Vegetable Hamburger Soup

### Instructions:

#### 1. **Cook the Ground Beef**:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary, then season the meat with a pinch of salt and pepper.

#### 2. **Sauté the Vegetables**:
Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot with the ground beef. Stir occasionally, cooking for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.

#### 3. **Add the Broth and Tomatoes**:
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, bay leaf, thyme, and basil. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

#### 4. **Simmer the Soup**:
Add the diced potatoes, zucchini (if using), and frozen peas to the soup. Simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.

#### 5. **Optional: Add Pasta**:
If you’re using pasta, add it to the soup during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Be sure to check the pasta for doneness before serving, as cooking times may vary depending on the type of pasta used.

#### 6. **Season and Serve**:
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or dried herbs if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

## Tips for the Best Vegetable Hamburger Soup

– **Use Lean Ground Meat**: For a healthier option, use lean ground beef, turkey, or chicken. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can also use ground lamb or pork.

– **Vegetable Variations**: Feel free to add other vegetables you enjoy or have on hand, such as green beans, corn, or parsnips. Kale or spinach can also be added in the last few minutes of cooking for a boost of green.

– **Make it Spicy**: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

– **Add Beans**: For extra fiber and protein, you can add a can of beans, such as kidney beans, navy beans, or chickpeas. Drain and rinse the beans before adding them to the soup.

– **Make Ahead and Freeze**: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days, and it’s even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months—just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.

## Conclusion

Vegetable Hamburger Soup is the kind of meal that satisfies on every level: it’s easy to make, filled with wholesome ingredients, and comforting with every spoonful. Whether you’re looking to feed a crowd or enjoy a simple, nutritious dinner with your family, this one-pot soup is sure to hit the spot. With endless variations to suit your tastes, it’s a recipe you’ll return to time and time again. So grab your ingredients, whip up a batch, and enjoy the warming flavors of this hearty, homemade soup.