If you’re craving a comforting meal that’s both nourishing and packed with flavor, this Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender lentils, savory ground beef, and a colorful mix of vegetables simmered in a fragrant broth that’s as satisfying as a warm embrace. Rich, filling, and easy to customize, this soup is perfect for cozy nights in or feeding a crowd, making it one of those go-to dishes that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that each bring something special to the pot. From the robust flavor of ground beef to the earthy lentils and fresh vegetables, every element plays a vital role in creating that comforting depth of taste and texture.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides rich, savory flavor and hearty protein to make the soup satisfying.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds natural sweetness and a foundational layer of taste once softened.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth that enhances all the other flavors beautifully.
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced: Offers a subtle sweetness and vibrant orange color.
- 2 celery stalks, diced: Adds a mild, refreshing crunch and depth in the savory profile.
- 1 1/2 cups dried lentils (green or brown), rinsed: The star ingredient delivering fiber, texture, and earthiness.
- 6 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth): The flavorful liquid base that simmers everything together harmoniously.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes: Offers acidity and a juicy pop to balance the richness.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Provides subtle herbal notes for complexity.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a warm, slightly bitter depth to the mix.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: A touch of earthiness with a hint of smokiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional): Introduces a smoky dimension that elevates the whole soup.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning to bring all flavors into balance.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing and adding a silky mouthfeel.
- 2 bay leaves: Infuse the broth with subtle aromatic complexity during simmering.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds freshness and a pop of bright green color just before serving.
How to Make Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef Recipe
Step 1: Browning the Ground Beef
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add your ground beef and cook it until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This step is crucial for developing rich flavor and a satisfying texture. Once fully cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the soup hearty but not greasy.
Step 2: Softening the Vegetables
Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery directly into the pot with the ground beef. Allow these vegetables to cook for about five minutes, stirring occasionally. This softening process releases their natural sweetness and creates the aromatic base for your soup.
Step 3: Adding Aromatics and Spices
Stir in the minced garlic along with dried thyme, oregano, cumin, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Cook everything for another minute or two until the spices become fragrant. This step unlocks the full essence of the herbs and spices, setting the stage for a deeply flavorful broth.
Step 4: Introducing Lentils, Tomatoes, and Broth
Now, add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes with their juices, and the beef broth to the pot. Stir everything together to blend those flavors. Bring the mixture up to a boil over medium-high heat; this will help the lentils start softening while melding all the ingredients.
Step 5: Slow Simmer to Perfection
Reduce the heat to low and tuck in the bay leaves before covering the pot. Let everything simmer gently for 30 to 40 minutes. This slow cook allows the lentils to soften fully and the flavors to harmonize beautifully. Don’t forget to stir now and then to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Final Seasoning and Texture Adjustments
Taste your soup and season with salt and pepper as necessary. If you prefer a thicker, heartier consistency, partially mash some of the lentils using a potato masher or an immersion blender right in the pot. This adds creaminess without losing the lovely texture.
Step 7: Serving with Fresh Parsley
Once the lentils are tender and your soup tastes just right, remove the bay leaves. Ladle the Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef Recipe into bowls and sprinkle generously with freshly chopped parsley to add a fresh burst of color and flavor.
How to Serve Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic choice for garnish, but feel free to add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for extra richness. A drizzle of good olive oil or a few chili flakes can also elevate the flavors wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, warm pita, or soft dinner rolls to soak up every last drop. A simple side salad or roasted vegetables round out the meal perfectly and add more color and nutrients to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your hearty lentil soup in rustic bowls for a cozy, homey feel. For a fun twist, try bread bowls as edible containers or serve alongside garlic croutons and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added texture and flavor dimension.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef Recipe in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy this comforting meal multiple times without extra effort.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully. Cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, making it a perfect meal prep option for busy days ahead.
Reheating
To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You can also use a microwave on medium power, heating in intervals until piping hot. Add a splash of broth or water if it has thickened too much during storage.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with extra vegetables or plant-based protein like mushrooms or crumbled tofu, and use vegetable broth. The lentils will still provide that wonderful texture and heartiness.
What type of lentils work best?
Green or brown lentils are ideal for this recipe because they hold their shape well during cooking. Red lentils tend to break down more and create a stew-like texture rather than distinct lentils.
Is it possible to make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, just brown the beef and sauté the vegetables beforehand, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until lentils are tender.
How do I adjust the seasoning if the soup tastes bland?
Try adding a bit more salt and pepper first. A splash of lemon juice or vinegar can brighten the flavors, while additional herbs or spices enhance depth. Taste frequently and add gradually to avoid overpowering.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Fresh herbs are wonderful! Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs in place of dried since fresh herbs are less concentrated. Add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their vibrant flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Hearty Lentil Soup with Ground Beef Recipe is an absolute winner when you want something both nourishing and incredibly delicious. It’s simple to prepare but so hearty and comforting that it becomes an instant favorite. I hope you’ll enjoy making it as much as I do, and it finds a welcome spot on your family’s meal rotation for many cozy dinners to come.
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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, protein-packed meal perfect for any season. Combining tender lentils and savory ground beef with aromatic herbs and vegetables, this soup is rich in flavor and easy to prepare. Simmered slowly to meld the flavors and garnished with fresh parsley, it makes a nutritious, filling dish ideal for family dinners or meal prepping.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 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 Seasonings
- 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 bay leaves
Other
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
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 and fragrant.
- Add Aromatics and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried oregano, ground cumin, and smoked paprika if using. Cook for 1-2 minutes to release their flavors.
- Add Lentils, Tomatoes, and Broth: Incorporate the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes with their juices, and beef broth into the pot. Stir well to combine everything evenly. 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 gently for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the flavors meld. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Adjust Seasoning and Texture: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your liking. For a thicker texture, partially mash some of the lentils using a potato masher or immersion blender.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the bay leaves before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Vegetarian option: omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth.
- If you prefer spicier food, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
- This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days or freezes nicely for up to 3 months.
- Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
