If you’re craving a comforting bowl that’s hearty yet simple to make, this Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a delicious blend of savory ground beef, tangy tomatoes, and tender macaroni all simmered together in a rich broth that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Every spoonful bursts with vibrant flavors and textures that make it perfect for feeding a crowd or making great leftovers. Trust me, once you try this soup, it’ll quickly become one of your go-to recipes for both busy weeknights and relaxed weekends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of straightforward ingredients is all it takes to create this soul-satisfying dish. Each component plays a vital role — from the sweet bite of bell pepper to the hearty richness that the beef and tomato soup bring, culminating with pasta that adds the perfect finishing touch of comfort.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: The base for sautéing vegetables and browning beef, adding a subtle richness.
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when softened.
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped: Brings a fresh, slightly crisp contrast to the savory broth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the soup with a fragrant punch that ties all the flavors together.
- 1 pound ground beef: The star protein providing hearty texture and meaty flavor.
- 2 teaspoons chili powder: Adds a warm, smoky kick that’s subtle but impactful.
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano: Offers herbal brightness that complements the tomato base.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing and bringing out all the soup’s flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: For a gentle background heat and complexity.
- 2 (10.75-ounce) cans condensed cream of tomato soup: Gives the broth a creamy texture and concentrated tomato richness.
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds fresh tomato chunks with natural juice for brightness.
- 32 ounces beef broth: Deepens the savory flavor and creates the soup’s comforting base.
- 4 cups water: Helps reach the perfect soup consistency without overpowering flavors.
- 2 cups uncooked pasta: Small macaroni pasta works wonderfully to soak up all the tasty broth.
How to Make Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Your Aromatics
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Toss in your finely chopped onion, green bell pepper, and garlic. Cook these together until the vegetables soften and mingle their sweet and savory aromas, about 5 to 6 minutes. This step builds the flavor foundation for your soup, so don’t rush it—it’s where the magic begins.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, add the ground beef to the pot. Break it apart with your spoon as it cooks, ensuring it browns evenly. Once no longer pink, drain any excess fat to avoid a greasy soup. The browned beef brings that irresistible meaty depth that defines this Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe, so take your time to get a good sear.
Step 3: Season and Sizzle
Now it’s time to sprinkle in the chili powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir these spices into the beef mixture and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes. This step helps bloom the spices, releasing their full fragrant potential and giving your soup that warm, inviting scent.
Step 4: Add Tomato Soups and Broth
Pour in the condensed cream of tomato soup, diced tomatoes with their juice, beef broth, and water. Stir everything together well. The combination of creamy tomato soup with broth forms a rich, luscious base that’s both hearty and comforting—a true star feature of this recipe.
Step 5: Simmer with Macaroni
Bring your pot to a boil, then toss in the uncooked pasta. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer until the pasta is tender but still al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This way, the noodles absorb the savory tomato broth perfectly without getting mushy.
Step 6: Final Taste and Adjust
Before serving, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Maybe a pinch more salt or black pepper? This small tweak ensures your Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe is tailored exactly to your liking, bursting with flavor in every spoonful.
How to Serve Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate your soup from tasty to unforgettable. Try sprinkling some chopped fresh parsley or basil for a burst of color and freshness. A dollop of sour cream or a shaving of sharp cheddar cheese can add creaminess and richness for an extra cozy bite.
Side Dishes
Pair this soup with crusty garlic bread or warm dinner rolls to scoop up every last drop of that delicious broth. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette can balance the meal with a crisp, refreshing bite alongside the hearty soup.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, serve the soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a rustic, edible container. Or arrange individual portions topped with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan and a drizzle of good olive oil for a restaurant-style touch. These ideas show off your Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe with style and charm.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup stores beautifully in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making your next meal even better. Just be sure to cool it before refrigerating to keep it fresh.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this soup freezes well. Transfer cooled soup to freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve its delicious texture and flavor.
Reheating
Warm your leftover Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if it feels too thick. Reheating slowly helps maintain the soup’s creamy consistency and ensures every bite tastes just like freshly made.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat crumbles work well if you want a lighter or vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
What type of pasta works best in this soup?
Small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni, ditalini, or small shells work best because they cook quickly and fit nicely on a spoon with the broth and beef.
Is it possible to make this soup spicier?
Yes! Simply add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños during the sauté step to ramp up the heat.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
You can, but you will need about 3 cups of diced fresh tomatoes and might want to cook them down a bit longer to achieve the same rich tomato flavor and consistency.
How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?
Keep an eye on the cooking time and test the pasta frequently. Al dente pasta has a firmer bite and holds its shape, keeping the soup texture balanced and enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
This Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe is truly a bowl of comfort that hits home with every spoonful. It’s easy to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and delivers amazing flavor that your family and friends will adore. I encourage you to try making it soon—you might just find your new favorite soup to enjoy all year round!
Print
Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup is a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender ground beef, savory vegetables, and pasta simmered in a rich tomato-based broth. Perfect for a satisfying family meal, this soup comes together easily on the stovetop in just 40 minutes, delivering warm flavors and a deliciously balanced texture.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 (10.75-ounce) cans condensed cream of tomato soup
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 32 ounces beef broth
- 4 cups water
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (macaroni preferred)
Instructions
- Heat and Sauté Vegetables: Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic, sautéing for 5 to 6 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook it until well browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. After browning, drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in chili powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Continue cooking for 1 to 2 minutes to allow the spices to release their aroma and deepen the flavor of the beef.
- Add Tomato and Broth Ingredients: Pour in the condensed cream of tomato soup, undrained diced tomatoes, beef broth, and water. Stir the mixture well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer with Pasta: Bring the soup mixture to a boil, then add the uncooked pasta. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the soup warm for a hearty and delicious meal.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
- Use macaroni or any small pasta shape that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well.
- To make the soup creamier, stir in a splash of milk or cream before serving.
- Leftover soup can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
- Drain excess fat thoroughly after browning the beef to keep the soup light.
