Beef and Macaroni Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days or anytime you need a bowl of warmth. This classic soup combines tender ground beef, plump macaroni, and flavorful vegetables in a rich tomato broth. It’s easy to make, feeds a crowd, and is full of nostalgic flavors that the whole family will love. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete, satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Tips for Perfect Beef and Macaroni Soup
- Recipe Variations
- FAQs
- Serving Suggestions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
- Add Aromatics: Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery to the pot. Cook for 5-6 minutes, until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and water. Add the dried basil, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Add Macaroni: Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Let the soup simmer for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. If the soup becomes too thick, add a bit more water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Add Peas (Optional): If using, stir in the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Cook until heated through.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired. Enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Beef and Macaroni Soup
- Use Lean Ground Beef: To avoid an overly greasy soup, use lean ground beef (85% lean or higher). This will help maintain a rich flavor without excess fat.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Add the macaroni towards the end of cooking and cook until al dente. This prevents the pasta from becoming too soft or mushy.
- Season to Taste: Adjust the salt and pepper to your preference. Adding salt gradually allows you to control the flavor better.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Beef and Macaroni Soup: Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Vegetable-Packed Version: Add more vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition.
- Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Soup: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese just before serving for a creamy, cheesy twist.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time. Just note that the pasta will continue to absorb liquid as it sits, so you may need to add more broth when reheating.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, you can freeze the soup. However, it’s best to freeze it before adding the pasta, as pasta can become mushy when frozen and reheated. Add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.
Serving Suggestions
- With Crusty Bread: Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or a baguette for dipping.
- With a Green Salad: Pair it with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- With Grated Parmesan: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor.
Beef and Macaroni Soup is a comforting, family-friendly dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any time of year. With tender ground beef, flavorful vegetables, and plump macaroni, it’s a complete meal in a bowl that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re making it for a quick weeknight dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this hearty soup is sure to satisfy. Give it a try and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors that make this dish a classic favorite!
