Warm up to a bowl of creamy Beef and Macaroni Soup, where tender ground beef meets perfectly cooked elbow macaroni in a hearty broth that feels like a hug on a chilly day. Each bite is bursting with savory flavors, while the sweet notes from fresh carrots and onions add a wonderful depth. This dish is ridiculously easy to whip up and uses pantry staples, making it a go-to for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s so creamy you won’t believe it doesn’t have any cream! Ready for a deliciously cozy dinner? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love Beef and Macaroni Soup (Creamy, Easy, and Cozy)
Beef and Macaroni Soup is truly one of those feel-good meals that everyone adores. The combination of hearty beef, comforting pasta, and rich broth creates a cozy dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s wonderfully creamy (without cream!), filling, and incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s versatile enough to make with whatever you have in your pantry. You’ll find yourself looking forward to leftovers!
Here are a few reasons you’ll adore this soup:
- Quick Prep: Ready in under an hour, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Comforting Texture: The chewy macaroni and tender beef create a pleasing mouthfeel.
- Pantry-Friendly: Uses common ingredients you probably already have at home.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: It stores well and is great for leftovers!
- Versatile for Dietary Needs: Easily modify for gluten-free or dairy-free diets.
- Kid-Approved: A delicious way to sneak in vegetables your kids might not normally eat.
Ingredients for Beef and Macaroni Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Adds richness and helps sauté veggies.
- 1 medium onion (diced) – Brings sweetness and depth to the flavor.
- 2 medium carrots (peeled and diced) – Contributes natural sweetness and color.
- 2 celery ribs (diced) – Adds a lovely crunch and enhances the broth.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced) – Infuses the soup with aromatic goodness.
- 1 pound ground beef (85% lean) – Provides a hearty, meaty flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste) – Enhances all the flavors in the soup.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a hint of warmth.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning – Lends an herbal touch to the dish.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice) – Offers acidity and a fresh taste.
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce – Creates that rich, velvety base.
- 4 cups beef broth – Forms the heart of our soup, making it robust.
- 2 cups water – Balances the flavors and textures.
- 1 cup elbow macaroni (uncooked) – The star player, adding heartiness.
- 1 cup frozen corn (optional) – Sweet bites of corn brighten the mix.
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish) – Elevates the presentation and adds freshness.
Ready to cook? See the recipe card for exact measurements below.
How to Make Beef and Macaroni Soup
Phase 1 – Prep
- Gather all your ingredients and chop your veggies.
- Dice the onion, carrots, and celery into bite-sized pieces.
- Mince the garlic and set it aside.
Phase 2 – Cook/Assemble
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
- Next, add the ground beef, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, along with the beef broth and water. Bring the soup to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and frozen corn (if using). Reduce heat and simmer until the pasta is cooked, about 8-10 minutes.
Phase 3 – Serve
- Stir the soup gently to combine all the flavors.
- Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley on top, and enjoy a delicious bowl of comfort!
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Use Lean Ground Beef: For a healthier option, swap to turkey or chicken.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook it just until tender; it’ll continue absorbing liquid!
- Opt for Homemade Broth: If you have time, homemade beef broth adds extra depth.
- Make It Spicy: Add crushed red peppers for a kick.
- Storage Tip: Use airtight containers to lock in freshness for leftovers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One mistake is overcooking the pasta—this will make your soup mushy instead of hearty! To fix it, add the pasta in later and check for doneness after a few minutes of cooking.
Another common error is not seasoning enough. Remember, the flavors will deepen as they cook, but they won’t magically become salty! Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Lastly, avoid using too much liquid. If your soup turns out thinner than you want, let it simmer uncovered to reduce the liquid. Just stir occasionally!
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-Free: Substitute elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta.
- Dairy-Free: Omit any dairy toppings for a lighter version.
- Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to heat things up!
- Herbal: Toss in fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for freshness.
- Instant Pot Version: Set to manual for 5 minutes and release for the same delicious result.
How to Serve Beef and Macaroni Soup
- Best Pairings: Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a balanced meal.
- Toppings & Garnishes: Sprinkle with cheese, croutons, or extra herbs for added texture.
- Drink Pairing: Pair with a light soda or iced tea for a refreshing combo.
Make Ahead & Storage
Can I Meal Prep This?
Yes! You can easily prep this dish ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container after it cools down.
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days in a sealed container.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Just remember that the pasta may become softer upon thawing.
Reheating
Reheat in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. If using the stove, warm over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if too thick.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Absolutely! Just add it in during the last few minutes of cooking to keep it tender but not mushy.
How to make it extra creamy without cream?
You can puree some of the cooked soup and stir it back in for a thicker, creamier texture.
Can I double it?
Definitely! Just ensure you have a large enough pot, as it makes great leftovers.
How to fix a too-thick soup?
If your soup turns out too thick, simply add a bit more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
Enjoy this delightful Beef and Macaroni Soup that’s creamy, hearty, and oh-so-satisfying! It’s a comforting classic that’s sure to become one of your favorites. If you try this recipe, don’t forget to rate it or share your thoughts in the comments. Want more cozy meals? Check out our soup category for more delicious options!
Beef and Macaroni Soup
Ingredients
For the soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Adds richness and helps sauté veggies.
- 1 medium onion (diced) Brings sweetness and depth to the flavor.
- 2 medium carrots (peeled and diced) Contributes natural sweetness and color.
- 2 ribs celery (diced) Adds a lovely crunch and enhances the broth.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced) Infuses the soup with aromatic goodness.
- 1 pound ground beef (85% lean) Provides a hearty, meaty flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt Enhances all the flavors in the soup.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper Adds a hint of warmth.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning Lends an herbal touch to the dish.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice) Offers acidity and a fresh taste.
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce Creates that rich, velvety base.
- 4 cups beef broth Forms the heart of our soup, making it robust.
- 2 cups water Balances the flavors and textures.
- 1 cup elbow macaroni (uncooked) The star player, adding heartiness.
- 1 cup frozen corn (optional) Sweet bites of corn brighten the mix.
- to taste Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish) Elevates the presentation and adds freshness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather all your ingredients and chop your veggies.
- Dice the onion, carrots, and celery into bite-sized pieces.
- Mince the garlic and set it aside.
Cooking
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Toss in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
- Next, add the ground beef, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce, along with the beef broth and water. Bring the soup to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni and frozen corn (if using). Reduce heat and simmer until the pasta is cooked, about 8-10 minutes.
Serving
- Stir the soup gently to combine all the flavors.
- Taste and adjust the seasonings if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley on top, and enjoy a delicious bowl of comfort!