If there’s one thing Ree Drummond, also known as The Pioneer Woman, does best, it’s crafting hearty, comforting meals that feel like a hug in a bowl. Her Hamburger Soup is already a beloved classic-a no-fuss, nourishing dish that makes weeknight dinners easy and cozy. But when you take it up a notch with O’Brien potatoes (those colorful, diced potatoes with peppers and onions), something magical happens. You get a soup that’s extra flavorful, slightly rustic, and full of chunky texture without all the peeling and chopping fuss.
This isn’t just a throw-it-together kind of soup; it’s a sit at the table, inhale deeply, and feel your shoulders relax type of recipe. Think of it as the crossroad between stew-like comfort and veggie-packed lightness. And if you’re a fan of meals that taste even better the next day, you’re about to find a new favorite.
Ree Drummond Hamburger Soup With O’brien Potatoes Recipe
At its heart, this soup is ground beef simmered with vegetables, broth, and seasonings. The twist is that instead of plain diced potatoes, we’re dropping in a bag of frozen O’Brien potatoes. That means less prep and more flavor-because the potatoes already come with peppers and onions, adding both convenience and a punch of color.
It’s one of those meals that checks all the boxes:
- Quick enough for a busy night.
- Comforting enough for a Sunday supper.
- Nutritious enough to keep on rotation.
- Flexible enough to play around with.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to bring Ree’s style of hamburger soup to life with the O’Brien potato twist:
- Ground beef (1 to 1 ½ pounds): The hearty base of the soup.
- Onion (1 large, diced): Sweetens up as it cooks and builds flavor.
- Garlic (2-3 cloves, minced): Adds depth and a touch of sharpness.
- Frozen O’Brien potatoes (1 bag, about 28-32 oz): The star ingredient-diced potatoes with peppers and onions.
- Carrots (2-3, sliced): For sweetness and color.
- Celery (2-3 ribs, diced): Balances everything out with freshness.
- Canned tomatoes (1 can, 28 oz, diced or crushed): A key flavor base.
- Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): Richens the tomato flavor.
- Beef broth (6-8 cups): The soup’s body and backbone.
- Bay leaves (2): A gentle herbal note.
- Italian seasoning (1 tablespoon): Brings a medley of herbs.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Don’t be shy-it makes or breaks a soup.
- Worcestershire sauce (1-2 tablespoons): Adds savory depth.
- Olive oil or butter (2 tablespoons): For sautéing.
Optional extras:
- A pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a kick.
- A sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish.
- A handful of frozen peas or corn if you want more veggies.
Cooking Instructions
Here’s how to bring everything together, step by step:
-
Brown The Beef
- In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink.
- Drain excess grease if needed.
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Build The Flavor Base
- Add diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until vegetables soften and become fragrant.
-
Season The Pot
- Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Let the tomato paste cook for a minute-it deepens the flavor.
-
Add Liquids And Simmer
- Pour in the canned tomatoes (with juices) and beef broth.
- Drop in the bay leaves.
- Stir, bring to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer.
-
Add Potatoes
- Stir in the frozen O’Brien potatoes. No need to thaw them first.
- Let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the flavors meld.
-
Taste And Adjust
- Check the seasoning-add more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce if needed.
-
Serve
- Ladle into bowls, sprinkle with parsley, and serve with crusty bread or crackers.
Ingredient Insights
Let’s zoom in on why each ingredient matters:
- Ground beef: Stick with 80/20 for flavor, but if you want lighter soup, go leaner. You could also swap for ground turkey or chicken.
- O’Brien potatoes: These are the shortcut stars-already diced, already mixed with onions and peppers. They add heartiness and cut prep time in half.
- Beef broth: Use low-sodium if you want more control over saltiness. A mix of broth and water works if you’re short on stock.
- Tomatoes & paste: Together, they create richness and that perfect tomato base without overpowering the beef.
- Seasonings: Italian seasoning is versatile, but you could also add smoked paprika or thyme for a different twist.
- Worcestershire sauce: The unsung hero-it layers in umami without being overwhelming.
Expert Tips
Want to take this soup from good to oh-my-goodness-this-is-delicious? Here’s how:
- Brown the beef deeply. Don’t rush it-let it caramelize a little before adding veggies. That’s where flavor develops.
- Deglaze the pot. After sautéing, add a splash of broth or even a bit of red wine to scrape up those browned bits. Flavor gold!
- Don’t overcook the potatoes. They should be tender, not mushy. Keep an eye on them during the simmer.
- Make it ahead. Like most soups, it tastes even better the next day after flavors marry in the fridge.
- Double the batch. It freezes beautifully-just leave out the potatoes if you’re planning to freeze, and add them fresh when reheating.
Recipe Variations
This soup is endlessly customizable. Try these variations depending on your mood:
- Spicy Kick: Add diced green chiles, hot sauce, or a teaspoon of chili powder.
- Tex-Mex Style: Swap Italian seasoning for cumin and smoked paprika; top with cheddar and tortilla strips.
- Vegetable Overload: Toss in zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Cheesy Comfort: Stir in shredded cheddar or Parmesan just before serving for a creamy twist.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace potatoes with riced cauliflower or chopped zucchini.
- Bean Boost: Add a can of kidney beans, black beans, or chickpeas to bulk it up.
Final Words
There’s something timeless about Ree Drummond’s approach to cooking: keep it simple, hearty, and family-friendly. This Hamburger Soup with O’Brien Potatoes is exactly that-comfort food you can count on, but with enough flexibility to make it your own. Whether you serve it with warm bread, a side salad, or just a big spoon, it’s the kind of meal that makes a chilly night or a stressful day feel instantly better.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For Ree Drummond’s Hamburger Soup With O’Brien Potatoes?
The main ingredients typically include ground beef, O’Brien potatoes (diced potatoes with green and red bell peppers), onions, garlic, beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, frozen corn, seasonings such as salt, pepper, and paprika, and optional fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.
How Long Does It Take To Make This Soup From Start To Finish?
Preparation and cooking time together usually take about 45 to 60 minutes. Browning the beef takes 5-10 minutes, sautéing vegetables another 5 minutes, and simmering the soup until the potatoes are tender generally takes 25-35 minutes.
Can I Make This Soup In A Slow Cooker?
Yes, after browning the ground beef and sautéing the onions and garlic, you can transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the potatoes are tender and flavors are well combined.
Is It Possible To Use Fresh Potatoes Instead Of Frozen O’Brien Potatoes?
Yes, you can use fresh diced potatoes along with diced bell peppers. Make sure to adjust the cooking time since fresh potatoes may take slightly longer to become tender than frozen O’Brien potatoes.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead Of Time?
Absolutely. This soup actually tastes better the next day because the flavors have time to meld. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
What Are Some Tips For Making The Soup Thicker?
To thicken the soup, you can mash some of the potatoes against the side of the pot, add a slurry of cornstarch and water, or allow the soup to simmer uncovered for several minutes to reduce excess liquid.
Can I Substitute The Ground Beef With Another Protein?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives can be used. Adjust cooking times as needed to ensure the protein is fully cooked and the soup is flavorful.
Is This Soup Gluten-free?
The basic recipe is naturally gluten-free if all ingredients, including broth and seasonings, are confirmed to be gluten-free. Be cautious with pre-packaged or processed ingredients that may contain hidden gluten.
How Can I Make This Soup Spicier?
Add diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of hot sauce while cooking. You can also use spicy sausage in place of some of the ground beef for extra heat.
What Is The Best Way To Serve Ree Drummond’s Hamburger Soup With O’Brien Potatoes?
Serve hot with crusty bread or cornbread for dipping. Garnish with fresh parsley or shredded cheese if desired. It pairs well with a simple side salad for a complete meal.