Few dishes embody comfort food quite like a steaming bowl of Beef and Macaroni Soup. This hearty, wholesome recipe is a perfect blend of tender ground beef, chewy pasta, and savory vegetables simmered in a rich tomato-based broth. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out—ideal for chilly evenings, busy weeknights, or whenever your family craves something satisfying yet simple.
What makes this soup irresistible is its balance: the savory beef provides depth, the macaroni pasta adds heartiness, and the vegetables and spices bring freshness and flavor. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means fewer dishes and more time to enjoy your meal.
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Ingredients and Their Roles
1 lb ground beef – The star of the dish, offering protein and richness. Browning it first deepens the flavor.
1 medium onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and aromatic depth to the broth.
2 garlic cloves, minced – Infuses the soup with bold, savory flavor.
1 large carrot, diced – Provides natural sweetness and a pop of color.
2 celery stalks, diced – Brings earthiness and texture.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – Forms the tangy, tomato-rich base of the soup.
6 cups beef broth – Creates a flavorful liquid foundation and enhances the beefiness.
1 cup elbow macaroni – The signature ingredient that transforms the soup into a filling, complete meal.
1 teaspoon dried oregano – Adds an herby, slightly peppery note.
1 teaspoon dried basil – Infuses warmth and Italian-inspired flavor.
1 bay leaf – Enhances depth with a subtle, aromatic background.
Salt and black pepper, to taste – Essential for balancing flavors.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – Brightens the dish with color and freshness.
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Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the beef
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Sauté the aromatics
Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Build the broth
Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, basil, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Simmer for flavor
Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer for 20–25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. Add the macaroni
Stir in the elbow macaroni and cook for an additional 8–10 minutes, until the pasta is tender but not mushy.
6. Season and serve
Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust with salt and black pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
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Why This Recipe Is Loved
This Beef and Macaroni Soup has earned its place as a family favorite because it is:
Quick and easy – Ready in under an hour with minimal effort.
One-pot magic – Less cleanup, maximum flavor.
Kid-friendly – The familiar flavors of beef, pasta, and tomato appeal to all ages.
Versatile – Easy to adjust with different vegetables, spices, or pasta shapes.
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Pro Tips for Perfecting Beef and Macaroni Soup
Cook the pasta separately if you’re making the soup ahead of time. This prevents the macaroni from absorbing too much broth and becoming soggy.
Use lean ground beef (around 85–90%) to avoid excess grease while still keeping flavor.
Add a pinch of sugar if your tomatoes taste too acidic—it balances the broth.
Boost richness with a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese just before serving.
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Serving Suggestions
This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with:
Crusty bread or garlic toast – Perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
Simple side salad – A crisp green salad adds freshness and balances the richness.
Grilled cheese sandwich – A comfort-food classic combo that kids (and adults) love.
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Final Thoughts
When it comes to comfort food, Beef and Macaroni Soup stands tall as a timeless classic. With its rich tomato broth, tender beef, and hearty pasta, it’s the ultimate bowl of warmth and satisfaction. Easy enough for weeknig
hts yet cozy enough for Sunday family dinners, this recipe proves that simple ingredients can create truly extraordinary flavor.
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