Easy Beef and Macaroni Soup Recipe (One-Pot Comfort)
Introduction
Beef and Macaroni Soup is a classic comfort food that warms both body and soul. This hearty, one-pot meal is perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something satisfying and delicious. Ground beef soup recipes one pot meals hearty soup recipes comfort food easy weeknight dinners beef pasta soup are always a hit, and this recipe is no exception.
As a chef who’s traveled the world, I’ve encountered countless variations of beef and pasta soups. But there’s something special about this Beef and Macaroni Soup that keeps me coming back. It’s a harmonious blend of savory ground beef, tender macaroni, and a rich, flavorful broth that’s simply irresistible.
Why is it Perfect for You?
This Beef and Macaroni Soup is the epitome of convenience and comfort. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s:
◾ Quick and easy to prepare
◾ Perfect for busy weeknights
◾ Ideal for meal prep
◾ Customizable to your taste
◾ Budget-friendly
◾ Crowd-pleasing for all ages
Ingredients List
◾ 1 lb lean ground beef
◾ 1 medium onion, diced
◾ 2 cloves garlic, minced
◾ 2 carrots, diced
◾ 2 celery stalks, chopped
◾ 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
◾ 6 cups beef broth
◾ 2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
◾ 1 tsp dried oregano
◾ 1 tsp dried basil
◾ Salt and pepper to taste
◾ 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation Time and Servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat, leaving just a bit for flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the diced onion, minced garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and the onions become translucent.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Stir in the diced tomatoes, oregano, and basil. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 4: Pour in the Broth
Add the beef broth to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Add the elbow macaroni to the simmering soup. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy your comforting Beef and Macaroni Soup!
Nutritional Information
This Beef and Macaroni Soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. It’s packed with protein from the beef, carbohydrates from the pasta, and vitamins from the vegetables.
Calories per Person
Each serving of this hearty soup contains approximately 350-400 calories, making it a satisfying meal without being overly heavy.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
To make this recipe even healthier, consider these alternatives:
◾ Use whole wheat pasta instead of regular macaroni
◾ Substitute ground turkey for beef
◾ Add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini
◾ Use low-sodium beef broth
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Beef and Macaroni Soup with:
◾ Crusty whole grain bread
◾ A side salad
◾ Grated Parmesan cheese on top
◾ A dollop of sour cream for added richness
Common Mistakes to Avoid
◾ Overcooking the pasta – it will continue to cook in the hot soup
◾ Not seasoning adequately – taste and adjust as you go
◾ Using high-fat ground beef – opt for lean to keep the soup from being greasy
Storing Tips for the Recipe
This soup stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, you may need to add a bit of water or broth as the pasta will absorb liquid as it sits.
FAQs
Can I freeze this Beef and Macaroni Soup?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. However, the pasta may become a bit mushy upon thawing and reheating.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything except the pasta to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, adding the pasta in the last 30 minutes.
Is this soup spicy?
This recipe is mild, but you can add red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you prefer a spicier version.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to use any small pasta shape you like. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Conclusion
This Beef and Macaroni Soup is a testament to the beauty of simple, hearty cooking. It’s a dish that brings comfort and satisfaction with every spoonful. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. So, grab your pot and get cooking – a delicious, comforting meal awaits!
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Share your experience with us
OOLALA
This turned out so awesome they look like they came from a exspensive bakery.
Just a question
So what about the grease from the meat? Should I use the leanest meats or is the grease give more flavor.
What about a meatloaf on top of veggies ? Would that work?
Ingredients list good, directions lacking
There were great details on quantities of ingredients I should use, but the recipe didn’t tell me the cook time. Also, mentioned in the section about “common mistakes” that you need to let it chill enough but doesn’t direct you in the recipe that you need to let it chill. More details would be helpful
Dressing is perfect!
Not a big fan of mayo, loved the Greek yogurt swap. Reduced garlic a bit. Dressing was delish!
Best coffee cake- ever!!
This recipe was not the easiest to follow due to how it was written. It requires a lot of back and forth from instructions to the lists of ingredients but oh, hey, the end result is totally worth the effort! Mouthwatering and delicious plus it’s a pretty presentation.
