If you are looking for a comforting and hearty bowl that combines the rich flavors of beef with the satisfying bite of pasta, then this Beef and Macaroni Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. This soup brings together juicy ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, vibrant vegetables, and an aromatic blend of herbs and tomato goodness, creating a meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Perfect for any day of the week, it’s quick to make, full of flavor, and just the kind of dish you want to share with family or friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Beef and Macaroni Soup Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients that all play a special role in bringing the soup to life. From the rich depth of beef stock to the fresh burst of mixed vegetables, every component adds texture, color, and mouthwatering flavor.
- Prime ground beef: Choose fresh, quality beef for the best flavor and tender texture.
- Finely chopped red onion: Adds sweetness and a mild tang that enhances the beef.
- Rich beef stock: The flavorful base that deeply enriches the soup.
- Fresh chopped tomatoes: Bring a juicy freshness and subtle acidity.
- Sundried tomato puree: Offers an intense, concentrated tomato flavor with a touch of sweetness.
- Worcestershire sauce: Adds a subtle umami kick that elevates the overall taste.
- Crushed oregano: A fragrant herb that infuses the soup with warmth.
- Dried basil: Gives a light and fresh herbal note that brightens the mix.
- Uncooked elbow pasta: The classic shape is perfect for capturing broth and bits of beef.
- Frozen mixed vegetables: Convenient and colorful, they add lovely texture and nutrients.
How to Make Beef and Macaroni Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onions
Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat, then add the ground beef and finely chopped red onion. Cook them together until the beef is fully browned and the onion softens, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step builds the foundational flavors, so take your time and then drain any excess fat to keep the soup from getting greasy.
Step 2: Add the Flavorful Liquids and Herbs
Next, pour in the rich beef stock, fresh chopped tomatoes, and sundried tomato puree. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, crushed oregano, and dried basil to add complex aroma and depth. Bring everything to a slow simmer, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you prepare for the next step.
Step 3: Stir in Pasta and Vegetables
Now it’s time to add the uncooked elbow pasta along with frozen mixed vegetables. Give the mixture a good stir, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 10 to 12 minutes. During this phase, the pasta cooks perfectly in the broth, soaking up all the rich taste, and the vegetables become tender but still vibrant.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
The final step in cooking is essential: taste your soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Sometimes a pinch of salt or a tiny bit more Worcestershire sauce can make all the difference. Serve the soup hot, and if you like, garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated cheese to add an extra touch of comfort.
How to Serve Beef and Macaroni Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes take this Beef and Macaroni Soup Recipe from great to unforgettable. Fresh parsley or basil leaves lend a pop of color and fresh note, while a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar cheese melts enticingly into the warm broth for an extra layer of creamy goodness.
Side Dishes
Serving this soup alongside crusty bread or warm garlic toast makes for a perfect, satisfying meal. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette also pairs wonderfully, balancing the richness of the soup with refreshing crunch. These sides help round out the plate and keep things interesting every bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve the soup in rustic bread bowls or brightly colored ceramic mugs to amp up the cozy factor. You can also sprinkle chopped green onions or crushed red pepper flakes on top for added texture and a little kick. It’s a fun way to customize and make this beef and macaroni classic uniquely yours.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Beef and Macaroni Soup Recipe keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain that fresh, vibrant flavor and prevent the pasta from becoming too mushy. Before enjoying again, be sure to give it a good stir.
Freezing
This soup freezes well but keep in mind that pasta can sometimes get softer after thawing. To avoid texture changes, you might want to cook the pasta separately when preparing for freezing, then add it when reheating. Otherwise, freeze the entire soup in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
Reheating
When reheating your Beef and Macaroni Soup Recipe, warm it gently on the stove over medium-low heat to avoid overcooking the pasta. Stir occasionally and add a little water or broth if the soup has thickened. Microwave is fine too, but be careful to heat in shorter intervals and stir often.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta in this soup?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional and perfect for this soup, small pasta shapes like ditalini, shells, or mini penne work just as well. Just adjust cooking time accordingly so the pasta remains tender but not mushy.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing and batch cooking?
Yes, it’s great for batch cooking and freezing. Just remember pasta tends to soften over time, so you may want to add freshly cooked pasta when serving after freezing for the best texture.
Can I make this soup vegetarian or use a different protein?
While this Beef and Macaroni Soup Recipe is beef-based, you can easily swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat substitutes. Just use vegetable stock if you want a vegetarian version and skip the meat entirely or use beans for protein.
How spicy is the soup? Can I add heat?
This recipe is mild and comforting by default. If you’d love to add some spice, consider throwing in crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during cooking or as a garnish.
What vegetables work best in this soup?
Frozen mixed vegetables like peas, carrots, and corn are ideal for convenience and color. You can also add fresh diced zucchini, green beans, or spinach for extra nutrition and texture as per your preference.
Final Thoughts
This Beef and Macaroni Soup Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm embrace on a chilly day and makes you eager for seconds. It’s straightforward, delicious, and endlessly satisfying. Trust me, once you try it, this soup will earn a permanent spot in your go-to recipe collection. Grab your pot and ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
Print
Beef and Macaroni Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This hearty Beef and Macaroni Soup is a warm and comforting meal perfect for any day of the week. Featuring ground beef, elbow pasta, fresh tomatoes, and a blend of herbs and vegetables, it’s packed with rich flavors and simple to prepare in just 35 minutes.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 pound prime ground beef
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
Liquids and Sauces
- 6 cups rich beef stock
- 2 tablespoons sundried tomato puree
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Vegetables and Herbs
- 14 ounces fresh chopped tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 1/2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
Pasta
- 1 1/2 cups uncooked elbow pasta
Instructions
- Brown the beef and onions: In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef and finely chopped red onion until the beef is fully cooked and the onion softens, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in the rich beef stock, fresh chopped tomatoes, sundried tomato puree, Worcestershire sauce, crushed oregano, and dried basil. Stir well to combine all ingredients and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook pasta and vegetables: Add the uncooked elbow pasta and frozen mixed vegetables to the pot. Stir to combine, cover the pot, and let simmer for 10-12 minutes until the pasta is tender and the vegetables are heated through.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or grated cheese for added flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use homemade beef stock or a quality store-bought version.
- Feel free to swap mixed vegetables with your favorites, such as green beans or zucchini.
- Drain excess fat well to avoid greasy soup.
- This soup reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a thicker consistency, reduce the amount of beef stock slightly or add a slurry of cornstarch mixed with cold water during simmering.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
