Nothing beats the cozy comfort of a warm bowl when you’re craving something hearty yet fresh, and this Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe hits every note beautifully. It combines tender ground beef, luscious tomatoes, and perfectly cooked elbow macaroni in a flavorful broth that’s both satisfying and bright. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd, this soup balances rich, savory tastes with a touch of acidity, making each spoonful deeply comforting and utterly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun with this Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe. Each element plays a crucial role: the beef brings richness, the tomatoes lend vibrant color and tang, and the pasta adds just the right bite and heartiness.
- 1 pound ground beef: Choose lean ground beef for a balance of flavor without excess grease.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Provides a fragrant punch that wakes up the entire dish.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and warmth.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional): Introduces a smoky layer that complements the beef perfectly.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices: The star ingredient that adds juiciness and acidity.
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste: Thickens the broth and intensifies the tomato flavor.
- 6 cups beef broth (or chicken broth): The cozy, savory base that ties the soup together.
- 1 cup elbow macaroni (or small pasta): Adds fun texture and makes the soup filling.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds earthy and aromatic notes.
- ½ teaspoon sugar (optional): Helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish): Adds freshness and a pop of green color.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional garnish): For a salty, nutty finish that makes every bite richer.
How to Make Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it thoroughly, breaking it into small crumbles with your spoon or spatula. Once it’s browned and no longer pink, drain off any excess grease to keep the soup from getting oily. This step creates a meaty foundation packed with flavor.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Next, toss in the diced onion and sauté for about 3 to 5 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for just one minute until it’s fragrant—you want to coax out those aromatic oils without burning it. This combo builds a delicious base to layer the soup’s flavors.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in your canned diced tomatoes with their juices and tomato paste, then add the beef broth. Stir in the salt, pepper, smoked paprika if you opted for it, and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together really well, making sure to scrape any brown bits off the bottom of the pot for extra flavor. Bring this mixture up to a gentle boil—it’s like the heart of your soup coming to life.
Step 4: Cook the Macaroni
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and add the elbow macaroni. Simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom. Watch closely as the pasta softens and soaks up the tomato-rich broth, turning your soup into the perfect marriage of textures.
Step 5: Season and Adjust
Now’s the moment to taste your soup and tweak the seasoning. If it tastes a bit too acidic, sprinkle in a little sugar to round it out. Adjust salt and pepper as needed—this simple balancing act transforms your soup from just good to unforgettable.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle your stew-like, bubbling Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe into bowls and finish with a handful of fresh chopped parsley and a grating of Parmesan cheese if you like. These final touches bring brightness and richness that make every spoonful inviting.
How to Serve Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is more than just a pretty garnish here—it adds a fresh herbal note that livens up the soup. A good sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese also brings a lovely savory, umami boost, melting slightly into the hot broth for extra richness.
Side Dishes
A slice of warm, crusty bread is a classic partner to this soup, perfect for dunking and soaking up every last drop. If you prefer something lighter, a crisp green salad with a lemony vinaigrette balances the richness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party, serve the soup in rustic bread bowls for an eye-catching and edible presentation. You can also top each bowl with crispy fried onions or a dollop of sour cream for texture and tang. The Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe adapts well to your creative impulses—just have fun with it!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. Let it cool before sealing to maintain freshness—flavors meld even better after resting!
Freezing
If you want to stash some away, freeze the soup in portion-sized containers. Note that the pasta might soften a bit upon thawing, so consider undercooking it slightly if you plan to freeze. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much. The comforting flavors come back beautifully with just a bit of warmth.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will lighten up the soup. Keep in mind these meats are leaner and might require a bit more seasoning or a splash of oil for richness.
What can I substitute for elbow macaroni?
Any small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or even broken spaghetti work well. Just adjust cooking time as needed so pasta stays tender but not mushy.
Is smoked paprika necessary?
Smoked paprika is optional, but it adds a lovely smoky warmth that enhances the beef flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or a pinch of chili powder can be a good stand-in.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
You can easily swap ground beef for plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The tomatoes and seasonings still bring plenty of flavor to shine.
How do I prevent the pasta from overcooking?
Keep an eye on the simmering time once the pasta is added. Stir occasionally but not too vigorously. You can also cook the pasta separately and add it to bowls just before serving to avoid sogginess.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, you have to try this Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe. It’s approachable, satisfying, and endlessly comforting with flavors that hit the spot every time. Gather your ingredients and dive into this delicious, hearty soup that’s sure to become a beloved classic in your kitchen.
