In large skillet add ground beef, onion, garlic, salt and pepper. Saute until ground beef is browned and onions are translucent. Transfer to large cooking pot.
In same skillet heat olive oil. Add carrots and celery and saute until tender (not too soft. Transfer to pot.
Add tomatoes to skillet to deglaze. The browned bits add great flavour to the soup!
Stir in beef broth, oregano, basil, thyme and chili pepper flakes.
Bring to a boil, then transfer to pot and combine with hamburger and vegetables.
Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30- 40 minutes.
Notes
Optional ingredients to add in, cooked pasta, cooked rice, fresh spinach, green beans, peas, corn, potatoes, or cabbage.