Description
Few meals bring the same level of warmth and satisfaction as a steaming bowl of Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup. This dish combines the heartiness of tender ground beef, the tanginess of a rich tomato broth, and the comforting chew of perfectly cooked macaroni. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something to warm you up on a chilly evening, this soup is a perfect choice. It’s a one-pot meal that’s easy to make, full of rich, layered flavors, and great for meal prep!
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (lean beef preferred; ground turkey or chicken works too)
- 1 cup macaroni pasta (or substitute with small pasta like ditalini or small shells)
- 1 medium onion, diced (yellow or white)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste (adds depth and richness)
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes (creates a thick, flavorful base)
- 4 cups beef broth (homemade or store-bought for depth)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (optional; can be replaced with fresh herbs)
- 1 tsp sugar (balances acidity)
- Salt & pepper to taste (enhances flavors)
Optional Garnishes & Toppings
- Fresh parsley or basil
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Crushed red pepper flakes (for heat)
Instructions
-
Brown the Ground Beef:
Heat a large soup pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon. Stir frequently until evenly browned. Drain excess grease if necessary. -
Sauté the Aromatics:
Add diced onions and minced garlic to the pot. Stir and cook for 3-4 minutes until onions are translucent and fragrant. -
Develop the Tomato Base:
Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to remove any raw tomato taste. Then, add crushed tomatoes and mix well. -
Simmer with Broth & Seasonings:
Pour in beef broth and add Italian seasoning. Stir, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. -
Cook the Macaroni in the Broth:
Add uncooked macaroni directly into the soup. Let it cook for about 8-10 minutes or until it reaches the desired tenderness. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
-
Final Adjustments & Serving:
Taste the soup and adjust salt, pepper, and sugar as needed. Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: DINNER
- Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 2 cups)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 22g