Beef and Macaroni Soup: 7 Comforting Secrets Revealed

oktober 15, 2025

By:

Julia marin

There’s something incredibly comforting about a big bowl of beef and macaroni soup, especially when the weather outside is chilly. I don’t know about you, but when I want to warm up after a long day, this hearty dish is my go-to! It’s simple to make and brings a smile to everyone at the table. The combination of tender ground beef, chewy macaroni, and vibrant veggies simmered in savory broth makes my heart sing. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be making it on repeat during the colder months!

Ingredients List

1 pound ground beef: Choose a lean variety to keep it healthier, but don’t skimp on flavor!
1 cup macaroni: I love using elbow macaroni, but feel free to try any pasta shape you like!
1 onion, chopped: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth to the soup.
2 carrots, diced: They add a lovely color and natural sweetness. Just chop them into small pieces!
2 celery stalks, diced: Celery brings that classic soup flavor. Make sure to dice it finely so it cooks quickly.
4 cups beef broth: Homemade is amazing, but store-bought works just fine; just watch the sodium levels!
1 can diced tomatoes: They add a nice acidity and contrast to the richness of the beef.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a must for that aromatic flavor that fills your kitchen.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: This herb gives the soup a warm, earthy flavor. You can also experiment with Italian seasoning!
Salt and pepper to taste: Always season to your preference; a little goes a long way!

How to Prepare Beef and Macaroni Soup

Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the cooking! I promise, this process is as satisfying as the soup itself. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious, warming bowl of beef and macaroni soup in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef: Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks. I like to sauté it until it’s nicely browned and cooked through—this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. The smell will get you excited, I promise!
Add the Vegetables: Next, toss in the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 5-7 minutes. You want the veggies to become tender and your kitchen to smell heavenly!
In with the Garlic: Now, it’s time to stir in the minced garlic. Cook for just 1 minute—don’t walk away here! Garlic can burn quickly and turn bitter, so stay close and keep stirring!
Pour in the Broth and Tomatoes: Carefully add the beef broth and diced tomatoes to the pot. This is where the magic happens! Bring everything to a nice boil, stirring occasionally. It should take about 5 minutes to reach that bubbling point.
Simmer with the Macaroni: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and add the macaroni. Let the soup simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. You’ll want to keep an eye on it, just like a good friend!
Season to Perfection: Finally, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. This is where you can really make it your own! Taste it, adjust the seasoning if needed, and get ready for a cozy serving!
Serve Hot: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve it hot. You can top it with some fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese if you’re feeling fancy! Enjoy the warmth and comfort with every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s a one-pot wonder—easy cleanup means more time to enjoy with family!
This beef and macaroni soup is hearty and filling, perfect for chilly nights.
Quick preparation: you can whip this up in under an hour!
It’s a crowd-pleaser; even the picky eaters in your life will love it!
Nutritious and comforting, combining protein, carbs, and veggies in each bowl.
Customizable: you can easily add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own!
Leftovers taste even better the next day—just heat and enjoy!

Tips for Success

To make sure your beef and macaroni soup turns out absolutely perfect every time, I’ve got a few tried-and-true tips that I swear by! It’s all about those little details that can elevate your soup from good to fantastic.

Don’t Rush the Browning: Take your time when browning the ground beef. This step adds so much flavor to the soup, so let it cook until it’s really nice and brown, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Prep Your Veggies: Chop all your veggies ahead of time. This not only speeds up the cooking process but also keeps you organized in the kitchen. Plus, you’ll avoid any last-minute chopping chaos!
Use Quality Broth: If you can, use homemade beef broth. It makes a world of difference in flavor! But if you’re using store-bought, try to choose a low-sodium option so you can control the saltiness better.
Adjusting the Seasoning: Taste your soup before serving! It’s crucial to adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference. Sometimes a little extra seasoning can really bring all the flavors together!
Don’t Overcook the Macaroni: Keep an eye on the macaroni while it simmers! You want it tender but not mushy, so start checking it a few minutes earlier than the package suggests.
Experiment with Herbs and Spices: Feel free to get creative! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or toss in some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving for an added flavor boost.
Let It Rest: If you can, let your soup sit for about 10 minutes after cooking. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully, making every bite even more delicious!

By following these tips, you’ll have a cozy, flavorful beef and macaroni soup that will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Happy cooking!

Variations of Beef and Macaroni Soup

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many ways to put your own spin on this beef and macaroni soup! Changing up the ingredients or adding different spices can take this comforting classic to the next level. Here are some of my favorite variations that might inspire you:

Veggie Boost: Toss in some chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for an extra dose of nutrition. They’ll add a pop of color and flavor!
Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper while cooking. Just be sure to adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance!
Italian Twist: Incorporate Italian sausage instead of ground beef for a richer flavor. You can also add fresh basil and a splash of balsamic vinegar for a lovely depth.
Cheesy Delight: Stir in some shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella just before serving. It creates a creamy texture that everyone will love!
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary. Add them during the last few minutes of cooking to bring out their aromatic qualities.
Different Pasta Shapes: Switch out the macaroni for other pasta shapes like shells, penne, or even whole wheat pasta. Each shape brings its own fun twist to the soup!
Sweet Potato Addition: For a touch of sweetness and added nutrition, try adding diced sweet potatoes. They’ll soften perfectly and blend well with the other flavors.
Asian Flavor Profile: Go for a different vibe by adding soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil. Throw in some bok choy and mushrooms for a unique, comforting soup.

These variations are just the tip of the iceberg! Don’t hesitate to get creative and make this beef and macaroni soup truly your own. After all, cooking should be fun and personal!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

You’ll probably have some delicious leftovers after making this hearty beef and macaroni soup, and trust me, they’re just as good the next day! Here’s how to store and reheat your soup to keep it tasting fantastic.

Storing Leftovers

To store your leftovers, let the soup cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to save it for longer, it freezes beautifully! Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It should last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it overnight in the fridge.

Reheating the Soup

When it’s time to reheat, you have a couple of options! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend reheating on the stovetop. Just pour the soup into a pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until it’s heated through—about 5-7 minutes should do the trick. If it seems a bit thick, feel free to add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up.

If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave. Transfer your soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely (to avoid splatters!), and heat it in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until it’s hot all the way through. Just be careful, as microwaved soup can get super hot, so use oven mitts when taking it out!

And there you have it! With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your beef and macaroni soup for days to come without losing any of that comforting goodness. Happy eating!

Nutritional Information

When you’re enjoying a warm bowl of beef and macaroni soup, it’s nice to know what you’re putting into your body! Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values based on the ingredients used. Keep in mind that these values can vary depending on the specific brands and types of ingredients you choose, but this should give you a good idea:

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 350
Protein: 20g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 800mg
Cholesterol: 60mg

This hearty soup not only warms you up but also offers a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and veggies in each bowl. So, enjoy your delicious creation without any guilt! Remember, these numbers are estimates, and you can always adjust ingredients to fit your dietary needs or preferences. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! While I love using ground beef, you can easily swap it for ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat substitute if you want a vegetarian version. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.

What if I don’t have macaroni?
No worries at all! You can use any small pasta shape you have on hand, like shells, penne, or even broken spaghetti. Each one will bring a unique twist to your soup!

Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes! This beef and macaroni soup is perfect for meal prep. Just cook it ahead of time, let it cool, and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze it for longer storage. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together!

How can I make this soup spicier?
If you’re looking to kick up the heat, you can add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or even a dash of hot sauce while cooking. Just taste as you go to find your perfect spice level!

Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with your veggies. I love adding bell peppers, zucchini, or even leafy greens like spinach or kale. Just make sure to adjust cooking times if you add heartier veggies like potatoes.

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Over mij

Hoi, mijn naam is Julia. Ik ben het hart van Vihaad Recipes en een gepassioneerde liefhebber van lekker eten. Mijn liefde voor koken begon al in mijn kindertijd, geïnspireerd door de heerlijke maaltijden van mijn grootmoeder. Vandaag de dag deel ik smakelijke recepten die mensen samenbrengen door het gedeelde plezier van eten.