Growing up, my mom always made this hamburger soup when the weather turned cold. It was our family’s go-to meal that showed up like clockwork every October. The secret? V8 juice. While most people think of V8 as just a drink, my mom knew it made the perfect soup base. I remember being surprised when I found out other families weren’t using V8 in their soups – they were missing out on all that extra flavor from the vegetable juice blend. Now that I’m cooking for my own family, this recipe has become my cold-weather comfort food, and it’s just as good as I remember it being at mom’s kitchen table.
Possible Ingredient Alternatives
Minced beef can be replaced with ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives for a leaner or vegetarian option. Use the same amount and adjust cooking time as needed, as turkey may cook faster. V8 vegetable juice can be substituted with a combination of tomato juice and vegetable broth for a similar flavor profile. Use 3 cups tomato juice and 2 cups vegetable broth to replace the 46 ounces of V8. For the frozen mixed vegetables, fresh seasonal vegetables can be used instead. Choose a variety of colorful vegetables like carrots, peas, and corn, and add them to the soup about 15-20 minutes before serving to ensure proper cooking time.
| Preparation Time | 10-15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 35-40 minutes |
| Total Time | 45-55 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Easy |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 800-900
- Protein: 50-60 g
- Fat: 40-50 g
- Carbohydrates: 80-90 g
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb frozen mixed vegetables (such as Birds Eye brand)
- 1 medium onion (diced into 1/2-inch pieces)
- 2 cups diced potatoes
- 46 oz V8 vegetable juice (original flavor for best results)
Step 1: Cook the Beef and Onions
Start by browning the ground beef and onion in a large pot or skillet over medium heat.
As the beef cooks, break it into small pieces using a spoon or spatula.
Continue cooking until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are translucent.
Step 2: Season the Meat Mixture
Once the beef and onions are cooked, season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
Make sure to stir well so that the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the meat and onions.
Step 3: Add the Vegetables and Liquids
Add diced potatoes, V8 juice, and frozen vegetables to the pot with the seasoned beef and onions.
Stir everything together to combine the ingredients.
This will start building the flavors of the dish.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low.
Allow the soup to simmer for approximately 35 minutes, or until all the vegetables are cooked through and tender.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the soup is done cooking, serve it hot with a side of crackers or cornbread to complement the flavors.
Enjoy your hearty and comforting meal!
