If you’re searching for a comforting, hearty, and utterly delicious soup to warm you up on any day, this Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe is just the ticket. Packed with tender ground beef, vibrant tomatoes, and perfectly cooked pasta, each spoonful bursts with rich flavor and satisfying textures. This recipe is a wonderful way to bring family and friends together around the table, combining pantry staples into a dish that feels both familiar and special. From the easy prep to the inviting aroma while it simmers, this Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe quickly becomes a favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this soup is simple, and each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of textures, flavors, and colors that make this soup so crave-worthy.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Used to sauté vegetables and brown the beef, adding a subtle richness.
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped: Provides sweetness and depth to the soup base.
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped: Adds a refreshing crunch and a touch of bright flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses aromatic warmth into every bite.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein that makes this soup satisfying and filling.
- 2 teaspoons chili powder: Brings a gentle smoky heat that enhances the tomato notes.
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano: Offers an herbaceous hint that rounds out the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for intensifying all the vibrant flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds mild spiciness and complexity.
- 2 (10.75-ounce) cans condensed cream of tomato soup: Provides creamy tomato richness that thickens the broth.
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Contributes bursts of fresh tomato flavor and vibrant color.
- 32 ounces beef broth: Forms the savory base that ties all ingredients together beautifully.
- 4 cups water: Balances the liquid content and ensures the soup isn’t too thick.
- 2 cups uncooked pasta: Macaroni or small pasta shapes make this soup wonderfully filling with a tender bite.
How to Make Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté these together for about 5 to 6 minutes, until they’ve softened and their aromas fill your kitchen. This step unlocks the sweetness of the onion and the freshness of the pepper, creating a flavorful foundation for the soup.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, toss in the ground beef. Cook it thoroughly, breaking it apart with a spoon as it browns evenly. This step is all about developing a rich meaty flavor while ensuring the beef is cooked perfectly. Once browned, drain off any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy without losing that savory taste.
Step 3: Add Spices
Sprinkle in the chili powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir these spices into the beef and vegetable mixture, letting them cook for 1 to 2 minutes. This allows the spices to toast lightly, releasing their full aroma and transforming the soup into a comforting, savory delight.
Step 4: Combine Tomato and Broth Ingredients
Pour in the condensed cream of tomato soup, the can of diced tomatoes with their juice, beef broth, and water. Stir everything together thoroughly, making sure the tomato soup blends evenly with the broth. You’ll notice how these ingredients come together to create a creamy yet vibrant base that is both hearty and rich in tomato flavor.
Step 5: Add Pasta and Simmer
Bring the soup mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the uncooked pasta, stirring to prevent sticking. Lower the heat, cover your pot, and let it simmer gently. Stir occasionally as the pasta cooks until it is al dente—tender but with a slight bite—usually about 10 minutes. This simmering allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a warm and satisfying bowl.
Step 6: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
Before you ladle out this comforting soup, taste it once more and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Serving it warm is best, ensuring every bowl delivers the rich, balanced flavor all the way through.
How to Serve Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a handful of shredded cheddar cheese can elevate your Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe instantly. These simple garnishes add color, freshness, and a hint of creaminess that pairs wonderfully with the robust flavors of the soup.
Side Dishes
This soup is a meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, try serving it alongside a crisp green salad or crusty garlic bread. These sides complement the soup’s richness and add a welcome crunch and variety to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, ladle your Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe into individual bread bowls. This not only looks inviting but offers an extra tasty way to enjoy every bit of the soup. Alternatively, top each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce to suit different taste preferences.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, giving you a quick, comforting meal ready to reheat any time.
Freezing
While the pasta may soften when frozen and thawed, you can freeze the soup before adding the pasta for best results. Store the soup base in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and add freshly cooked pasta before serving.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup has thickened, add a splash of water or broth to reach your preferred consistency. If you froze the base without pasta, add cooked pasta now to restore the texture and enjoy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! While macaroni works beautifully, small pasta shapes like elbow, shells, or ditalini also work well and soak up the flavors nicely. Just adjust the cooking time if needed based on the pasta you choose.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or extra vegetables like mushrooms and add vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The cream of tomato soup and spices will keep it rich and flavorful.
Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?
Definitely. Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then add all ingredients except pasta to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add pasta during the last 20-30 minutes so it doesn’t overcook.
What is the best way to reheat the soup without it becoming too thick?
Warm it gently on the stove and add a little water or broth if it has thickened too much. Stir well to restore the right consistency and flavor balance before serving.
Can I make this soup spicier?
For sure! Increase the chili powder slightly, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, or serve with hot sauce on the side for those who like an extra kick. The soup handles spices well without overpowering the tomato and beef flavors.
Final Thoughts
This Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe is one of those true comfort foods that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. Its balance of hearty beef, tangy tomato, and tender pasta makes every spoonful a delight. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how quickly it becomes a go-to recipe in your kitchen. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
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
Hearty and flavorful Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup combines ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato base with aromatic spices. This satisfying soup is perfect for a comforting family meal, cooked on the stovetop in just 40 minutes.
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 (such as elbow macaroni)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: 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 until browned, using a spoon to break up the meat as it cooks. Once the beef is fully browned, drain any excess fat from the pot.
- Add Spices: Stir in chili powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to help release the aroma and flavor of the spices.
- Add Tomato and Broth Mixture: Pour in the condensed cream of tomato soup, the can of diced tomatoes including the juice, the beef broth, and water. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Simmer with Pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil. Then add the uncooked pasta to the pot. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer until the pasta is cooked al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes.
- Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed with additional salt or pepper. Serve the soup warm and enjoy your hearty meal!
Notes
- Use elbow macaroni or similar small pasta that cooks evenly in soup.
- Drain excess fat from the beef to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
- Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce during the spice step.
