Had a friend recovering from surgery and he said this was his favorite meal all week! So good!

Hamburger Noodle Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that melds the savory taste of ground beef with the homey feel of a noodle soup. Its roots can be found in the classic American hamburger, but it stretches beyond the bun into a warming bowl of goodness. This soup doesn't trace back to a specific origin but is rather a testament to the ingenuity of home cooks looking to create filling meals to feed their families. The combination of beef, broth, and noodles has become a beloved favorite for its simplicity and the ease with which it can be prepared.

When it comes to serving Hamburger Noodle Soup, you can't go wrong with a slice of crusty bread or a warm dinner roll on the side to soak up the flavorful broth. For those seeking balance, a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup beautifully. This recipe is also versatile as it can be served as a starter for a more elaborate meal or as the main course for a casual lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups beef broth
- 2 cups noodles of choice (i.e. egg)
- 1 cup of diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: diced carrots or celery for added veggies

Instructions:

1. Begin by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil followed by the ground beef. Cook the ground beef until it is well-browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks.

2. Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat if necessary. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook together until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant.

3. Pour in the beef broth and bring everything to a boil. If using, add carrots or celery at this stage. Reduce the heat to allow the soup to simmer.

4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, oregano, and basil, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5. Add the egg noodles to the pot and continue to simmer the soup until the noodles are tender, usually about 8 to 10 minutes depending on the thickness of the noodles.

6. Adjust seasoning as needed. Once the noodles are cooked and the soup is heated through, it's ready to serve.

Enjoy the Hamburger Noodle Soup hot, with your choice of bread or a refreshing salad. This cozy soup brings the essence of comfort to any table, whether amongst family or enjoyed in a moment of solitude.