Beef Macaroni Soup
When you’re looking for a soup that’s as comforting as it is filling and delicious, look no further than Beef Macaroni Soup. I remember loving this soup during my childhood, even though at the time I claimed to hate all soups. Thanks to its beefy tomato flavor and tender macaroni, it’s the kind of soup that kids just can’t seem to resist. But really, that goes for kids of all ages, from two right on up to one hundred and two.
Don’t worry, this isn’t the type of soup you have to simmer all day to achieve optimum flavor. It comes together in just about thirty minutes, and it’s a simple, straightforward process without a ton of ingredients.
You start with onion, garlic, and ground beef that you brown up in a pot. Then, you simmer it in a mixture of beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, basil, oregano, thyme, and bay leaves. It simmers just until it thickens a bit and the flavors meld together, about ten minutes or so.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Beef Macaroni Soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. It’s quick to make, hearty, and wholesome, making it an ideal meal for busy weeknights. The soup is both comforting and satisfying, with a savory richness that comes from the beef and tomato base. Plus, it’s a hit with the entire family!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
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
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Add the ground beef to the pot and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is no longer pink. If needed, drain off any excess fat.
- Stir in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, basil, oregano, thyme, and bay leaves.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 10 minutes.
- Stir in the elbow macaroni and continue simmering until the pasta is tender, about 10 minutes more.
- Adjust the seasoning as needed and enjoy!
Tips for Success
For the best flavor, be sure to let the soup simmer long enough for the flavors to meld together. Also, taste and adjust the seasoning before serving to ensure it’s just right for your palate.
Additional Tips or Variations
Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the soup.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This soup is a great source of protein and carbohydrates, providing a balanced meal option. The beef provides essential amino acids, while the tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make this soup ahead of time? Yes, this soup stores well in the refrigerator and can be reheated when needed.
Can I freeze this soup? Absolutely! Just be aware that the texture of the pasta may change slightly when thawed and reheated.
Conclusion
Give this hearty Beef Macaroni Soup a try and let it warm your soul. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to become a family favorite. We’d love to hear about your experience and any creative twists you add to the recipe. Enjoy!