There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a bubbling pot of Beef Macaroni Soup wafting through your home. Imagine the savory scent of tender beef mingling with spices and the comforting sight of macaroni dancing around in a rich broth. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that warms your heart more than any blanket ever could.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make It Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- Can I make beef macaroni soup ahead of time?
- What vegetables can I add to this soup?
- How do I thicken my beef macaroni soup?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Growing up, my mom would whip up this delightful dish on particularly chilly nights, turning our kitchen into a haven of warmth and laughter. Each spoonful was like a hug in a bowl, making it the perfect comfort food for family gatherings or when you’re simply craving some love. Get ready to have your taste buds tickled as we dive into this recipe that promises to be both easy and utterly satisfying.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Beef Macaroni Soup is quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners less stressful
- Its rich flavors will have everyone asking for seconds
- With vibrant colors and textures, it’s visually appealing too!
- Versatile enough for any occasion, you can customize it with leftover veggies or different spices
I remember one snowy evening when I made this Beef Macaroni Soup for friends who were visiting. The look on their faces when they took their first bite was priceless!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
- Macaroni Pasta: Any small pasta works well; I prefer elbow macaroni for that classic feel.
- Diced Tomatoes: Use canned tomatoes for convenience—look for ones without added sugar.
- Beef Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of your soup.
- Onion: Fresh onions add sweetness; yellow onions are my go-to choice.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring out an amazing aroma—don’t skimp on these little gems!
- Carrots: Diced carrots add color and sweetness; they’re also great for sneaking in some veggies.
- Celery: Adds crunch and depth—make sure to chop them finely so they blend well.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs enhances flavor; feel free to adjust based on your preference.
- Black Pepper & Salt: Essential seasonings—you can always adjust according to taste.
- Parmesan Cheese (optional): For garnish, as it adds a delightful richness at the end.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Cooking up this Beef Macaroni Soup is simpler than finding a matching pair of socks in the laundry!
Sauté the Veggies: Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery until softened—about five minutes should do it.
Add the Ground Beef: Toss in the ground beef next. Cook until browned and crumbly while breaking it apart with a spatula—this usually takes about six minutes.
Add Garlic & Seasonings: Once the meat is browned, stir in minced garlic along with Italian seasoning. Sauté until fragrant—around one minute will suffice.
Pour in the Broth & Tomatoes: Next up, add diced tomatoes (with juice) and broth to the pot. Bring this lovely mixture to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally.
Add Pasta & Cook Until Tender: Now it’s time to incorporate your elbow macaroni. Stir well and let it cook according to package instructions—usually about 8-10 minutes until al dente.
Season & Serve!: Taste your soup before serving; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired!
Now you have yourself a potful of joy! This Beef Macaroni Soup is perfect for cozy nights or any time you need a little pick-me-up. Enjoy every spoonful!
You Must Know
- Beef macaroni soup is both hearty and comforting, making it perfect for chilly days
- The combination of spices creates a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen, while the creamy texture brings warmth to every spoonful
- This dish is also a great way to use leftover beef or pasta
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the beef in a pot, then add veggies and broth, simmering until flavors meld beautifully. This sequence ensures everything cooks evenly and the meat remains tender.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add beans for extra protein. A dash of hot sauce can spice things up, or toss in fresh herbs for a burst of flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover beef macaroni soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, adding broth if it thickens too much.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To keep your beef macaroni soup from becoming mushy, undercook the macaroni slightly before adding it to the soup
- Freshly grated cheese adds a wonderful creaminess when served
- Always taste before seasoning; sometimes your broth may already be salty enough
There’s nothing quite like serving a bowl of this cozy soup on a rainy day and watching friends’ faces light up in happiness.
FAQ
Can I make beef macaroni soup ahead of time?
Yes, preparing it a day ahead enhances the flavors even more.
What vegetables can I add to this soup?
Consider adding carrots, peas, or spinach for added nutrition and color.
How do I thicken my beef macaroni soup?
Add a cornstarch slurry or let it simmer uncovered to reduce excess liquid.
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Beef Macaroni Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Beef Macaroni Soup is a comforting bowl of tender beef and macaroni simmered in a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for cozy nights and family gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Add the ground beef; cook until browned (about 6 minutes), breaking it apart.
- Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning; sauté for another minute.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with juice and beef broth; bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the elbow macaroni; cook according to package instructions (8-10 minutes) until al dente.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing/Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
