Hamburger Rice Soup Recipe – Hearty Comfort in a Bowl

Hamburger Rice Soup Recipe is the kind of meal that wraps you up like your favorite blanket on a cold evening. There’s something magical about ground beef mingling with rice and tender veggies in a savory broth. It’s cozy, satisfying, and just the right kind of simple—perfect for busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without fuss. This Hamburger Rice Soup Recipe brings nostalgia to the table, reminding you of grandma’s kitchen but with an easy modern twist.

Table of Contents

What is Hamburger Rice Soup?

Hamburger Rice Soup is a hearty, one-pot meal made with ground beef, white rice, diced tomatoes, and vegetables like potatoes, onions, and carrots simmered in seasoned broth. The flavors meld beautifully over an hour of gentle simmering, creating a rich, flavorful soup that’s filling without being heavy. It’s perfect for those times when you’re craving comfort food that’s easy to make and full of nutrition. Think of it as a cousin to Crock-Pot Hamburger Potato Soup but with a wholesome rice twist.

Reasons to Try Hamburger Rice Soup

Why make Hamburger Rice Soup? First, it’s inexpensive—made with simple pantry staples you probably already have. Second, it’s a meal that pleases everyone, from picky kids to hungry adults. And third, it’s the kind of recipe that gets even better the next day. Plus, it’s flexible—use brown rice for a nutty texture, add chili flakes for heat, or toss in leftover veggies to reduce waste. If you love warm, soothing soups like Mexican Meatball Soup or Chicken Pot Pie Soup, this recipe will fit right into your rotation.

Ingredients Needed to Make Hamburger Rice Soup

When it comes to the Hamburger Rice Soup Recipe, simplicity is its superpower—but don’t let that fool you. Each ingredient plays a special role in creating that rich, homey flavor that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Below, you’ll find the breakdown of what you’ll need and why it matters, plus a few handy tips to make your soup taste restaurant-worthy.

• Ground Beef (1 pound):
  Go for lean ground beef (around 90% lean) for the best balance of flavor and richness without making the broth greasy. If you’re feeling adventurous, try substituting half the beef with ground turkey or even Italian sausage for a new twist. For a similar comfort-style dish using beef, check out our Crock-Pot Hamburger Potato Soup — it’s another hearty winner.
• Diced Tomatoes (14.5 ounces):
  Use canned diced tomatoes with their juices. They add just the right touch of acidity and a subtle sweetness that balances the richness of the beef. If you like your soup with a deeper tomato flavor, toss in a tablespoon of tomato paste. Fire-roasted tomatoes also work wonders here for a smoky kick.
• Potatoes (2 cups, cubed):
  Potatoes bring body and comfort to this Hamburger Rice Soup Recipe. Russets or Yukon Golds are both great options because they hold up well during simmering and soak up all those savory flavors. Chop them into uniform cubes so they cook evenly. For a different spin, you can look at our Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup for more potato inspiration.
• Carrots (2, chopped):
  Carrots add a touch of sweetness and color. Slice them thinly or chop into small chunks for that perfect bite. Want a little crunch left in them? Add the carrots halfway through simmering instead of at the start.
• Onion (1, chopped):
  A classic flavor builder. Onions bring depth and aroma that anchors the soup. A yellow onion works perfectly here, but a sweet onion will give you a milder flavor if that’s what your family prefers.
• Salt (4 teaspoons):
  This may sound like a lot, but with six cups of liquid and starchy ingredients like rice and potatoes, the salt keeps everything balanced. Start with less if you’re using broth instead of water, and always taste before adding more.
• Uncooked White Rice (¼ cup):
  Long-grain white rice is ideal—it holds its shape without turning mushy. Jasmine or basmati rice can add a gentle fragrance too. As the soup simmers, the rice absorbs the broth and releases starch, naturally thickening the soup into a silky texture. For rice lovers, you might also enjoy our Mexican Chicken Rice Soup for a zesty variation.
• Ground Black Pepper (⅛ teaspoon):
  Just enough to add warmth without overwhelming the other flavors. Freshly cracked pepper makes a noticeable difference—it’s brighter and more aromatic than the pre-ground kind.
• Water (6 cups):
  This forms the base of your soup. However, if you’re after more depth of flavor, swap half (or all) of it for beef broth or vegetable stock. Homemade broth brings unbeatable richness, but store-bought low-sodium options work great too.
• Optional Add-Ins:
  • A handful of fresh parsley or basil for garnish adds a pop of color and freshness.
  • A pinch of red chili flakes or a few slices of jalapeño for a subtle kick.
  • A splash of milk or cream toward the end of cooking for a creamy variation.
  • If you prefer a vegetarian twist, skip the beef and use lentils or plant-based crumbles—similar to what’s done in our Creamy Vegan Pumpkin Wild Rice Soup.

Instructions to Make Hamburger Rice Soup Recipe (Step-by-Step Guide)

When it comes to the Hamburger Rice Soup Recipe, the magic is in the process. It’s not complicated—just cozy, comforting cooking that fills your kitchen with aromas that’ll have everyone asking, “What’s for dinner?” Below is a complete step-by-step guide that walks you through every delicious moment, from browning the beef to ladling out that first steaming bowl. Let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Gather and Prep All Ingredients

Before you even touch the stove, set yourself up for success. Lay out everything you need for the Hamburger Rice Soup Recipe—ground beef, chopped vegetables, rice, seasonings, and liquids. Having it all ready makes the cooking process smoother and stress-free. Dice your potatoes into small, even cubes (about ½ inch) so they cook evenly. Peel and chop your carrots, and finely dice your onion for even flavor distribution.

Cooking Tip: Keep your chopping board clean and organized—one side for veggies, one for meat. Trust me, a tidy setup makes you feel like a Food Network pro.

If you want to see another soup recipe that benefits from careful prep work, check out our Tuscan Chicken Soup Recipe—it follows a similar “prep first, cook calmly” philosophy.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Place a large saucepan or stockpot on the stove over medium heat. Add the ground beef and start breaking it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula. The goal here is to get a nice, even browning—this step builds the base flavor of your soup. It usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes for the beef to brown completely.

As it cooks, you’ll notice it releasing fat and juices. Once the meat is browned, drain the excess fat carefully using a colander or spoon. This keeps your soup light but still flavorful.

Pro Tip: If you want a deeper, richer flavor, don’t rush the browning step. Letting the meat caramelize a little adds incredible depth to your Hamburger Rice Soup Recipe.

Step 3: Add the Aromatics and Vegetables

Now it’s time to build the flavor layers. Add your chopped onions, carrots, and potatoes directly into the pot with the browned beef. Give everything a good stir to coat the vegetables with the beef’s savory goodness. Let it cook for about 3–4 minutes until the onions become translucent and fragrant.

The carrots will start to soften slightly, releasing their natural sweetness into the pot. It’s already smelling amazing, right?

For a similar hearty veggie-based blend, take a peek at Creamy Mushroom Chicken Soup Recipe—it’s another example of how layering vegetables early gives soups their signature richness.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes, Seasonings, and Rice

Now pour in the diced tomatoes (including their juices) and stir to combine. Sprinkle in your salt and pepper, then add the uncooked rice. Mix well to make sure the rice is evenly distributed—it’s what will thicken your soup beautifully as it cooks.

This is a great time to personalize your Hamburger Rice Soup Recipe. Want a kick? Add chili flakes or a touch of smoked paprika. Craving something earthy? Toss in a bay leaf or dried thyme.

If you love playing with spice and warmth, you’ll enjoy our Creamy Chicken Tortilla Soup, where spices take center stage.

Step 5: Pour in the Water (or Broth)

Add 6 cups of water to the pot—or, for richer flavor, swap some or all of it for beef broth. Stir everything together thoroughly to blend the ingredients. The liquid should just cover the veggies and rice.

Turn up the heat to high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover partially with a lid, and let it simmer slowly.

This simmering stage is where all the magic happens. Over the next hour, the flavors blend, the rice softens, and the soup transforms into a thick, savory masterpiece.

Step 6: Simmer Low and Slow (The Flavor Phase)

Let your Hamburger Rice Soup Recipe simmer for about 60 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom. During this time, the vegetables become tender, and the rice absorbs all that flavorful broth.

You’ll notice the soup thickening slightly—this is exactly what you want. It should have a hearty, stew-like texture without feeling heavy. If it gets too thick, just add a splash of water or broth.

Flavor Builder: Add a bay leaf during simmering, then remove it before serving. It gives the broth a subtle depth that tastes like it’s been simmering all day.

Step 7: Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Once the soup is done simmering, it’s tasting time! Grab a spoon and test for salt and pepper levels. If it feels a bit flat, a small pinch of salt or a splash of soy sauce can wake up the flavors.

This is your moment to personalize the Hamburger Rice Soup Recipe—some like it mild and savory, others prefer bold and peppery. Add fresh herbs like parsley or basil right at the end for a pop of freshness.

If you’re a fan of adding creamy touches, take inspiration from our Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Soup and swirl in a tablespoon or two of cream just before serving.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle your finished Hamburger Rice Soup into warm bowls. Serve it hot, ideally with a slice of crusty bread or homemade biscuits. Sprinkle a few fresh herbs on top or a dusting of grated cheese if you’re feeling indulgent.

If you’re cooking for a family, pair it with a simple salad or even a small casserole dish like our Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole for the ultimate comfort meal combo.

Step 9: Leftover Love

This soup only gets better the next day. The rice continues to absorb flavor overnight, making it thicker and heartier. When reheating, add a bit of broth or water to thin it out to your desired consistency.

Store any leftovers in airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. It’s the kind of meal that saves your busy weeknights—and still tastes like you made it fresh that day.

Step 10: Make It Your Own

This Hamburger Rice Soup Recipe is endlessly flexible. You can switch up the rice for barley or quinoa, add corn for a touch of sweetness, or toss in leftover veggies that need rescuing from your fridge. You can even make it vegetarian by swapping the beef for lentils or mushrooms—something similar to our Mushroom Vegetable Rice Soup.

Cooking should never be rigid—it’s about adapting to what you have and creating something delicious that feels like you.

What to Serve with Hamburger Rice Soup

This soup pairs wonderfully with warm bread, biscuits, or even a side salad. A simple Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup complements it beautifully if you’re going for a soup-and-soup combo night (yes, that’s a thing). For heartier dinners, try serving it with Stuffing Chicken Casserole or Cheesy Hamburger Rice Casserole for a cozy, comforting meal.

Key Tips for Making Hamburger Rice Soup

1. Use lean beef: It reduces the fat content and keeps the broth clean.
2. Don’t rush the simmer: The longer it simmers, the richer it tastes.
3. Customize your veggies: Celery or peas make great additions.
4. Go for broth: Swap water for beef or vegetable broth for deeper flavor.
5. Leftovers rock: The soup thickens overnight as rice absorbs the liquid, so thin it with water or broth when reheating.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Hamburger Rice Soup

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors actually improve as it sits. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. When warming it up, add a splash of water or broth to restore that perfect consistency. Gently heat it on the stovetop or microwave until piping hot.

FAQs

Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes! Just cook it longer or pre-cook it before adding to the soup.

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Brown the beef first, then toss everything into your slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.

Q: How do I make it vegetarian?
Swap ground beef for lentils or plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth.

Q: Can I freeze Hamburger Rice Soup?
Yes, it freezes beautifully—just cool it fully before freezing.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason this Hamburger Rice Soup Recipe is a family favorite—it’s warm, hearty, and feels like a hug in a bowl. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but tasty enough to serve guests. Whether you’re feeding kids after soccer practice or cozying up on a rainy day, this soup checks all the boxes. Try it once, and it’ll find its way into your regular rotation.

Visit our Pinterest for regular slow cooker recipe updates, or join our Facebook discussions where cooking fans exchange their favorite hearty meal ideas.

Print