If you’re after a bowl of pure, nostalgic comfort, look no further than Beef and Macaroni Soup. This one-pot wonder combines tender ground beef, hearty elbow macaroni, and a tomato-rich broth bursting with vegetables and aromatic spices. Every spoonful tastes homey and satisfying, just like the classic soups we grew up loving—and best of all, it comes together quickly with easy-to-find pantry staples. Cozy up to this crowd-pleasing favorite that’s perfect for busy weeknights or sharing with friends and family.

Beef and Macaroni Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Pulling together Beef and Macaroni Soup is a breeze thanks to simple, familiar ingredients. Each one plays its part by adding savory depth, bright color, or just the right texture. Let’s break down what you’ll need for the best flavor and comfort in every bowl!

Ground beef (1 lb): The heart of the soup, adding rich flavor and protein that makes this soup so filling.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For sautéing the beef and veggies, giving everything a subtle, fruity richness.
Yellow onion, diced (1 small): Sweet and mild, it melts right into the broth for gentle aromatics.
Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Just enough to add warmth and depth to every bite.
Diced tomatoes (1 15-oz can): These provide a fresh burst of tangy tomato flavor and color.
Tomato sauce (1 8-oz can): Adds body and richness, tying the broth together.
Beef broth (4 cups): The soup’s savory, slurpable backbone—use good-quality broth for the best result.
Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A fragrant blend of herbs gives the soup lovely complexity.
Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Gives a subtle smokiness and beautiful color.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning—taste as you go to get it just right.
Elbow macaroni (1 1/2 cups): Chewy, classic pasta that soaks up the savory broth perfectly.
Frozen mixed vegetables (1 cup): Peas, carrots, and corn add sweetness and make each spoonful colorful and nutritious.
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a final pop of freshness and a hint of green.

How to Make Beef and Macaroni Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as you go, until it’s browned all over. If there’s excess fat, drain it off, but leave just enough for flavor.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté everything together for about 3 to 4 minutes, or until the onion softens and the kitchen smells irresistibly savory. This simple step creates the flavorful base that makes Beef and Macaroni Soup so satisfying.

Step 3: Build the Broth

Stir in the canned diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, then pour in the beef broth. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, paprika, and a pinch or two of salt and pepper. Give it a good stir and bring the mixture to a steady boil.

Step 4: Simmer with Pasta and Veggies

Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Add the elbow macaroni and pour in the frozen mixed vegetables. Keep the pot uncovered and cook everything for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to help the pasta cook evenly and prevent sticking. You’ll know it’s ready when the macaroni is tender, and the soup is aromatic and vibrant.

Step 5: Taste and Finish

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed—don’t be shy with salt and pepper! Ladle the soup into bowls and, if you like, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve your Beef and Macaroni Soup piping hot and get ready to enjoy genuine comfort in a bowl.

How to Serve Beef and Macaroni Soup

Garnishes

A generous sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley does wonders for both the look and taste of Beef and Macaroni Soup. If you’re feeling extra fancy, try a dusting of grated Parmesan or a few dashes of red chili flakes for a kick. Crushed crackers or crunchy croutons added just before serving also bring lovely texture and a bakery-fresh vibe.

Side Dishes

Pair your steaming bowl of Beef and Macaroni Soup with thick slices of crusty bread, garlic toast, or soft dinner rolls for soaking up every delicious spoonful. A big green salad dressed simply with olive oil and vinegar adds freshness and contrast, balancing the hearty flavors of the soup. Or, for true comfort food perfection, try serving with buttery baked potatoes on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful touch, serve Beef and Macaroni Soup in bread bowls, or ladle it into wide-mouthed mugs for an easy, handheld meal by the fire. Hosting friends? Set up a soup bar with small bowls of toppings—parmesan, herbs, hot sauce, or mini crackers—so everyone can customize their own. Even in lunchboxes, a thermos of this soup with a side of veggie sticks or fresh fruit is a lunch you’ll look forward to all morning.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Whether you’re meal prepping or just lucky enough to have leftovers, Beef and Macaroni Soup stores like a dream. Cool the soup completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. You’ll find that the flavors deepen and meld, making the next bowl possibly even better than the first!

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze Beef and Macaroni Soup in single-serving containers or freezer bags (just remember to leave a bit of space at the top for expansion). If possible, cook the pasta separately and add it in when reheating, so it doesn’t get overly soft. The soup will keep beautifully in the freezer for up to two months—perfect for busy nights when you need an effortless, homemade meal.

Reheating

To reheat, simply transfer the soup to a saucepan and warm gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally until piping hot. If the macaroni has absorbed extra broth while stored, just add a splash of water or beef broth to loosen it up. For a quick lunch, you can microwave individual servings in a covered bowl, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Both ground turkey and chicken work well as substitutes for beef in Beef and Macaroni Soup. Expect a lighter flavor, but with all the comforting goodness still intact—feel free to adjust seasonings to your taste.

How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?

To keep your macaroni perfectly al dente, cook it separately and add it to each bowl just before serving. This method helps prevent the pasta from soaking up too much broth as it sits, especially if you’re making the soup ahead of time.

What vegetables can I add or swap?

You can get creative with the veggie mix in Beef and Macaroni Soup! Try adding bell peppers, celery, zucchini, or extra greens like spinach at the end of cooking. Frozen mixed vegetables make things quick and convenient, but fresh ones work too.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

While traditional elbow macaroni contains gluten, you can easily swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta to keep Beef and Macaroni Soup celiac-friendly. Just be sure to watch the pasta as it cooks, since gluten-free varieties can soften faster.

What’s the best way to double the recipe for a crowd?

Doubling Beef and Macaroni Soup is a snap—just use a larger pot and double every ingredient. The cooking steps stay the same, but simmer for a couple extra minutes if needed to ensure everything is evenly cooked. It’s a fantastic, affordable way to feed a hungry crowd!

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about simmering a pot of Beef and Macaroni Soup on the stovetop—it instantly transforms any night into a cozy, comforting experience. If you haven’t made this timeless soup before, you’re in for a happy surprise. Give it a try, and watch it become a new staple around your table!

Beef and Macaroni Soup Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 11 reviews

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

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty and comforting Beef and Macaroni Soup recipe that is perfect for a cozy dinner. This soup is loaded with ground beef, veggies, and macaroni in a flavorful broth.

Ingredients

Scale

Ground Beef Mixture:

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

Soup Base:

1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
4 cups beef broth
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Additional Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare Beef Mixture: In a large pot, cook ground beef in olive oil until browned. Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
Build Soup: Stir in tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, seasonings. Bring to a boil.
Add Pasta and Veggies: Mix in macaroni, frozen vegetables. Simmer until pasta is tender.
Finish and Serve: Adjust seasoning, ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley. Serve hot.