Slow Cooker Italian chicken hamburger Soup

Looking for the best easy soup ideas? This slow cooker Italian chicken hamburger soup is simple, healthy, and full of flavor! Perfect for meal prep, weeknight dinners, or cozy family nights. It’s the best one-pot comfort food with pasta, beef, and veggies in a savory broth everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare – Just set it and forget it! This recipe requires minimal hands-on time, letting your slow cooker do all the work.
• Flavorful – The combination of ground beef, fresh vegetables, and Italian herbs creates a hearty flavor profile that warms the soul.
• Versatile – Customize with your favorite vegetables or swap out the beef for another protein. It’s perfect for using up pantry staples!
• Meal Prep Friendly – Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week. It freezes well for quick meals later on.
• Family Approved – Kids and adults alike will love this comforting soup. It’s sure to become a family favorite!

Tools and Preparation

To make this slow cooker Italian chicken hamburger soup successfully, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and enhance your overall experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Skillet
• Chopping board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker – Allows you to cook the soup low and slow, enhancing flavors without constant supervision.
• Skillet – Perfect for browning the beef before adding it to the slow cooker, which adds depth to the dish.
• Chopping board & Knife – Essential for prepping your vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 pound ground beef
• 3 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced

For Flavoring

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For Texture

• 3/4 cup small pasta (like ditalini)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Garnish (Optional)

• Fresh parsley
• Parmesan cheese

How to Make Slow Cooker Italian chicken hamburger Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef

• Start by heating a skillet over medium heat.
• Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
• Drain any excess fat before transferring it to your slow cooker.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

• Chop your carrots, celery, onion, and garlic as per the instructions.
• Place these chopped veggies into the slow cooker over the browned beef.

Step 3: Incorporate Liquids

• Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juice.
• Add tomato paste, beef broth, and Italian seasoning. Mix everything well.

Step 4: Season

• Sprinkle salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
• Cover the slow cooker with its lid.

Step 5: Cook

• Set your slow cooker on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

Step 6: Add Pasta

• About 30 minutes before serving time, stir in small pasta.
• Allow it to cook until tender.

Step 7: Garnish

• Once done cooking, serve hot garnished with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Italian chicken hamburger Soup

Serving your slow cooker Italian chicken hamburger soup can elevate the dining experience for you and your family. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious dish.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve warm, crusty bread on the side for dipping. A baguette or sourdough loaf works wonderfully.

Over Rice

• For a heartier meal, ladle the soup over a bed of cooked rice. This adds extra texture and makes it more filling.

Topped with Cheese

• Sprinkle shredded cheese on top before serving for a creamy finish. Cheddar or mozzarella pairs well with the flavors.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Pair with a fresh garden salad. The crisp veggies will balance the warm, hearty soup perfectly.

In Bread Bowls

• For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This adds an interactive element to the meal.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top each bowl with fresh parsley or basil for an added layer of flavor and color.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Italian chicken hamburger Soup

To make your slow cooker Italian chicken hamburger soup even better, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and lean ground beef enhance flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving; you can always add more salt or pepper to suit your palate.
• Experiment with Vegetables: Add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for variety and color.
• Use Homemade Broth: For richer flavor, use homemade beef broth instead of store-bought options.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for 10 minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld beautifully.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for later use.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Italian chicken hamburger Soup

Pairing side dishes with your slow cooker Italian chicken hamburger soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice that complements the soup’s flavors while adding a crunchy texture.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make a refreshing side.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide extra nutrients and pair nicely with the soup’s heartiness.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites can be filled with cheese or vegetables, making them a flavorful addition.
5. Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons create a delightful contrast to the warm soup.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a pleasant balance of flavors alongside your dish.
7. Polenta Fries: Crispy polenta fries are both fun and delicious, perfect for dipping into the soup.
8. Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges add another comforting element that complements each bite of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be fun, but mistakes are common. Here are some pitfalls to avoid while making your Slow Cooker Italian chicken hamburger soup.

• Bold Preparation: Skipping the browning step for the ground beef can lead to a less flavorful soup. Always brown the meat first to enhance its taste.
• Bold Ingredient Changes: Using fresh vegetables instead of frozen may alter cooking times. If you prefer fresh, adjust the timings accordingly.
• Bold Overcrowding: Adding too many ingredients at once can prevent even cooking. Stick to the recipe proportions for best results.
• Bold Seasoning Oversight: Forgetting to season properly can leave your soup bland. Taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking for optimal flavor.
• Bold Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking on high instead of low may lead to overcooked pasta. Follow the recommended timings for perfect texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Slow Cooker Italian chicken hamburger Soup

• Cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will keep for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Italian chicken hamburger Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Slow Cooker Italian chicken hamburger soup.

Can I use different types of meat in the soup?

Yes! You can swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken if preferred.

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Italian chicken hamburger soup?

It takes about 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in your slow cooker.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies like bell peppers or zucchini.

Is this soup gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free pasta, this soup can easily be made gluten-free!

What should I serve with Slow Cooker Italian chicken hamburger soup?

This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Italian chicken hamburger soup is a delightful blend of flavors that brings comfort and warmth. It’s versatile, allowing you to customize ingredients based on what you have at home. Try this recipe for an easy weeknight dinner that everyone will enjoy!