Beef and Macaroni Soup Recipe
If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish that’s both filling and full of flavor, you’re in for a treat with this Beef and Macaroni Soup Recipe. It blends the richness of prime ground beef with tender elbow pasta and vibrant mixed vegetables, all simmered in a flavorful tomato and beef broth. This soup is a one-pot wonder that brings together classic, simple ingredients to create a bowl of warm satisfaction that feels like a big, cozy hug on a chilly day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Beef and Macaroni Soup Recipe truly shine. Each item plays an important role in balancing tastes and textures—from savory beef to aromatic herbs and perfectly cooked pasta, resulting in that irresistible, comforting bowl of soup.
- Prime ground beef: Provides rich, hearty flavor and a satisfying protein base essential for the soup’s depth.
- Red onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic foundation when sautéed with the beef.
- Beef stock: Creates a rich, savory broth that ties all the ingredients together perfectly.
- Fresh chopped tomatoes: Bring a naturally sweet and tangy note to brighten the soup’s flavor.
- Sundried tomato puree: Enhances the tomato flavor with a concentrated, slightly sweet undertone.
- Worcestershire sauce: Introduces a complex, umami twist to deepen the broth’s savory character.
- Crushed oregano and dried basil: Herbs that add fragrant, earthy notes for a well-rounded taste.
- Uncooked elbow pasta: The perfect shape to soak up the broth and bring a delightful tender chewiness.
- Frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and corn): Brighten the soup with color, sweetness, and texture, plus a boost of nutrition.
How to Make Beef and Macaroni Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Sauté the Onion
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat, then add the prime ground beef along with finely chopped red onion. Cook them together, breaking up the beef as it browns and letting the onion soften. This process takes about 5 to 7 minutes and is essential for developing that rich, meaty base packed with aromatic sweetness. Drain any excess fat to keep the soup tasty but not greasy.
Step 2: Build the Broth
Next, add the beef stock, fresh chopped tomatoes, sundried tomato puree, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, and dried basil to your pot. Stir everything to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where all those bright, tangy, and herbal flavors blend beautifully into a savory broth that will carry the rest of the dish.
Step 3: Add Pasta and Vegetables
Once the broth is simmering, stir in the uncooked elbow pasta and the frozen mixed vegetables. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, until the pasta turns tender and the vegetables are heated through. This step allows the pasta to soak up all those delicious flavors while the veggies add bursts of sweetness and texture.
Step 4: Final Taste and Serve
Before serving, give your soup a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed—whether it’s a pinch more salt, pepper, or herbs. Ladle the steaming soup into bowls and get ready to enjoy the perfect harmony of rich beef, tender pasta, and vibrant veggies in every spoonful of this delightful Beef and Macaroni Soup Recipe.
How to Serve Beef and Macaroni Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Your Beef and Macaroni Soup Recipe can be beautifully elevated with a simple garnish. Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil add a pop of color and brightness, while a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese introduces a creamy, salty finish that melts slightly into the warm broth—pure comfort on a spoon.
Side Dishes
To round out the meal, consider serving this soup alongside crusty garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls for dipping. A crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette also pairs wonderfully, balancing the heartiness of the soup with fresh, crunchy greens and a tangy dressing.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls or rustic stoneware mugs for an inviting, homey touch. You can also top each bowl with a swirl of sour cream or a few drops of chili oil for added creaminess or a gentle kick—making each serving feel a little more special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Beef and Macaroni Soup Recipe keeps very well in the refrigerator. Simply transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it just as delicious the next day for a quick and comforting lunch or dinner.
Freezing
If you want to save soup for longer, freezing is a great option. Ensure the soup is fully cooled, then place it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that the pasta may soften slightly after freezing, but the rich broth and delicious beef flavor remain intact.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Adding a splash of beef stock or water can help loosen the broth if it has thickened. Microwave reheating works too, but stirring halfway through ensures even warming.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta in the Beef and Macaroni Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow pasta works perfectly here, small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells also cook well and hold the broth nicely. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as different pastas may vary slightly.
Is it possible to make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Brown the beef and onions first, then add all ingredients except pasta and vegetables into the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, then stir in the uncooked pasta and frozen vegetables during the last 30 minutes to prevent overcooking.
Can I substitute ground beef with another meat?
Certainly. Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a lighter version, though the flavor will be milder. Adjust seasoning accordingly to keep the soup flavorful and satisfying.
Do I need to thaw the frozen vegetables before adding them?
No need to thaw; you can add the frozen mixed vegetables straight from the freezer. They will cook perfectly during the simmering step and retain their texture and color beautifully.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
Simply swap the elbow pasta for a gluten-free pasta variety. Just check the cooking time since gluten-free pasta sometimes requires less time, and add it towards the end to avoid mushiness.
Final Thoughts
This Beef and Macaroni Soup Recipe is truly one of those go-to comfort dishes that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for something hearty to warm you up, this soup won’t disappoint. Grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy every spoonful of this delicious, soul-satisfying meal—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Print
Beef and Macaroni Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This hearty Beef and Macaroni Soup combines rich ground beef, tender elbow pasta, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful tomato-based broth, simmered to perfection. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal ideal for a cozy family dinner, ready in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 pound prime ground beef
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
Broth and Seasonings
- 6 cups rich beef stock
- 14 ounces fresh chopped tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons sundried tomato puree
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
Pasta and Vegetables
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked elbow pasta
- 1 1/2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef and Onion: In a large pot over medium heat, add the ground beef and finely chopped red onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully cooked through and the onion has softened, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the soup from being greasy.
- Add Broth and Flavorings: Pour in the beef stock, chopped tomatoes, and sundried tomato puree. Add Worcestershire sauce, crushed oregano, and dried basil. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients, then bring the soup mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Cook Pasta and Vegetables: Stir in the uncooked elbow pasta and frozen mixed vegetables. Cover the pot with a lid and allow the soup to simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the vegetables are fully heated through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed with salt and pepper if desired. Serve the soup hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or grated cheese for extra flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use homemade beef stock or a high-quality store-bought variety.
- You can substitute elbow pasta with any small pasta shapes like ditalini or small shells.
- Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop.
- Adding fresh herbs such as parsley or basil just before serving enhances the freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
