Beef Macaroni Soup is a classic, comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of beef, tender pasta, and savory broth into a delicious, hearty soup. This dish is perfect for any time of the year, whether you need a warming meal on a cold day or a simple family dinner that satisfies everyone. It’s easy to make, packed with flavors, and can be customized to your liking with different vegetables, herbs, or even spices.
In this article, we’ll take you step-by-step through the process of making a delicious Beef Macaroni Soup that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this soup is a go-to for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Ingredients for Beef Macaroni Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting beef macaroni soup:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner version)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large carrot, peeled and diced
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
- 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni pasta (or any small pasta)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste (optional, for added depth of flavor)
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional, for added vegetables)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Equipment Needed:
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Can opener
Step-by-Step Method to Make Beef Macaroni Soup
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ground beef to the pot.
- Break up the meat with a wooden spoon as it cooks, stirring occasionally. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink.
- Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat if necessary, leaving just a little bit of the fat in the pot to add flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the diced onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, and chopped celery to the pot. Stir everything together, cooking for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften.
- Tip: If you want a bit more flavor, you can season the vegetables with a pinch of salt as they cook to draw out moisture and enhance the flavor.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Broth
Once the vegetables are softened, add the can of diced tomatoes (with juices) to the pot. Stir to combine, scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the pot.
- Next, pour in the beef broth (or vegetable broth). Stir everything together to combine. Bring the mixture to a boilover medium-high heat.
Step 4: Add the Pasta and Seasonings
Once the soup begins to boil, add the elbow macaroni to the pot. Stir well to ensure the pasta is evenly distributed throughout the soup. Reduce the heat to low to simmer.
- Add the dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir to incorporate the seasonings. At this point, you can also add tomato paste if you prefer a thicker and more robust tomato flavor.
Step 5: Simmer the Soup
Let the soup simmer uncovered for about 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.
- Tip: Keep an eye on the soup as the pasta cooks. If the soup seems to be getting too thick, you can add a little more broth or water to adjust the consistency.
Step 6: Add the Frozen Peas (Optional)
If you’re using frozen peas, add them to the soup during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. This will allow them to cook through without losing their bright color and texture.
- If you prefer a soup with more vegetables, you can add other options, such as corn, green beans, or chopped spinach at this stage.
Step 7: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Once the pasta is cooked and the vegetables are tender, taste the soup. You may want to adjust the seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking.
Step 8: Serve and Garnish
Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls. Top each bowl with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and a creamy finish. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, adding a burst of color and freshness to the dish.
- For a heartier meal, serve the soup with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
Tips for Perfect Beef Macaroni Soup
- Choose the right pasta: While elbow macaroni is the classic choice for beef macaroni soup, you can experiment with other small pasta types like ditalini, small shells, or rotini for a fun twist.
- Use homemade or low-sodium broth: If possible, opt for homemade beef broth or a low-sodium version to control the salt content in the soup.
- Vegetarian version: To make this soup vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for a more filling alternative. Use vegetable brothinstead of beef broth.
- Meal prep: This soup stores well and can be made ahead for easy lunches or dinners. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a little extra broth if the pasta absorbs too much liquid.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta: Be careful not to overcook the pasta. Add it at the right time, and make sure to keep an eye on it during the simmering process to ensure it stays tender without becoming mushy.
- Not adjusting the liquid: Pasta can absorb a lot of the broth, so if the soup gets too thick, add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Not seasoning enough: Since the soup has a simple base, make sure you season it well with salt, pepper, and herbs. Taste the soup as you go and adjust the seasonings to ensure the flavors are balanced.
Conclusion
Beef Macaroni Soup is the perfect combination of savory, hearty, and comforting. With tender beef, vegetables, and pasta in a flavorful broth, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. It’s simple to make, customizable, and packed with nutrients, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
By following these easy steps, you can create a delicious, satisfying bowl of soup that will warm you from the inside out. Serve it with your favorite bread for a complete meal that everyone will love.