Beef and Macaroni Soup: 5 Steps to Cozy Comfort

Name: Beef and Macaroni Soup: 5 Steps to Cozy Comfort
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup macaroni; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cups beef broth; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

October 15, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day, right? It’s like a cozy hug from the inside! My absolute favorite is definitely beef and macaroni soup. I can still remember the first time I made it on a rainy afternoon. The aroma of sizzling beef and sautéed veggies filled my kitchen, and I couldn’t help but smile. This soup is hearty, filling, and so incredibly simple to whip up. With its tender macaroni and rich broth, it’s a meal that warms you from head to toe. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or a quick lunch, this dish never disappoints. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to keep it in your rotation for those cold days ahead!

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 cup macaroni
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cups beef broth
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Prepare Beef and Macaroni Soup

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

First things first, let’s get that ground beef nice and brown! Heat a large pot over medium heat, and once it’s warm, add the beef. Make sure not to overcrowd the pot; if you do, it’ll steam instead of brown, and we want that beautiful caramelization. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon until it’s no longer pink. The smell? Oh wow, it’s already amazing!

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Now, it’s time for some color! Toss in the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery into the pot. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 5 minutes, or until the veggies are softened. You’ll know they’re ready when the onions turn translucent and everything starts to smell like a cozy kitchen. Yum!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Now, let’s bring it all together! Pour in the beef broth, add the can of diced tomatoes (juice and all), and sprinkle in the garlic powder along with salt and pepper. Give it a good stir, and here’s a little tip: taste it! Adjust the seasoning as needed—you want it to be just right!

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Bring that glorious mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble away for about 15 minutes. This is where all those flavors meld together beautifully. Just imagine how comforting that broth will be!

Step 5: Cook the Macaroni

Alright, it’s time for the macaroni! Add it to the pot and let it cook according to the package instructions, usually around 10 minutes, until it’s tender. Keep an eye on it—you don’t want mushy macaroni! Give it a stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Once the macaroni is perfectly cooked, it’s time to serve! Ladle the soup into bowls and, if you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top or add a dollop of sour cream. This soup is best enjoyed hot, so gather your loved ones, and dive into this hearty bowl of comfort. Trust me, it’s just what you need!

Tips for Success

To really elevate your beef and macaroni soup, here are some of my favorite tips! First off, don’t be shy with the seasoning—taste as you go and adjust the salt and pepper to suit your palate. If you want to jazz it up even more, consider adding a pinch of dried herbs like thyme or a bay leaf during the simmering stage. They’ll add such depth to the flavor!

Also, if you’re in the mood for a twist, try using ground turkey or even adding some diced potatoes for extra heartiness. And remember, the key to the perfect macaroni is to stir occasionally to avoid sticking, and check it a minute or two before the package directions say it’s done. You want that pasta perfectly tender, but still with a slight bite—al dente, if you will! Enjoy experimenting, and make this soup your own!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to comfort food, it’s nice to know what you’re getting, right? Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values for a serving of my delicious beef and macaroni soup:

Calories: 400
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 800mg
Cholesterol: 60mg

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Enjoy this hearty soup without any guilt—it’s packed with flavor and warmth!

FAQ Section

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! If you’re looking to mix things up, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. They’ll give the soup a lighter flavor while still keeping it hearty. You could even use diced steak if you prefer a chunkier texture. Just remember to adjust the cooking times slightly, especially for chicken, to ensure everything is cooked through!

What can I add for extra flavor?

Oh, there are so many possibilities! I love adding a pinch of dried herbs like thyme or oregano for a lovely depth of flavor. A bay leaf tossed in while it simmers can really elevate the taste as well. If you’re feeling adventurous, a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce can give your soup a nice kick. Experiment and find what flavors you love best!

How do I store leftovers?

Storing leftovers is super easy! Just make sure to let the soup cool down before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup—just be sure to leave some space in the container as it expands when frozen. Thaw it overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty and filling, perfect for chilly days.
Simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.
Quick to prepare, ready in just 35 minutes!
Rich and flavorful broth that warms you from the inside out.
Versatile—customize with your favorite veggies or herbs.
Great for meal prep; leftovers taste even better the next day.
A family-friendly dish that even picky eaters will love.
Budget-friendly, making it easy on your wallet.
Comforting and nostalgic, just like a warm hug in a bowl.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your beef and macaroni soup is a breeze! Just let it cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Just make sure to leave a little space in the container, as the soup will expand when frozen.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge. For reheating, I recommend using a pot on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly and doesn’t stick to the bottom. You can also use the microwave, but stir it halfway through to avoid hot spots. Enjoy your cozy, comforting soup just like it was the first time around!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying my beef and macaroni soup, I love to think about what pairs well with it. A warm, crusty bread is just perfect for dipping into that rich, flavorful broth. Whether it’s a simple baguette or a slice of homemade garlic bread, you can’t go wrong! Another fantastic option is a fresh salad—something light and crisp, like a classic Caesar or a mixed greens salad with a zesty vinaigrette. The crunch of the salad balances beautifully with the hearty soup.

If you want to make it extra cozy, consider serving it with a side of cheesy toast or some buttery cornbread. Honestly, any of these sides can elevate your meal to a whole new level. So, gather your loved ones, serve it up, and enjoy a comforting, satisfying dinner together!