything is fragrant and the spices bloom, enveloping the kitchen in a mouthwatering aroma. These seasonings build the character that makes this soup so unforgettable.
Step 4: Combine Lentils, Tomatoes, and Broth
Add the rinsed lentils, canned diced tomatoes with their juice, beef or vegetable broth, and the bay leaf. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and perfectly cooked.
Step 5: Final Touches and Seasoning
Once the lentils have softened, remove the bay leaf. Taste the soup and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. For an optional bright twist, stir in a tablespoon of red wine vinegar or lemon juice. This subtle acidity lifts all the flavors, making the Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef Recipe fresh and vibrant on the palate.
How to Serve Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like chopped fresh parsley bring a lovely burst of color and a hint of herbal brightness that contrasts beautifully with the soup’s rich flavors. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for an extra creamy finish that makes each spoonful even more indulgent.
Side Dishes
Serve this hearty soup alongside crusty bread or a warm baguette for dipping into the delicious broth. A fresh green salad or roasted vegetables also complement it well, providing extra texture and freshness to round out your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a welcoming dinner party or cozy night in, ladle the soup into rustic bowls and top with a swirl of olive oil or a drizzle of chili oil for some heat. Serving in individual mini crock pots or bread bowls can add a fun and inviting touch that delights your guests and elevates this humble soup to a star dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup holds up beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container to keep flavors fresh and textures intact, making it perfect for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, this Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef Recipe freezes well for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving room for the soup to expand, so you can enjoy a homemade meal anytime without fuss.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If it has thickened in the fridge or freezer, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it back up to the perfect consistency.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works well in this recipe. It will produce a slightly lighter flavor but still pair wonderfully with the lentils and spices.
Are brown and green lentils interchangeable?
Yes, both brown and green lentils hold their shape nicely and work well in this soup. They have a similar earthy flavor and texture, so feel free to use whichever you prefer or have on hand.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, swap out the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or skip it entirely. Using vegetable broth instead of beef broth will keep the flavors balanced and satisfying.
How spicy is the soup?
This soup is mild with warm, aromatic spices like smoked paprika and cumin adding depth without heat. If you like a bit of kick, add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes to taste.
What’s the best way to thicken the soup if desired?
If you want a thicker consistency, mash some of the lentils with the back of a spoon or blend a cup of soup and stir it back in. This keeps the texture hearty without losing any flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a bowl of Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef Recipe that comforts you from the inside out. It’s a perfect weeknight meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor or nourishment. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover just how wonderfully simple it is to make a satisfying, home-cooked soup that feels like a warm hug. Grab your ingredients, and let this hearty soup become a new favorite in your recipe collection!
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Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef is a comforting and protein-rich one-pot meal perfect for any season. This savory soup combines tender lentils, ground beef, and a medley of vegetables simmered in flavorful broth with warming spices. Easy to prepare on the stovetop, it offers a balanced and satisfying dish that warms both body and soul.
Ingredients
Meat and Oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Spices and Herbs
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Lentils and Liquids
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 6 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed to prevent greasiness.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften and become fragrant.
- Add Aromatics and Spices: Stir in minced garlic, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and ground cumin. Cook for 1 minute until the spices release their aroma and flavors meld.
- Add Lentils and Liquids: Pour in the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes with their juice, broth, and add the bay leaf. Stir everything to combine evenly.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 30 to 35 minutes, or until lentils are tender and flavors have developed.
- Season and Finish: Remove the bay leaf. Taste the soup and season with salt and black pepper as needed. For added brightness, stir in a splash of red wine vinegar or lemon juice if desired.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley if using. Enjoy with crusty bread for a well-rounded meal.
Notes
- Ground beef can be substituted with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- The soup stores well and tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to meld.
- Serving with crusty bread makes it a complete and satisfying meal.
