Welcome to our comforting soup collection! Today, we’re sharing a delicious and satisfying recipe for Beef and Macaroni Soup. This hearty soup is perfect for a cozy meal, combining tender beef, savory tomatoes, and pasta in a flavorful broth. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- ½ cup ketchup
- 2 large cans of chopped or diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 3 tsp minced garlic
- 7 ¼ cups of beef broth
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups dry macaroni pasta
- Cheese for garnish, if desired
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the lean ground beef over medium heat until browned. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 2: Add Aromatics and Tomatoes
- Add Garlic and Onion Powder: Stir in the minced garlic and onion powder. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Ketchup: Add the chopped or diced tomatoes and ketchup to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings
- Add Broth: Pour in the beef broth and stir to combine.
- Season the Soup: Add the Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to mix all the ingredients.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
- Bring to a Boil: Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
- Add Macaroni: Stir in the dry macaroni pasta.
- Cook the Pasta: Continue to simmer the soup for another 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but still firm to the bite (al dente). Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated cheese if desired. Serve hot.
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Pasta: To prevent the pasta from becoming too soft, you can cook it separately and add it to the soup just before serving.
- Vegetables: Add more vegetables such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Variations
Spicy Beef and Macaroni Soup
Add 1-2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.
Cheesy Beef and Macaroni Soup
Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese just before serving for a cheesy version.
Vegetable-Loaded Beef and Macaroni Soup
Add chopped vegetables such as carrots, celery, zucchini, or bell peppers along with the tomatoes for a more nutrient-dense soup.
Gluten-Free Version
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients, such as the Worcestershire sauce, are gluten-free.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works well in this recipe.
How can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Brown the beef and add all ingredients except the pasta to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the pasta during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup. However, it’s best to cook the pasta separately and add it when reheating to prevent it from becoming mushy.
What type of cheese works best for garnish?
Cheddar, Parmesan, or mozzarella cheese all make excellent choices for garnishing this soup.
How do I prevent the soup from being too greasy?
Use lean ground beef and drain any excess fat after browning the meat.
This Hearty Beef and Macaroni Soup is a comforting and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients make it a favorite among both kids and adults. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful soup with your family and friends!
