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Beef Macaroni Soup
This hearty Beef Macaroni Soup is the perfect comfort food, combining a rich, beefy tomato broth with tender macaroni for a filling and nostalgic dish. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a classic family favorite that’s sure to warm hearts and bellies alike.
Servings
- Serves 6
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Kid-Approved: The beefy tomato flavor and tender macaroni make it a hit with all ages.
- Comfort Food Classic: Simple ingredients and timeless flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small white onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (29 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Ladle
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Beef:
- Add ground beef to the pot, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Prepare the Broth:
- Stir in beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, basil, oregano, thyme, and bay leaves. Mix well to combine.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let cook for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Cook the Macaroni:
- Stir in the elbow macaroni and let the soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Taste and Adjust:
- Remove bay leaves and taste the soup. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad.
Tips for the Best Beef Macaroni Soup
- Prevent Overcooked Pasta: Cook the macaroni separately if you plan to store leftovers, as the pasta will continue to absorb liquid over time.
- Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition, stir in diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers with the onions.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick.
Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations and Serving Suggestions
- Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace macaroni with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
- Make It a Meal: Pair with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad.
How to Store and Reheat
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to thin the soup.
- Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
FAQs
- Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well for a lighter version of this soup. - What other pasta shapes can I use?
Small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or penne work just as well. - Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the macaroni with gluten-free pasta or omit the pasta altogether.
