How to make Beef and Macaroni Soup

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion (diced)
2 medium carrots (peeled and diced)
2 celery ribs (diced)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
4 cups beef broth
2 cups water
1 cup elbow macaroni (uncooked)
1 cup frozen corn (optional)
Fresh parsley (chopped for garnish)

Directions:

Sauté vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds more. You may also find Beef And Cabbage Soup useful.
Brown the beef: Push vegetables to the side of the pot. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5–6 minutes. Drain excess grease if needed. You may also find Creamy Beef And Shells 2 useful.
Season and build flavor: Stir in salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, beef broth, and water. Bring mixture to a gentle boil. You may also find High Protein Beef And Rice Skillet useful.
Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
Cook pasta: Stir in macaroni and corn (if using). Continue cooking, uncovered, for 8–10 minutes, or until pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Finish and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Beef and Macaroni Soup

This Beef and Macaroni Soup is hearty, filling, and perfect for chilly days. The combination of ground beef, pasta, and plenty of vegetables makes for a balanced meal that the entire family will enjoy. Similar to other comforting dishes like cheeseburger macaroni soup, this recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare.

Nutritional Benefits

This soup is packed with nutrients. The vegetables provide vitamins and fiber, while the ground beef adds protein and iron. Moreover, the inclusion of pasta gives you the carbohydrates needed for energy. If you want a more nutrient-dense option, consider adding some leafy greens or beans.

What to Serve With Beef and Macaroni Soup

Pairing this soup with some crusty bread or a simple side salad can elevate your meal. A light green salad with healthy loaded beef and potato bake would complement the flavors of the soup perfectly, enhancing both nutrition and taste.

How to Store Beef and Macaroni Soup

To store left-over soup, allow it to cool then transfer it into an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for about 3–4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just make sure to leave some space in the container for expansion. When ready to eat, reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until hot.

Tips and Mistakes to Avoid

Do not overcook the pasta: Adding it too early can lead to mushy noodles. Instead, add it towards the end of cooking.
Using lean beef: Opt for ground beef that is at least 85% lean to avoid too much grease.
Flavor enhancement: Experiment with herbs and spices to fit your taste preferences. For instance, adding a pinch of crushed red pepper can give it a nice kick.

Variations

You can easily modify this recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs. For a vegetarian version, replace the beef with lentils or beans and use vegetable broth. Additionally, adding more vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, can increase its nutritional value.

FAQs

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, simply sauté the vegetables and brown the beef first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Is it possible to make this soup gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free macaroni and check the labels on your broth and sauces to ensure they do not contain gluten.

How can I enhance the flavor of the broth?
Consider using homemade broth if you have the time. It usually has a richer flavor. Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce during cooking can also deepen the taste.

This Beef and Macaroni Soup is sure to warm you up and fill your belly, making it a perfect weeknight meal for anyone! Enjoy your cooking!