Description of this recipe
Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that combines ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato broth. This soup is perfect for chilly evenings, providing warmth and satisfaction in every bowl.
Why you will love this recipe
This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. With its robust flavors and filling ingredients, it’s a meal that the whole family will love. Plus, it can be made in under 40 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option.
Introduction
There’s something incredibly soothing about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s packed with flavors and hearty ingredients. Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup is a classic dish that brings together the comforting elements of beef, pasta, and tomatoes in a delicious broth. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to warm you up on a cold day, this soup is the answer. It’s simple enough for novice cooks yet satisfying enough to impress guests.
In this article, I’ll walk you through each step of the recipe, providing tips and suggestions to elevate your cooking experience. So grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!
Ingredients:
For the Soup:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 6 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 cup elbow macaroni (or your favorite small pasta)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
For Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the Beef
Begin by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it into crumbles with a spatula. Cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess grease to keep the soup from becoming too oily.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Next, add the diced onion to the pot. Sauté for 3–5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and softens. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, allowing the garlic to release its fragrant aroma.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
Now it’s time to create the flavorful base for your soup. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato paste, beef broth, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika (if using), and Italian seasoning to the pot. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and stir in the elbow macaroni. Allow the soup to simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning
After the pasta is cooked, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Step 6: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a crisp side salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup with slices of warm, crusty bread for dipping. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette can also complement the meal nicely. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Tips:
- Pasta Texture: Cook the pasta al dente to avoid it becoming mushy in the soup. This will help maintain a pleasant texture.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the soup base without the pasta and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the soup and add freshly cooked pasta.
- Customizable: Feel free to add extra vegetables such as diced carrots, celery, or spinach to increase the nutritional value of the dish. Just be sure to sauté them with the onions to ensure they’re tender.
- Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. It can also be frozen for up to three months; just remember to leave out the pasta if you plan to freeze it.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 800mg
Conclusion
Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup is the ultimate comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to your dining table. With its hearty ingredients and rich flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly day or serving it at a gathering, this soup is bound to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in a bowl of deliciousness!
Questions and Answers about this recipe:
- Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly if you choose a different meat. - What if I don’t have beef broth?
Chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used as substitutes. The flavor will change slightly, but it will still be delicious. - Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth. You can add beans or lentils for protein and extra texture. - How can I store leftovers?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. It can also be frozen for up to three months, but it’s best to add the pasta fresh when reheating. - Is it possible to add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as carrots, spinach, or bell peppers. Just sauté them along with the onions for the best results.
