Hearty Instant Pot Hamburger Soup

Welcome to the ultimate guide for creating a truly comforting and incredibly simple meal: Instant Pot Hamburger Soup. Imagine a bowl filled with rich, savory broth, tender ground beef, and a colorful medley of vegetables, all simmered to perfection in your trusty Instant Pot. This isn’t just a soup; it’s a hearty, soul-warming experience that’s perfect for busy weeknights, chilly evenings, or whenever you crave a satisfying meal that practically cooks itself.

This recipe transforms humble ground beef and pantry staples into a delicious one-pot wonder. Whether you’re a seasoned Instant Pot user or just starting your pressure cooking journey, this hamburger soup will quickly become a family favorite thanks to its ease and incredible flavor. If you often find yourself with ground beef on hand and are looking for more innovative ways to use it, you might also enjoy our popular Instant Pot Chili Mac or the delightful Instant Pot Lasagna, both offering equally satisfying and straightforward meal solutions.

As soup season arrives, there’s no better appliance than the Instant Pot to whip up a big batch of a truly hearty and filling meal. Our Instant Pot Hamburger Soup is a fantastic example of comfort food made easy. It’s loaded with flavorful ground beef, an assortment of wholesome vegetables, a rich beef stock, and vibrant crushed tomatoes. The magic begins by sautéing aromatic seasonings with fresh veggies, a crucial step that unlocks their full potential and infuses every spoonful of the soup with deep, savory notes. To make this already substantial soup even more satisfying, feel free to incorporate ingredients like tender potatoes, fluffy rice, or classic macaroni pasta directly into the pot. This recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for a nutritious and delicious dinner any day of the week.

Why Choose Instant Pot for Hamburger Soup?

The Instant Pot isn’t just a kitchen gadget; it’s a game-changer, especially when it comes to making comforting soups like this hamburger soup. Here’s why it stands out:

• Speed and Efficiency: Pressure cooking significantly reduces the cooking time. What would take hours on a stovetop can be ready in under an hour, including prep and pressure release. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick, wholesome meal.
• One-Pot Wonder: The sauté function allows you to brown the meat and soften vegetables right in the same pot, eliminating the need for multiple pans and simplifying cleanup. This truly is a dump-and-go meal once the initial sauté is done.
• Deep Flavor Development: The sealed environment of the Instant Pot allows flavors to meld and deepen more intensely than traditional cooking methods. The high pressure infuses every ingredient with the rich beef stock and seasonings, resulting in a more flavorful soup.
• Hands-Off Cooking: Once the lid is locked and the timer is set, you’re free to attend to other tasks. There’s no constant stirring or monitoring required, giving you back precious time.
• Consistent Results: The Instant Pot provides a consistent cooking environment, ensuring your soup comes out perfectly cooked every time, with tender beef and vegetables that aren’t overcooked.

Essential Ingredients for Your Shopping List

Crafting the perfect Instant Pot Hamburger Soup begins with a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. This soup strikes a wonderful balance between savory meat, fresh vegetables, and tangy tomato notes, creating a rich and satisfying broth. Here’s what you’ll need to gather to bring this comforting dish to life:

• Ground Beef: 1 lb (about 450g) of 80% lean ground beef is ideal for flavor without excessive grease.
• Olive Oil: A tablespoon for sautéing your aromatics.
• Aromatics: 3 cloves of garlic (minced), 1 medium yellow onion (chopped), and 1 small green bell pepper (chopped) form the flavorful base.
• Seasonings: 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon of ground paprika, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper will elevate the flavors. A single Bay leaf is essential for depth.
• Hearty Vegetables: 2 medium carrots (chopped), 2 celery ribs (chopped), and 1 cup of whole kernel corn add texture and nutrition.
• Tomato Base: 1 ½ cups of crushed tomatoes and an 8 oz can of tomato sauce provide the rich, savory tomato essence.
• Liquids: 2 cups of beef stock (low-sodium is recommended to control saltiness) and 3 cups of water create the perfect soup consistency.

Effortless Step-by-Step Instructions

This Instant Pot Hamburger Soup comes together with remarkable speed and minimal fuss. The process involves a quick sauté of vegetables and meat, followed by the addition of liquids and remaining ingredients, allowing your pressure cooker to do the heavy lifting. Follow these simple steps for a delicious, hearty meal:

Step 1: Sautéing the Aromatics and Browning the Meat

Begin by ensuring the stainless steel insert is properly placed in your Instant Pot. Press the “Saute” setting and wait for the display to indicate “HOT,” signaling it’s ready for cooking. Add one tablespoon of olive oil, swirling it to evenly coat the bottom of the pot. Introduce the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté these aromatics for 2 to 3 minutes until they become fragrant and slightly softened. This crucial step activates their flavors, building a robust foundation for your soup.

Next, stir in the Italian seasoning and ground paprika, cooking for another minute to allow the dry herbs to bloom and release their full aroma. This makes a significant difference in the overall flavor profile of the soup. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it browns. If using fattier beef, you may notice excess grease accumulating. To remove it, simply push the cooked beef to one side of the pot and carefully scoop out the rendered fat with a ladle. Finally, season the meat with salt and black pepper, stirring well to combine.

Step 2: Adding Liquids and Remaining Vegetables

Once the meat is browned and seasoned, press the “Cancel/Off” button on your Instant Pot. This stops the sauté function. Pour in 1 cup of beef stock and use a wooden spoon to deglaze the bottom of the pot, gently scraping up any browned bits that may have stuck. This not only prevents a “BURN” error but also incorporates those delicious caramelized flavors into your soup. Add the remaining beef stock and water.

Now, incorporate the corn, carrots, and celery, stirring gently to combine them with the liquid and meat. Finally, add the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Crucially, place the Bay leaf on top of the mixture without stirring. Layering the tomatoes on top helps prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pot during pressure cooking, which can sometimes trigger a “BURN” message.

Step 3: Pressure Cooking Your Hearty Soup

Secure the Instant Pot lid, ensuring it’s properly locked into place. Turn the sealing valve to the “Sealing” position (newer Instant Pot models often do this automatically). Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting, ensuring the pressure level is set to “HIGH.” Adjust the cooking time to 7 minutes. The Instant Pot will then begin the process of coming to pressure, which typically takes about 12 to 15 minutes, depending on the volume and temperature of the contents. Remember, a full pot takes longer to pressurize.

Once the cooking cycle is complete and the timer beeps, press “Cancel/Off.” Allow the pressure to naturally release for 5 minutes. This natural release (NPR) time helps tenderize the meat and prevents the soup from overflowing when the valve is opened. After 5 minutes, carefully switch the valve to the “Venting” position for a quick release (QR) of any remaining pressure. Once the floating pin drops, it is safe to open the lid. Always open the lid away from your face to avoid the steam. The soup will still be bubbling, so stir it gently and let it sit for about 10 minutes to cool slightly and allow the flavors to fully meld before serving. Don’t forget to remove the Bay leaf before serving.

Top Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Hamburger Soup

• Choose Your Ground Meat Wisely: For less grease, opt for at least 80% lean ground beef. This typically means you won’t need to drain off excess fat. Ground turkey is an excellent, leaner alternative if you’re looking to reduce fat content further, and it works wonderfully in this recipe. If you’ve ever forgotten to thaw your ground beef, check out our guide on Instant Pot Taco Meat for quick thawing tips that can be applied here too.
• Activate Your Seasonings: Never underestimate the power of sautéing your dry herbs and spices (like Italian seasoning and paprika) along with the garlic, onion, and bell pepper. This brief heat exposure “blooms” the spices, releasing their aromatic oils and significantly deepening the overall flavor of the soup. Simply adding them directly to the liquid can result in a less vibrant, less flavorful dish.
• Embrace Vegetable Versatility: The beauty of this soup lies in its adaptability. While carrots, celery, and corn are classic choices and provide a lovely texture and sweetness, feel free to use whatever vegetables you have on hand or prefer. Diced potatoes, green beans, peas, zucchini, or even spinach can be excellent additions. Just be mindful of cooking times for very tender vegetables; add them towards the end if you prefer them less cooked.
• Preventing the “BURN” Message: A common Instant Pot concern is the “BURN” message. To avoid this, always deglaze the pot thoroughly after browning the meat by scraping up any stuck-on bits with a wooden spoon when adding the first cup of beef stock. Also, when adding tomato products (crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce), avoid stirring them into the bottom layer. Instead, layer them on top of the other liquids and ingredients. This prevents the thicker tomato base from settling and potentially scorching.
• Adjusting Seasoning to Taste: Taste your soup after pressure cooking and once it has slightly cooled. You might find it needs a little more salt, pepper, or a pinch of your favorite herb to truly sing. Remember, you can always add more seasoning, but you can’t take it away!

Delicious Variations to Customize Your Soup

This Instant Pot Hamburger Soup is wonderfully versatile, allowing for numerous modifications to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Get creative and make it your own!

• Experiment with Different Meats: While ground beef is traditional, feel free to use any ground meat you enjoy. Ground turkey or chicken makes for a lighter soup, and they’re particularly great because they typically render less fat, meaning no draining is usually required. Ground pork or a combination of meats can also add unique flavors.
• Cheesy Indulgence: For a truly decadent and creamy finish, stir in about 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheddar-jack blend) once the soup is done cooking and the pressure has been released. Stir until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated, creating a rich, gooey texture.
• Utilize Frozen Vegetables: Don’t have fresh veggies on hand? No problem! A bag of mixed frozen vegetables (like carrots, peas, green beans, or corn) works beautifully. You can add them directly to the pot with the other vegetables before pressure cooking – no need to thaw.
• Add Pasta or Grains for Extra Heartiness: To make the soup even more substantial, consider adding a cup of small pasta (like macaroni, ditalini, or small shells) or ½ cup of rice (white or brown). If adding pasta, stir it in with the liquids and vegetables before pressure cooking. For rice, ensure you have enough liquid, as rice will absorb more. You may need to add an extra ½ cup of water or broth.
• Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce along with the other seasonings. A diced jalapeño or a can of diced green chilies can also provide a pleasant warmth.
• Bean Boost: Incorporate a can of drained and rinsed kidney beans, cannellini beans, or black beans for added protein and fiber. Add them after the pressure cooking cycle is complete to prevent them from becoming too mushy.
• Herb Garden Freshness: While Italian seasoning provides a great base, consider stirring in fresh chopped parsley, cilantro, or dill right before serving for a burst of fresh flavor and color.

Make Ahead, Freeze, and Reheat with Ease

This Instant Pot Hamburger Soup is a fantastic candidate for meal prepping and freezer storage, making your future meals incredibly convenient. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld and deepen.

• Storing in the Refrigerator: Once the soup has cooled completely, transfer it to airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This makes it perfect for packed lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
• Freezing for Long-Term Storage: For longer storage, this soup freezes beautifully. Allow the soup to cool completely before portioning it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Ensure there’s a little headspace if using rigid containers, as liquids expand when frozen. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply transfer it to the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.
• Reheating from Frozen (Instant Pot Method): You can even reheat your soup directly from frozen using your Instant Pot! Pour 1 cup of water into the Instant Pot liner, then place the block of frozen soup (if it fits) on a trivet or directly into the water. Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and pressure cook on HIGH for 5 minutes. Allow for a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure. Stir well before serving.
• Reheating on the Stovetop or Microwave: Alternatively, reheat thawed or refrigerated soup gently in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For individual portions, the microwave works quickly; heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

What to Serve with Hamburger Soup

This hearty Instant Pot Hamburger Soup is a meal in itself, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate the dining experience. Here are some delicious ideas:

• Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of French bread, sourdough, or even garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of the rich broth.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup and adds a burst of freshness.
• Cornbread: Sweet and savory cornbread complements the flavors of the soup beautifully and provides a comforting side.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: For the ultimate comfort food pairing, serve a classic grilled cheese sandwich alongside your hamburger soup.
• Crackers: Simple saltine crackers or oyster crackers are always a welcome addition, adding a satisfying crunch.
• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives before serving adds a touch of brightness and visual appeal.

More Instant Pot Soup Recipes to Explore

If you’ve fallen in love with the ease and flavor of Instant Pot soups, there’s a whole world of culinary possibilities waiting for you. Here are some other fantastic pressure cooker soup recipes to add to your repertoire:

• The Best Instant Pot Beef Chili: A robust and flavorful chili that comes together in a fraction of the time.
• Instant Pot White Chicken Chili: A creamy and zesty alternative to traditional chili, packed with chicken and white beans.
• Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Soup: A classic comfort soup, perfect for colds or simply a cozy meal.
• Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup: A flavorful way to use up leftover ham, resulting in a hearty and satisfying soup.

For even more pressure cooking inspiration and innovative recipes, be sure to browse our comprehensive Instant Pot category. It’s packed with dishes designed to make your life easier and your meals more delicious!

New to the Instant Pot? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Check out our Instant Pot Guide for Beginners, filled with all the essential information you need to confidently get started with your new appliance. And if you ever encounter the dreaded “BURN” message on your Instant Pot, our dedicated Instant Pot Burn Message post will explain why it happens and provide practical tips on how to prevent it and even save your dish.

We absolutely love seeing your culinary creations! If you try this Instant Pot Hamburger Soup recipe and enjoy it, please snap a photo and share it on INSTAGRAM! Don’t forget to tag me @crunchycreamysweet so I can admire your delicious work and leave a comment! Happy cooking! 😀

Instant Pot Hamburger Soup

Author: Anna

A hearty, flavorful soup featuring ground beef, fresh vegetables, rich beef stock, and crushed tomatoes. Easily customizable with potatoes or noodles for an even more filling meal.

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
7 mins

Coming to Pressure:
15 mins

Total Time:
32 mins

Course:
Soup

Cuisine:
American

Servings:
5 people

Calories:
228 kcal

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb lean ground beef (80% lean recommended, see notes)
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 small green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon ground paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 2 celery ribs, chopped
• 1 Bay leaf
• 1 ½ cups crushed tomatoes
• 8 oz can tomato sauce
• 2 cups beef stock (low-sodium recommended)
• 3 cups water
• 1 cup whole kernel corn

Instructions

1. Ensure the stainless steel insert is in your Instant Pot. Press the “Saute” setting and wait until the display shows HOT.
2. Add olive oil and swirl to coat the bottom of the pot.
3. Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add Italian seasoning and paprika. Stir in well and cook for 1 minute to bloom the spices.
5. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned. If using fatty beef, drain any excess grease by pushing the beef to one side and scooping out the fat.
6. Add salt and black pepper and stir in. Press “Cancel/Off” button.
7. Add 1 cup of beef stock and deglaze the bottom of the pot by scraping any cooked-on bits with a wooden spoon. This prevents the “BURN” message.
8. Add the remaining beef stock and water.
9. Add corn, celery, and carrots. Stir gently.
10. Add tomato sauce and crushed tomatoes. Place the Bay leaf on top. Do not stir these top layers.
11. Close the lid and set the valve to the “Sealing” position (newer IP models may do this automatically).
12. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and ensure the Instant Pot is set to cook on HIGH pressure.
13. Set the timer to 7 minutes.
14. The Instant Pot will beep and begin to come to pressure, which can take 12 to 15 minutes due to the volume of ingredients.
15. Once the timer is done, press “Cancel/Off” and wait 5 minutes for a natural pressure release (NPR). After 5 minutes, carefully switch the valve to the “Venting” position to quick release (QR) any remaining pressure.
16. Once the floating pin drops, carefully open the lid away from your face. The soup will be bubbling.
17. Stir the soup well (and remove the Bay leaf) and let it sit for 10 minutes to cool slightly and allow flavors to meld before serving.

Notes

1. Please note that nutritional values can vary based on specific product brands and quantities used. The information provided is an estimate.
2. Using at least 80% lean ground beef will minimize the need to drain grease. Ground turkey is an excellent lean alternative.

Nutrition

Calories: 228 kcal |
Carbohydrates: 16g |
Protein: 24g |
Fat: 8g |
Saturated Fat: 3g |
Cholesterol: 56mg |
Sodium: 855mg |
Potassium: 1065mg |
Fiber: 4g |
Sugar: 9g |
Vitamin A: 4701 IU |
Vitamin C: 33mg |
Calcium: 89mg |
Iron: 4mg

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