When you crave comfort food, Classic Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup hits the spot! It’s warm, hearty, and full of flavor. This recipe combines ground beef, veggies, and pasta in a rich tomato base. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this soup is sure to please. Let’s dive into the ingredients and make this cozy dish together!
Ingredients
To make Classic Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup, you’ll need some simple ingredients. Each one plays a part to make this meal tasty and filling. Here’s what you’ll need:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, diced
– 1 celery stalk, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup elbow macaroni
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)
Each of these items brings flavor and warmth. The ground beef adds protein, while the veggies give it a nice crunch. The diced tomatoes and broth create a rich base. Don’t forget the elbow macaroni! It makes the soup hearty and fun to eat. Using fresh herbs like parsley or basil can brighten up the dish. Check out the Full Recipe for more details on how to put this all together!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Overview
Start by gathering all your ingredients. This makes cooking easier. Chop the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Set them aside. Measure out the beef broth and diced tomatoes. It helps to have everything ready before you cook.
Cooking Process
– Heat oil and sauté vegetables
In a large pot or Dutch oven, add a tablespoon of oil. Heat it over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté these for about 5 minutes. You want them to soften and smell good.
– Brown the ground beef
Now, turn up the heat to medium-high. Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook it for about 6-7 minutes. Break it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until it’s brown and no longer pink. If there’s extra fat, drain it out.
Combining Ingredients and Simmering
Next, stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and tomato paste. Add the dried oregano and Worcestershire sauce. Bring this mixture to a boil. Then, reduce the heat. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes.
After simmering, add the elbow macaroni to the soup. Cook this for another 10 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender. Stir it often to keep it from sticking. Season the soup with salt and pepper to your taste. If you like, garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Soup Texture
To get the best texture, focus on the pasta. Cook the elbow macaroni just right. If you overcook it, the pasta will turn mushy. I usually add it to the soup near the end of cooking. This way, it stays firm and gives a nice bite. Stir the soup often to prevent sticking, too.
Enhancing the Flavor
For richer flavor, use high-quality beef broth. You can even make your own broth if you have time. Adding fresh herbs like parsley or basil at the end brightens the taste. Don’t forget to adjust the salt and pepper. A splash of Worcestershire sauce adds depth, so use it generously.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this soup with crusty bread or a fresh salad. It makes a complete meal. You can also top it with shredded cheese for extra flavor. If you want something crunchy, add croutons. This adds a nice texture contrast to the warm soup. For the full recipe, check above.
Variations
Vegetarian Version
You can easily make a vegetarian version of this soup. Simply replace the ground beef with a mix of beans or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. This keeps the soup hearty and filling. Add extra spices to boost the flavor.
Adding Extra Vegetables
Feel free to add more veggies to your soup. Chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach work great. You can toss them in while sautéing the onions and garlic. This adds color and nutrition. It also makes the soup more exciting and fun to eat.
Spicy Twist
For a spicy twist, add some chili flakes or diced jalapeños. You can mix these in with the onions and garlic. This small change can turn your soup into a warm, cozy dish. Adjust the spice level to match your taste. A little heat can make this meal even more comforting.
Explore the full recipe for more ideas and tips to enjoy your Classic Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
Store leftover Classic Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup in an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing it. This helps keep the soup fresh and tasty.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze the soup, use a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top, as the soup will expand when frozen. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating Guidelines
To reheat the soup, pour it into a pot over medium heat. Stir it occasionally to ensure it heats evenly. You can also use a microwave. Heat it in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until hot. Add a little water or broth if it seems too thick. Enjoy a warm bowl anytime!
FAQs
How long does Classic Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup last in the fridge?
Classic Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup can last for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Be sure to store it in an airtight container. The soup tastes best when fresh, but it still holds flavor for a few days. If you want to enjoy it later, check it for any signs of spoilage before you eat.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, you can make this soup in advance. It actually tastes even better the next day. The flavors blend nicely overnight. Just cool it down before putting it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, reheat it on the stove until it’s hot. If you find the soup thickened, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up.
What can I serve with Classic Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup?
You can serve many things with this soup. A slice of crusty bread is a great choice. It helps soak up the soup. A fresh salad adds a nice crunch and brightness. If you want something heartier, grilled cheese sandwiches pair wonderfully. For a fun twist, try cheese-stuffed breadsticks for dipping. Each option complements the flavors of the soup nicely. For the full recipe, check out the Comprehensive section above.
In this post, we explored the ingredients and steps to make Classic Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup. I shared tips to boost flavor and achieve the perfect texture. We also looked at variations, storage options, and answered common questions.
This soup is easy and tasty, making it perfect for any meal. You can enjoy its warmth and comfort while customizing it to your taste. Remember, cooking is fun, so feel free to experiment and make it your own!
