There’s just something about homemade soup that wraps you up like a cozy blanket on a chilly day, don’t you think? My beef and macaroni soup is the ultimate comfort food, and it always brings me back to my childhood kitchen, where the aroma of simmering broth would fill the air. This hearty dish is packed with tender ground beef, soft macaroni, and loads of colorful veggies, making it not just delicious but also a feast for the eyes! It’s one of those recipes I turn to when I need a pick-me-up or when friends drop by unexpectedly. Trust me, a steaming bowl of this soup will warm your soul and put a smile on your face. So grab your pot, and let’s dive into making this delightful dish together!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this comforting beef and macaroni soup. I love how simple these ingredients are, yet they come together to create such a delightful dish!

1 pound ground beef
1 cup macaroni (I prefer elbow macaroni, but any small pasta works!)
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic flavor!)
4 cups beef broth (use low-sodium if you prefer a lighter soup)
1 can diced tomatoes (about 14.5 ounces, juice included for extra flavor)
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste!)
1 teaspoon pepper (freshly cracked if you can—it makes a difference!)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (a lovely blend of herbs)
2 cups mixed vegetables (I love the combination of carrots, peas, and corn for color and sweetness)

Make sure to gather everything before you start cooking; it just makes the process so much easier and more fun!

How to Prepare the Beef and Macaroni Soup Recipe

Alright, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a steaming pot of beef and macaroni soup in no time. I promise it’s easier than it looks!

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s nice and warm, add in the 1 pound of ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. You want to brown the beef for about 5-7 minutes until it’s no longer pink. This step is crucial as it adds flavor to your soup, so don’t rush it!

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook them together for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. The garlic will start to smell amazing—trust me, you’re going to love this!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Now, it’s time to bring everything together! Pour in the 4 cups of beef broth and add the can of diced tomatoes (don’t forget the juice!). Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Give it all a good stir to combine the flavors. Let this mixture come to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Simmer and Add Macaroni

Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to let it simmer. Now, add in the 1 cup of macaroni and the 2 cups of mixed vegetables. Let everything simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender and the veggies are cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking!

Step 5: Serve

Finally, it’s time to serve! Ladle the hot soup into bowls, and if you want to take it up a notch, sprinkle some fresh parsley or a bit of grated cheese on top. This soup is perfect all on its own, but feel free to serve it with some crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy every warm, comforting bite!

Why You’ll Love This Beef and Macaroni Soup Recipe

Quick prep time: You can have this delicious soup ready in just 40 minutes!
Hearty meal: Packed with protein from the beef and carbs from the macaroni, it’s filling and satisfying.
Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore this comforting bowl of goodness.
Nutritious: With loads of veggies and lean beef, you’re serving up a balanced meal in every bowl.
Versatile: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes—make it your own!
Perfect for meal prep: This soup stores well, making it great for leftovers or batch cooking.
Budget-friendly: Using simple ingredients means you can whip up a delicious meal without breaking the bank.
Comforting aroma: The smell of this soup simmering will make your kitchen feel like home!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re ready to make the best beef and macaroni soup, here are some of my tried-and-true tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time!

Season as you go: Don’t wait until the end to taste your soup! Adjust the seasonings as it cooks, especially after adding the broth and tomatoes. If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick!
Mix up the veggies: While I love the classic combo of carrots, peas, and corn, feel free to throw in whatever veggies you have on hand! Spinach, bell peppers, or even zucchini are fantastic choices.
Use homemade broth if you can: If you have the time, making your own beef broth elevates the flavor of this soup to a whole new level. It’s worth the effort if you want that deep, rich taste! Learn more about making beef broth.
Don’t overcook the macaroni: Since the macaroni continues to cook in the residual heat even after you turn off the stove, undercook it slightly to avoid mushy pasta.
Add a splash of vinegar: A tiny splash of red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar just before serving can brighten up the flavors and give your soup an extra depth. Trust me on this one!
Garnish for flair: Top each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil for color and extra flavor. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese can also take it to the next level!
Make it a one-pot meal: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can add some chopped potatoes or beans to the mix for even more heartiness. Just adjust the broth accordingly!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be able to make this beef and macaroni soup a delightful staple in your kitchen. Happy cooking!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Alright, let’s talk about how to store your delicious beef and macaroni soup so you can enjoy it later! First off, let the soup cool down to room temperature before you store it. This helps prevent condensation and keeps it from getting soggy. I like to use airtight containers for storage—just scoop the soup into a container, seal it up, and pop it in the fridge. It’ll last for about 3 days, but trust me, it’s so good you might not have any leftovers!

If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup! Just make sure to leave a bit of space at the top of the container because the soup will expand as it freezes. It should stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just take it out and let it thaw in the fridge overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can also defrost it in the microwave, but I recommend the fridge for the best texture.

Now, for reheating! You can pour the soup into a pot and warm it over medium heat on the stove. Stir occasionally to make sure it heats evenly. If it looks a bit thick, just add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave—just cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plate to prevent splatters. Heat it in short intervals, stirring in between, until it’s piping hot.

And there you have it! With these tips, you can savor your beef and macaroni soup again and again. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Nutritional Information

Here’s the typical nutritional breakdown for each serving of my beef and macaroni soup. Keep in mind that these values are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what you’re enjoying in your warm bowl of goodness!

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 350
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 50mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Protein: 20g

With a hearty mix of protein, fiber, and wholesome ingredients, this soup isn’t just comforting; it’s a nutritious choice for any meal. Enjoy knowing you’re serving up something that tastes fantastic and nourishes your body too!

FAQ Section

Got questions about my beef and macaroni soup? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I get, along with my answers to help you make this recipe even better!

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken makes for a lighter version of this soup while still being delicious. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as they may cook a bit faster than beef.

What if I don’t have beef broth?

No problem at all! You can substitute with chicken broth or even vegetable broth if you want to keep it vegetarian. Just remember that it might slightly change the flavor, but it will still be tasty!

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to throw in any veggies you have on hand. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even spinach would be fantastic additions. Just chop them up and toss them in when you add the mixed vegetables.

How do I make this soup gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, just swap out the macaroni for a gluten-free pasta option. There are plenty of delicious gluten-free pastas available these days, and they work just as well in this soup!

Can I make this soup in advance?

You bet! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it!

What’s the best way to reheat the soup?

The best way to reheat is on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If you’re short on time, you can also use the microwave—just be sure to stir it every minute or so to heat evenly.

Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating!

What can I serve with this soup?

This beef and macaroni soup is delicious on its own, but you can also pair it with some crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even a grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal!

Hopefully, these answers help you out as you dive into making this hearty soup. If you have any other questions, feel free to reach out—I love hearing from fellow food lovers!

beef and macaroni soup recipe: 7 reasons to adore it

Author: CakesLouna
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

This is a hearty beef and macaroni soup that warms you up.

Instructions

Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until soft.
Stir in the beef broth and diced tomatoes.
Add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat.
Add macaroni and mixed vegetables.
Simmer for 15-20 minutes until macaroni is tender.
Serve hot.

Notes

This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Feel free to add other vegetables as desired.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 350
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: beef and macaroni soup recipe

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