Beef and Macaroni Soup

This Beef and Macaroni Soup brings the perfect balance of heartiness and nostalgia to your dinner table. Simmered with classic ingredients like tender ground beef, tangy tomatoes, savory broth, and al dente macaroni, it’s the kind of dish that comforts your soul and satisfies your hunger all in one.

Ideal for chilly evenings, meal prep, or feeding a hungry family on a budget, this soup delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. Each spoonful offers warmth, depth, and a touch of rustic charm that takes you back to the comfort of home-cooked meals. One-pot and ready in under an hour, it’s a timeless recipe that never disappoints.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 pound ground beef

  • 1 small onion, chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes

  • 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce

  • 4 cups beef broth

  • 1 cup elbow macaroni, uncooked

  • 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)

  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.

  2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess grease.

  3. Stir in chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is soft and translucent.

  4. Add Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.

  5. Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir well.

  6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.

  7. Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni and frozen vegetables.

  8. Simmer for another 12-15 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and vegetables are heated through.

  9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

  10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Beef and Macaroni Soup: A Homestyle Classic That Warms the Soul

When the weather cools and the evenings get longer, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of hot, hearty soup to bring comfort to your table. Beef and Macaroni Soup is a nostalgic classic, often passed down from generation to generation. With its tender beef, perfectly cooked macaroni, savory tomato base, and a medley of vegetables, this dish is not just satisfying, it’s the ultimate one-pot comfort food. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or meal prepping for the week ahead, this soup checks all the boxes: affordable, filling, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make.

A Dish Rooted in Simplicity and Tradition

What makes this soup so universally loved is its simplicity. It takes humble ingredients that most households already have in their pantry ground beef, elbow macaroni, canned tomatoes, and broth and transforms them into a delicious and hearty meal. In many ways, it reflects the roots of American comfort cuisine, where economical ingredients are cooked slowly and lovingly into something deeply nourishing.

The original inspiration for this dish may vary across households, often resembling recipes like American goulash, hamburger soup, or even a deconstructed lasagna soup. Whatever you call it, Beef and Macaroni Soup is beloved for one reason: it brings people together around the table.

Why This Soup Works

What sets this soup apart is how everything cooks together in one pot, allowing the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully. The ground beef releases savory juices that enrich the broth, while the elbow macaroni absorbs all that flavor as it cooks. The tomatoes provide a slight acidity that balances the richness of the beef, and the mixed vegetables add both color and nutritional value.

This recipe is also incredibly customizable. If you want more heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes will do the trick. Want it creamier? A splash of heavy cream at the end will take it in that direction. Prefer leaner meat? Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. It’s that adaptable.

Nutritional Insights

This soup is more than just comforting, it’s also nutritious, especially when you’re mindful of your ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of some of the nutritional benefits:

  • Protein: Thanks to the ground beef, this soup is high in protein, which is essential for muscle maintenance and overall energy.

  • Fiber: The vegetables and pasta contribute to your daily fiber intake, helping with digestion and satiety.

  • Vitamins & Minerals: The addition of mixed vegetables provides essential vitamins like Vitamin A (for eye health) and Vitamin C (for immune support).

  • Low Sugar: Unlike many canned soups, this homemade version allows you to control the sugar content.

For those watching their calories, you can use lean ground beef (90% lean or more) and whole-wheat pasta for a healthier spin. You can also use low-sodium broth and tomato products to reduce the overall sodium content.

Ingredient Spotlight

  • Ground Beef: Offers a rich, hearty base. You can use any fat content, though draining excess grease is recommended for higher-fat blends.

  • Elbow Macaroni: The classic choice, but you can substitute with shells, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta.

  • Canned Tomatoes & Sauce: These provide acidity, depth, and a tomato-forward richness. Fire-roasted or crushed tomatoes can be used for added flavor.

  • Beef Broth: Enhances the savory profile. Use low-sodium broth if you’re managing salt intake.

  • Mixed Vegetables: Adds texture, nutrition, and color. Frozen blends make this extra convenient, but feel free to use fresh if you prefer.

  • Seasonings: Italian seasoning and paprika give this soup its warm, comforting aroma. Garlic and onions provide that essential aromatic foundation.

Variations & Add-Ons

One of the best parts of this recipe is how easily it can be tailored to your taste or dietary preferences:

  • Cheesy Twist: Stir in a cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella just before serving for a creamy, cheesy version.

  • Creamy Version: Add a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of sour cream for a velvety texture.

  • Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or even a dash of hot sauce.

  • Herbal Finish: Top with fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary for an earthy, aromatic touch.

  • Vegan Adaptation: Use plant-based ground “beef,” vegetable broth, and vegan pasta.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Beef and Macaroni Soup holds up exceptionally well for leftovers, making it ideal for meal prep. In fact, many say it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.

  • Storage: Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

  • Freezing: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Let cool completely before freezing.

  • Reheating: Reheat gently over the stove or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of broth or water as the pasta can absorb more liquid over time.

Serving Suggestions

This soup is a meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with:

  • Crusty garlic bread or warm dinner rolls

  • A crisp green salad with vinaigrette

  • Grilled cheese sandwiches for a cozy, kid-friendly pairing

  • Pickled vegetables or olives for a tangy contrast

Ideal for All Seasons

While this soup is a go-to comfort food during fall and winter, it’s light enough to enjoy year-round. In the spring and summer, serve it with a chilled cucumber salad or a fresh fruit medley to keep the meal light and balanced. Its versatility means you can tweak the ingredients seasonally, using fresh produce when it’s at its peak.

Crowd-Pleaser for All Ages

Whether you’re serving picky eaters or adults with refined palates, Beef and Macaroni Soup is a sure win. Kids love the simple, familiar ingredients like beef, pasta, and tomatoes. Adults appreciate the rich, hearty flavor and the ease of preparation. And when made in a large batch, it’s a fantastic choice for family gatherings, potlucks, or even casual dinner parties.

Conclusion

If you’re searching for a delicious, comforting, and easy-to-make dish, this Beef and Macaroni Soup should be at the top of your list. It’s a reliable recipe that delivers every time, wholesome, flavorful, and budget-friendly. Plus, it can be made in just one pot, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor.

Whether you’re a beginner cook or a seasoned pro, this soup is proof that great meals don’t need to be complicated. Just simple ingredients, some love, and a little time are all it takes to make something truly memorable.

Make this once, and it just might become a regular rotation in your kitchen. Happy cooking and even happier eating!

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