Hearty One-Pot Beef Macaroni Soup: An Easy & Comforting Family Meal
There’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of homemade soup to chase away the chill of a cool evening. This heartybeef macaroni soup is an absolute weeknight lifesaver – an incredibly easy one-pot recipe that brings together savory ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and fragrant Italian herbs in a rich, flavorful tomato-based broth. It’s the kind of stick-to-your-ribs meal that feels like a warm hug, making it absolutely perfect for chilly weather or any time you need a deliciously satisfying dinner on the table quickly.
This classic comfort food staple is beloved for its simplicity and depth of flavor. Imagine succulent ground beef simmered with aromatic onions and garlic, bathed in a tangy tomato broth, and finished with perfectly cooked macaroni noodles. It’s a delightful cross between a traditional goulash and a classic beef and noodle soup, offering that familiar, comforting taste everyone adores. If you’re a fan of recipes like beef and noodle soup or anything featuring ground beef and pasta, this hearty beef and macaroni soup is guaranteed to become a new family favorite. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to prepare using everyday pantry ingredients and can be ready on your stovetop in just about 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings!
Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Easy Beef Macaroni Soup Recipe
- Incredibly Flavorful. This beef macaroni soup is bursting with a symphony of rich, savory flavors. The seasoned ground beef forms a robust foundation, while tangy crushed tomatoes provide a vibrant acidity that perfectly balances the dish. A blend of classic Italian herbs infuses the broth with aromatic notes, creating a deeply satisfying taste profile that will tantalize your taste buds. Each spoonful offers a harmonious combination of tender beef, flavorful broth, and soft, comforting pasta, making it a truly delicious experience.
- Remarkably Quick to Prepare. When time is of the essence, this hearty soup truly shines. It’s designed for speed, coming together effortlessly on the stovetop in approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. The prep work is minimal – while your ground beef is browning, you can quickly chop your onion and mince your garlic, allowing the rest of the recipe to unfold seamlessly. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you need a wholesome, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Convenient One-Pot Wonder. Perhaps one of the most appealing aspects of this beef macaroni soup is its one-pot nature. Every component, including the pasta, cooks directly in a single pot. This not only streamlines the cooking process but also means significantly less cleanup afterward. Cooking the macaroni directly in the savory broth allows it to absorb all those wonderful flavors, resulting in a more integrated and delicious soup experience. Fewer dishes mean more time to enjoy your meal and relax!
Essential Ingredients for Your Beef Macaroni Soup
Crafting this flavorful soup requires only a handful of simple, accessible ingredients that pack a huge punch. Below, you’ll find a breakdown of what you’ll need, along with some helpful notes and substitution ideas to tailor the recipe to your preferences or what you have on hand. For precise measurements and full recipe details, please remember to scroll down to the complete recipe card at the bottom of this page.
- Ground Beef – The star of our soup! I recommend using a lean ground beef (like 80/20 or 90/10) to minimize excess grease. However, you can easily adapt this recipe with other ground meats. Ground chicken or ground turkey offer lighter alternatives, while ground pork sausage can add a wonderfully rich and spicy kick, especially if you opt for Italian sausage.
- Onion and Garlic – These aromatic powerhouses form the foundational flavor base for our soup. Finely minced onion will melt into the broth, adding a subtle sweetness and depth, while fresh minced garlic provides that indispensable pungent aroma. Using fresh is always best for maximum flavor!
- Herbs – My secret weapon for this soup is my homemade Italian seasoning blend, which brings a balanced mix of flavors. If you don’t have a blend, don’t worry! You can easily use individual dried herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, or rosemary, or a combination thereof. A teaspoon of each (oregano, basil) typically works well. For an extra pop of freshness, stir in some fresh chopped parsley or basil just before serving.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance all the other flavors. Always taste and adjust to your preference, especially after the soup has simmered for a bit.
- Beef Broth – A good quality low-sodium beef broth or stock is crucial for the liquid base. Using low-sodium allows you to control the saltiness of the finished soup. You can always add more salt, but you can’t take it away!
- Canned Tomatoes – Crushed tomatoes are my go-to for their smooth texture and rich tomato flavor, but diced tomatoes work perfectly if you prefer a chunkier texture. If you only have whole canned tomatoes, simply crush them by hand or with a spoon before adding them to the pot. Don’t drain the liquid; it’s packed with flavor!
- Macaroni – Classic dry elbow macaroni pasta is traditional for this soup, offering that perfect bite-sized noodle. However, feel free to experiment with other short pasta varieties like ditalini, small shells, or even rotini if that’s what you have in your pantry.
- Tomato Sauce – A can of your favorite jarred tomato sauce (or even plain passata) adds an extra layer of tomato richness and helps thicken the broth slightly, giving it that hearty consistency we crave.
How to Prepare This Hearty Beef and Macaroni Soup
Forget the hassle of cooking pasta in a separate pot! This recipe embraces the beauty of one-pot cooking, allowing the macaroni noodles to cook directly in the flavorful broth. This not only saves you dishes but also infuses the pasta with incredible taste. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to making this delicious beef macaroni soup in just 30 minutes:
- Brown the Beef and Sauté Aromatics. Begin by heating a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add your ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once the beef starts to brown, add the finely chopped onions and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and the onions are tender and translucent, about 5-6 minutes. This browning step is crucial for developing deep, savory flavors. Carefully drain any excess grease from the pot to prevent the soup from becoming oily. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Season the Meat and Build the Broth. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper over the browned beef and onion mixture. Stir everything together well, ensuring the meat is evenly coated with the spices. This step allows the herbs and seasonings to toast slightly and release their full aroma. Next, pour in the beef broth and the crushed tomatoes (do not drain the tomatoes – that liquid is packed with flavor!). Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients, then bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly to maintain a gentle simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add the Macaroni and Simmer. After the broth has simmered and the flavors have deepened, it’s time to add the pasta. Stir in the dry elbow macaroni along with the tomato sauce. Ensure the macaroni is fully submerged in the liquid. Continue to cook the soup for another 7-8 minutes, or according to the package directions for your specific pasta, until the macaroni is al dente (tender but still firm to the bite). Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Serve Immediately! Once the pasta is perfectly cooked, your hearty beef macaroni soup is ready to enjoy. Ladle generous portions into individual bowls. For an extra touch of freshness and color, garnish with some freshly chopped basil or parsley, and perhaps a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and savor this comforting, homemade meal!
Expert Tips for the Best Beef Macaroni Soup
Achieving the perfect beef and macaroni soup is easy with a few simple guidelines. Here are some quick notes and handy tips to ensure your soup turns out exactly to your liking, bursting with flavor and comforting warmth:
- Don’t Drain the Canned Tomatoes. When using canned crushed or diced tomatoes, resist the urge to drain off the liquid! The juice in the can is full of rich tomato flavor and contributes significantly to the body and taste of your soup’s broth. Adding it all ensures maximum flavor and the right consistency.
- Make-Ahead Considerations. If you plan to prepare this beef macaroni soup in advance, or if you anticipate having leftovers, consider cooking the macaroni separately. Pasta can absorb a lot of liquid and become overly soft or mushy when left to sit in the broth for extended periods. In this case, prepare the soup base (beef, broth, tomatoes, seasonings) and store it. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the soup base, cook a fresh batch of macaroni noodles, and add them directly to individual bowls, or stir them into the entire pot just before serving. This ensures perfectly al dente pasta every time.
- Seasoning in Layers: Start Small, Taste, and Adjust. It’s a common mistake to over-season soups right at the beginning of the cooking process. As the soup simmers, the flavors concentrate and become more pronounced. Always start with the recommended amounts of herbs and spices, then taste the soup towards the end of the cooking time. You can always add more salt, pepper, or herbs to suit your preference, but it’s difficult to correct an overly seasoned dish.
- Pasta Cooking Times Can Vary. While I’ve provided a general cooking time for macaroni, keep in mind that the exact time can vary depending on the brand, type, and even the specific shape of pasta you’re using. Always refer to the package directions for the most accurate cooking times. The goal is “al dente” – tender but with a slight bite – so taste a noodle or two periodically to ensure it reaches your desired doneness.
- Enhance Flavor with a Secret Ingredient. For an extra layer of umami and depth, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar along with the beef broth. These ingredients can significantly boost the savory notes of the beef and tomatoes without overpowering the soup.
- Achieving the Perfect Broth Consistency. If your soup appears too thick after the macaroni has cooked, don’t hesitate to add a bit more beef broth or even water until it reaches your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to allow some liquid to evaporate and the broth to thicken naturally.
Delicious & Easy Variations to Customize Your Soup
This beef macaroni soup recipe is wonderfully versatile, allowing for numerous adaptations to suit your tastes, dietary needs, or simply to use up ingredients you have on hand. Don’t be afraid to get creative! Here are some fantastic ideas to customize your next batch:
- Experiment with Different Pasta Shapes. While classic elbow macaroni gives this soup its name, you can absolutely use almost any other small or medium pasta shape you prefer. Try fusilli, cavatappi, penne, rotini, ditalini, or even small shells. Each shape will offer a slightly different texture and mouthfeel, but the delicious flavor of the broth will remain the star. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as they may vary.
- Swap Out the Protein. For a lighter option, replace the ground beef with ground turkey or ground chicken. These leaner alternatives will still provide plenty of protein and soak up the wonderful flavors of the broth. If you’re looking for a different flavor profile, spicy Italian pork sausage (casings removed) can add a fantastic zest and depth.
- Boost with Added Vegetables. This soup is a perfect canvas for incorporating extra nutrients and fresh flavors. Add fresh, frozen, or leftover vegetables to the pot. Easy and delicious options include corn kernels, sliced green beans, peas, diced carrots, or even small potato cubes. For carrots and potatoes, add them with the broth to ensure they have enough time to cook until tender. Spinach or kale can be stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking until wilted.
- Introduce Beans for Extra Fiber and Texture. For a heartier soup or a vegetarian twist, stir in a can of black beans, kidney beans, or cannellini (white Northern) beans. Remember to drain and rinse them thoroughly before adding. If you want to make this recipe completely vegetarian, simply swap the ground meat for a generous amount of beans and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Turn Up the Heat with Spicy Additions. If you enjoy a bit of a kick, it’s easy to make this soup spicy! Add a pinch or two of crushed red pepper flakes along with the Italian seasoning. You could also stir in diced green chilies, a dash of your favorite hot sauce, or even a tablespoon of taco seasoning for a Tex-Mex inspired twist.
- Make it Creamy. For a richer, creamier soup, stir in about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half during the last few minutes of cooking, just before serving. This adds a luxurious texture and mellows the acidity of the tomatoes slightly.
- Cheese, Please! No comforting soup is complete without cheese. Stir in some shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of Italian cheeses during the last minute of cooking for a melty, cheesy goodness. Or, simply serve bowls topped with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese.
What to Serve Alongside Beef Macaroni Soup
A steaming bowl of beef macaroni soup is a satisfying meal on its own, especially when sprinkled with a generous dusting of Parmesan cheese and garnished with fresh parsley. However, it also pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes that complete the meal. Here are some of our favorite accompaniments:
- Crusty Bread or Rolls: A classic pairing! Serve with homemade garlic bread, warm crescent rolls, or simple slices of crusty French bread. They’re perfect for soaking up every last drop of that rich, tomatoey broth. You could also try these irresistible Parmesan Garlic Knots or classic French Bread Rolls.
- Fresh Green Salad: A light, crisp salad provides a wonderful contrast to the hearty soup. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is always a good choice. For something a little more substantial, consider a Chicken Caesar Salad, Tomato Mozzarella Salad, or even a vibrant Mediterranean Quinoa Salad.
- Sandwiches: For a heartier lunch or dinner, pair the soup with half of a delicious sandwich. A classic Turkey Club Sandwich or a simple grilled cheese sandwich makes for a truly comforting combination.
Storing and Reheating Leftover Beef Macaroni Soup
One of the best things about homemade soup is that it often tastes even better the next day! To properly store leftover beef macaroni soup, first allow it to cool completely to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for 3-5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can easily reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, or in the microwave in individual portions. As the soup sits, the macaroni will continue to absorb liquid and the soup may thicken significantly. If needed, add a splash of additional beef broth or water when reheating to achieve your desired consistency.
Can I Freeze Beef Macaroni Soup?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze this delicious beef macaroni soup for future meals! It’s a fantastic make-ahead option. To freeze, ensure the soup has cooled completely. Then, transfer it to freezer-safe Ziploc bags (laying them flat to freeze saves space) or sturdy airtight containers, leaving a little headspace for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. When thawed, the pasta may become a bit softer than when freshly cooked, or even slightly mushy, as it continues to absorb liquid and break down. If you know you’ll be freezing a large batch of soup, a pro tip is to cook the soup base (without the pasta) and freeze that. Then, when you’re ready to serve, thaw the soup base and cook fresh macaroni to stir in during the reheating process. This method ensures optimal pasta texture every time.
Discover More Comforting Soup Recipes to Try
If you love the warmth and ease of this beef macaroni soup, you’re in for a treat! We have a wide array of other comforting and delicious soup recipes that are perfect for any occasion. From hearty stews to creamy purees, there’s a soup for every craving:
- Crockpot Potato Soup – Creamy and effortless!
- Tomato Tortellini Soup – A cheesy, vibrant delight.
- Cheeseburger Soup – All your favorite burger flavors in a bowl.
- Easy Taco Soup – Quick, spicy, and satisfying.
- Lasagna Soup – The comfort of lasagna, in soup form!
- Beef Barley Soup – Classic, hearty, and packed with flavor.
Beef Macaroni Soup
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Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- ½ small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 5 cups low sodium beef broth
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups uncooked macaroni
- 15 oz tomato sauce
Instructions
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Heat a large, heavy-bottomed stock pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Add the finely chopped onions to the pot and mix them with the beef. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned and the onions are softened. Carefully drain any excess grease from the pot. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant.1 pound lean ground beef, ½ small onion, 3 cloves garlic
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Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the browned beef and onion mixture, stirring well to combine and coat the meat. Pour in the beef broth and the entire can of crushed tomatoes (do not drain). Stir everything together thoroughly. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.2 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 5 cups low sodium beef broth, 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
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Stir in the uncooked macaroni pasta and the tomato sauce. Ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Continue to boil (or simmer vigorously) for about 7-8 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and cooked through to an al dente consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.2 cups uncooked macaroni, 15 oz tomato sauce
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Once the pasta is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Ladle your delicious beef macaroni soup into bowls. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or basil if desired, and perhaps a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy!
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
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