Beef and Macaroni Soup: A Comforting Classic for Cozy Evenings

Beef and Macaroni Soup: A Comforting Classic for Cozy Evenings

There’s nothing like a bowl of Beef and Macaroni Soup to wrap you in warmth on a chilly evening. Packed with savory ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a flavorful tomato-based broth, this recipe is a nostalgic nod to comfort food at its finest. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s easy to prepare and loved by the whole family!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Easy to Make: A straightforward, one-pot meal that’s ready in less than an hour.
2. Nutritious and Hearty: Loaded with protein, vegetables, and carbs for a balanced, filling dish.
3. Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or swap elbow macaroni for another pasta shape.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound ground beef (preferably lean)
• ½ cup finely chopped red onion
• 6 cups beef stock (for a rich and savory base)
• 14 ounces fresh chopped tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons sundried tomato puree
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon oregano
• ½ teaspoon sweet basil
• 1 ½ cups uncooked elbow pasta
• 1 ½ cups frozen mixed vegetables
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Onion

1. In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Drain any excess fat for a leaner soup base.

Step 2: Create the Flavorful Broth

1. Add beef stock, chopped tomatoes, sundried tomato puree, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, and sweet basil to the pot.
2. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes to develop the flavors.

Step 3: Add the Pasta and Vegetables

1. Stir in the uncooked elbow pasta and frozen mixed vegetables. Simmer for about 8 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but still firm.

Step 4: Season and Serve

1. Taste the soup and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to your liking.
2. Ladle into bowls and, if desired, sprinkle with shredded cheese. Serve with warm, crusty bread for a complete meal.

Chef’s Notes

• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to use fresh garden vegetables or canned options like corn, green beans, or peas.
• Make it Spicy: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Leftovers Tip: The soup thickens as it sits due to the pasta absorbing liquid. Add a splash of beef stock or water when reheating.

Serving & Storage Tips

• Serving Suggestions: Pair this soup with a fresh garden salad or a side of garlic bread for a cozy, satisfying meal.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
• Freezing: Beef and Macaroni Soup freezes well! Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Recipe Variations

1. Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable stock instead of beef stock.
2. Gluten-Free Version: Swap regular elbow macaroni for a gluten-free pasta variety.
3. Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in a handful of shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese for a creamy twist.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for You

This Beef and Macaroni Soup is a go-to dish for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a crowd. Its rich flavor and comforting texture make it a favorite among kids and adults alike. Plus, with simple pantry staples, you can whip this up anytime!