Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe: A Hearty Comfort Food
If you’re in the mood for a warm, comforting, and hearty meal, Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup is the perfect choice! This delicious soup combines lean ground beef, tomatoes, and elbow macaroni in a rich and flavorful broth, making it an ideal dish for chilly days or when you’re craving a wholesome bowl of soup. Packed with nutrients and satisfying ingredients, this recipe is a family favorite that’s simple to make and perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients for Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- ½ cup onion, diced
- 6 cups beef broth
- 14 ounces diced tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni (uncooked)
- 1 ½ cups frozen mixed vegetables
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula, until it is fully browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed to keep the soup lean and healthy.
2. Sauté the Onion
Add the diced onion to the browned beef and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent. The onions will add sweetness and depth of flavor to the soup base.
3. Add the Broth and Tomatoes
Once the onions are tender, stir in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Add the tomato paste to thicken the soup and enrich the flavor. The tomatoes will bring a tangy sweetness, while the beef broth will provide a savory and rich base.
4. Season the Soup
Add the Worcestershire sauce, oregano, and dried basil to the pot. These spices and seasonings enhance the flavor profile of the soup, giving it a balanced and aromatic taste. Stir the mixture well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
5. Bring to a Simmer
Allow the soup to come to a gentle simmer. Once it reaches a simmer, let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, so the flavors meld together. This step allows the beef and broth to fully infuse with the seasoning.
6. Add the Macaroni and Vegetables
Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni and frozen mixed vegetables. The pasta will absorb some of the broth as it cooks, making the soup thicker and more filling. The vegetables add color, texture, and extra nutrients to the dish. Continue to cook the soup for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the vegetables are heated through.
7. Final Taste Check
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as necessary. If you prefer a saltier soup, add a pinch of salt or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavors further.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and serve hot. This Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup is perfect on its own, or you can pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup is a quick, easy, and nutritious dish that the whole family will love. With tender beef, savory broth, and the heartiness of macaroni and vegetables, it’s a comforting soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this delightful meal that will warm you up from the inside out!