Description
A hearty, comforting soup made with ground beef, macaroni, and a rich tomato broth, packed with vegetables and seasonings. This easy-to-make one-pot meal is perfect for busy nights and is loved by all ages.
Ingredients
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Ground beef (lean)
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Elbow macaroni (or other small pasta)
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Diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
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Beef broth (low-sodium)
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Onion (chopped)
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Garlic (minced)
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Carrots (chopped)
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Celery (chopped)
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Optional: peas, corn, or other veggies
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Bay leaves
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Thyme
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Parsley
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Oregano
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Salt and pepper
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Tomato paste (optional, for thicker broth)
Instructions
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Prepare the ingredients: Chop the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Rinse the macaroni and open your cans.
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Brown the beef: In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it into small pieces until browned. Drain any excess fat.
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Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onions to the pot and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Then add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
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Build the soup: Add beef broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir in the carrots, celery, and any other veggies. Add herbs and seasonings.
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Simmer: Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften.
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Cook the macaroni: Add the macaroni to the pot during the last 10 minutes of simmering. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Final touches: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water. If too thin, let it simmer uncovered to reduce.
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Serve: Remove any bay leaves before serving. Serve hot with optional toppings like shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream.
Notes
For a creamier texture, stir in some cheese at the end or a splash of cream.
If storing leftovers, cook the pasta separately to prevent it from getting too soft.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup / Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American