If you’re searching for the kind of meal that wraps you up in comfort and nostalgia, Beef and Macaroni Soup is as cozy as it gets. Imagine a steaming pot bubbling on the stove, the rich aroma of seasoned beef, tomatoes, and tender macaroni mingling together. This classic soup is beloved for its hearty ingredients, simple preparation, and the way it brings everyone to the table—whether it’s a busy weeknight or a chilly weekend lunch. With every spoonful, you’ll enjoy the perfect balance of savory broth, satisfying pasta, and pops of colorful vegetables. Beef and Macaroni Soup is a true crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style.

Beef and Macaroni Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this soup lies in its straightforward ingredients—each one has a role to play, adding flavor, texture, or a burst of color. Here’s what you’ll need for a pot of pure comfort:

Olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps brown the beef beautifully.
Ground beef: The hearty base of the soup, bringing protein and deep, savory flavor.
Onion: Gives the broth a sweet, aromatic foundation as it softens.
Garlic: Infuses every bite with robust, comforting notes.
Dried oregano: Provides a classic Italian-herb depth that pairs perfectly with tomatoes.
Dried basil: Adds a sweet, peppery hint that brightens up the soup.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle background heat—add more or less to suit your taste.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors to life.
Diced tomatoes: Lends tang, color, and a bit of texture to the broth.
Tomato sauce: Makes the base luxurious and slightly sweet.
Beef broth: Deepens the savory profile and ties everything together.
Elbow macaroni: The classic pasta choice, perfect for soaking up the tasty broth.
Mixed vegetables: Use your favorites, fresh or frozen—think peas, carrots, or green beans—for a pop of color and nutrition.
Worcestershire sauce: Adds an unexpected umami richness you’ll love.
Chopped parsley (optional): For a fresh, vibrant finish right before serving.

How to Make Beef and Macaroni Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and let it sizzle, using a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. You want the beef to be nicely browned—this not only adds flavor but also creates a delicious foundation for the entire soup. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off for a lighter, cleaner broth.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Once your beef is browned, stir in the diced onion and cook for about three minutes, just until it’s soft and translucent. Next, add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if you’re using them), plus a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Let everything cook together for another minute. This quick sauté brings out the aromatic magic of the herbs and garlic, making your kitchen smell incredible.

Step 3: Build the Broth

Now it’s time to pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and your mixed vegetables. Give everything a good stir to combine. As you bring the mixture to a gentle boil, all those flavors start mingling and deepening, setting the stage for a truly satisfying soup.

Step 4: Add the Macaroni

Once your soup base is bubbling, stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni. Reduce the heat so the soup simmers gently and let it cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, or until the pasta is perfectly tender. Stir occasionally to keep the macaroni from sticking to the bottom. This step is what transforms a simple soup into Beef and Macaroni Soup—a true one-pot wonder!

Step 5: Taste and Finish

Give your soup a final taste and adjust the seasoning if you need to. Maybe a dash more salt, or a crack of black pepper. When you’re happy with the flavor, ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley if you like. The result? A steaming bowl of Beef and Macaroni Soup that’s every bit as delicious as it is comforting.

How to Serve Beef and Macaroni Soup

Garnishes

The right garnish can take your Beef and Macaroni Soup from homey to absolutely irresistible. Try a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness—or go bold with a handful of grated Parmesan cheese for extra savoriness. A drizzle of good olive oil just before serving adds a luxurious finish.

Side Dishes

Pairing this soup with the right side makes it a meal to remember. Crusty bread or warm garlic toast is perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth. If you want something lighter, a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette brings balance and brightness to the table.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve Beef and Macaroni Soup in rustic soup mugs or mini bread bowls at your next gathering. You can also set up a “soup bar” and let everyone top their bowl with cheese, herbs, or even a dollop of sour cream for a personalized touch. The possibilities are as endless as your imagination!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Beef and Macaroni Soup is just as delicious the next day, maybe even better! Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. The pasta will continue to soak up some of the broth, making the soup even heartier. If you prefer a thinner soup, add a splash of extra beef broth before reheating.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully, especially if you leave out the macaroni and add it fresh when reheating. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. It will keep in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, simply pour the soup into a pot and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. If the soup has thickened in the fridge, a bit of extra broth or water will loosen it up perfectly. For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in one-minute intervals, stirring in between for even warmth.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta in Beef and Macaroni Soup?

Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic, small pasta shapes like ditalini, shells, or even rotini work beautifully. Just adjust the cooking time as needed so the pasta is tender but not mushy.

What kind of ground beef is best for this soup?

Lean ground beef (like 85% or 90% lean) strikes a great balance between flavor and minimizing excess fat. If you use a fattier blend, just be sure to drain off any extra grease after browning.

Can I make Beef and Macaroni Soup gluten-free?

You sure can! Simply swap the regular elbow macaroni for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Keep an eye on the cooking time, as gluten-free pasta can soften quickly.

How can I add more vegetables to this soup?

Feel free to toss in extra veggies like spinach, zucchini, corn, or bell peppers. This soup is wonderfully flexible, so use whatever is in your fridge or freezer for added nutrition and color.

Is it possible to make Beef and Macaroni Soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup is perfect for meal prep. For the best texture, cook the soup without the pasta and refrigerate or freeze. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the soup, add fresh macaroni, and simmer until the pasta is tender.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s equal parts nostalgic, satisfying, and easy to whip up, Beef and Macaroni Soup truly fits the bill. Give it a try—you might just find it becomes a staple in your kitchen, too!

Beef and Macaroni Soup Recipe

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4.7 from 21 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Beef and Macaroni Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that combines seasoned ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and mixed vegetables in a flavorful tomato and beef broth base. Perfect for a family meal, this soup offers a warm, filling option that’s easy to prepare and packed with savory goodness.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Aromatics

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced

Spices and Seasonings

1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Tomato and Broth

1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
4 cups beef broth

Pasta and Vegetables

1 cup elbow macaroni (uncooked)
1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)

Garnish

Chopped parsley (optional)

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Instructions

Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
Sauté Aromatics: Add diced onion to the pot and cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add Liquids and Vegetables: Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir in the mixed vegetables. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Cook Pasta: Stir in the elbow macaroni, reduce the heat to a simmer, and cook for 10 to 12 minutes or until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

For a heartier soup, add kidney beans or substitute elbow macaroni with shells or ditalini pasta.
Leftovers tend to thicken as they cool; add extra broth when reheating to loosen the soup.
This soup freezes well if you leave out the pasta; add fresh pasta when reheating for best texture.
You can use fresh or frozen mixed vegetables based on availability.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American