Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe
If you’re craving a bowl of comfort with a twist, this Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a hearty, flavorful soup that brings together tender ground beef, vibrant tomatoes, and perfect macaroni in a rich, tomato-forward broth. Every spoonful warms you up from the inside while providing just the right balance of spices and textures, making it a beloved favorite for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Trust me, once you try this soup, it will become your go-to for cozy nights.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple but essential ingredients is the first step to creating a soup that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Each item plays its role, from creating the savory base to adding color and heartiness to the dish.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Perfect for sautéing and bringing out the sweetness in the vegetables without overpowering the flavors.
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when softened.
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped: Brings a fresh, slightly crisp note and a pop of green color.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that warm, aromatic punch that lifts the whole soup.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein component that makes this soup filling and comforting.
- 2 teaspoons chili powder: Introduces a mild kick and smoky warmth to the flavor profile.
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano: Adds an earthy, herbaceous note to balance the tomatoes.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without being overwhelming.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: A subtle heat that complements the chili powder perfectly.
- 2 (10.75-ounce) cans condensed cream of tomato soup: Provides a creamy, tangy tomato base that enriches the broth’s texture.
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Delivers fresh tomato bursts and extra juiciness.
- 32 ounces beef broth: Builds a deep, meaty foundation for the soup’s liquid portion.
- 4 cups water: Used to balance the soup’s consistency and keep it light enough to sip.
- 2 cups uncooked pasta: Adds chewiness and heartiness, making the soup a satisfying meal.
How to Make Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the vegetables
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Toss in the finely chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook them gently for 5 to 6 minutes until they soften and release their delicious aromas. This step creates a flavorful base that carries through the soup.
Step 2: Brown the ground beef
Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Brown it thoroughly, making sure no pink remains. Once cooked, drain any excess fat—it helps keep the soup rich without being greasy, ensuring every bite feels just right.
Step 3: Season the meat
Sprinkle in the chili powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir the spices into the meat and vegetables, cooking for another 1 to 2 minutes to awaken their fragrance. This seasoning layer gives the soup its signature depth and warmth.
Step 4: Add tomato and broth ingredients
Pour in the condensed cream of tomato soup, the entire can of diced tomatoes with their juice, 32 ounces of beef broth, and 4 cups of water. Stir everything together thoroughly so the creaminess and freshness of the tomatoes meld beautifully with the broth.
Step 5: Cook the pasta
Bring the pot to a lively boil, then add the uncooked pasta. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the pot. Let the soup cook until the pasta is cooked perfectly al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This process takes about 10 minutes and gives the soup a wonderful body and texture.
Step 6: Final seasoning and serve
Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Sometimes a pinch more salt or pepper makes all the difference. Serve this cozy bowl warm, and get ready to enjoy a meal that feels both homey and indulgent.
How to Serve Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Top your soup with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a handful of shredded cheddar cheese for a burst of color and an extra flavor boost. A swirl of sour cream or a few chopped green onions can also add creaminess and a mild tang that complements the rich tomato base wonderfully.
Side Dishes
Pair this soup with a crusty slice of garlic bread or a soft dinner roll to soak up every last drop. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette makes for a refreshing contrast, balancing the soup’s richness and rounding out the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out mini bread bowls or individual crockpots during gatherings. You can also add a dash of hot sauce or a few chili flakes if you enjoy an extra kick. Personalized toppings on the table allow everyone to tailor their bowls and keep things lively.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring to an airtight container. The flavors deepen overnight, making your leftovers just as delicious, if not better, than freshly made soup.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this soup freezes well. Place it in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It’s best to add cooked pasta fresh after thawing, as freezing can sometimes change its texture. Store for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If frozen with pasta, add fresh cooked macaroni after heating the soup base. You can also warm through individual portions in the microwave, just be sure to cover loosely to keep moisture in.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni works great in this soup, small pasta shapes like ditalini, shells, or mini penne can be great substitutes. Just keep in mind the cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the pasta texture.
Is this soup spicy?
It has a mild warmth from the chili powder, but it’s not overly spicy. You can always adjust the heat by adding more chili powder or a dash of cayenne pepper if you want a bolder kick.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
You can adapt this recipe by substituting the ground beef with plant-based crumbles and using vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The flavors will shift a bit, but it remains equally comforting and delicious.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without overcooking the pasta?
To avoid mushy pasta, store the pasta separately or add fresh cooked pasta when reheating the soup. Heat the soup until hot, then stir in the pasta just before serving.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables on the stove first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Add the canned soups, tomatoes, broth, and water, and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add pasta near the end and cook until al dente.
Final Thoughts
This Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe feels like a warm hug in a bowl, with simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. It’s easy to make, deeply satisfying, and perfect for any day you want a little extra comfort. I hope you enjoy making and sharing it as much as I do!
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Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A hearty and comforting Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup that combines ground beef, aromatic vegetables, and a rich tomato base with tender pasta, simmered together to create a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for any day.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Meat
- 1 pound ground beef
Spices & Seasonings
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Liquids & Soups
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 (10.75-ounce) cans condensed cream of tomato soup
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 32 ounces beef broth
- 4 cups water
Pasta
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (macaroni preferred)
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook it until browned, using a spoon to break it apart evenly. Once cooked through, drain any excess fat from the pot to avoid greasy soup.
- Add Spices: Stir in chili powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to release the flavors and aromas of the spices.
- Add Tomato Soup and Liquids: Pour in the condensed cream of tomato soup, diced tomatoes along with their juice, beef broth, and water. Stir the mixture thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer with Pasta: Bring the pot to a boil. Once boiling, add the uncooked pasta. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let simmer, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked al dente—about 10-12 minutes.
- Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- Drain excess fat after browning the ground beef to keep the soup from being greasy.
- Use macaroni or any small pasta shape that cooks evenly and absorbs flavors well.
- Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom.
- This soup can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop.
- For a thicker soup, reduce the amount of water or simmer uncovered for a few minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American