Beef and Macaroni Soup

Looking for a heartwarming and satisfying dish to enjoy on a chilly day? Say hello to the comforting Beef and Macaroni Soup. This classic tomato-based soup has been a favorite across generations, offering a blend of robust flavors and tender pasta that appeals to taste buds of all ages.

Every spoonful of this soup is a reminder of home, love, and care, making it a timeless favorite. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this Beef and Macaroni Soup :

Why You’ll Love This Beef and Macaroni Soup

– Universal Appeal: From kids to grandparents, everyone enjoys this scrumptious delight.
– Leftover Magic: Perfect for utilizing leftover ground beef or taco meat, reducing wastage and enhancing taste.
– Pantry Friendly: Enjoy the simplicity of this recipe with ingredients commonly found in your pantry.
– Quick and Easy: With minimal preparation time, this soup is a convenient choice for busy days.

Ingredients

– 1 pound prime ground beef: Adds richness and depth to the soup.
– ½ cup finely chopped red onion: Provides a subtle yet flavorful base.
– 6 cups rich beef stock: Enhances the soup’s savory essence.
– 14 ounces fresh chopped tomatoes: Adds freshness and acidity to the dish.
– 2 tablespoons sundried tomato puree: Intensifies the tomato flavor.
– 1 teaspoon traditional Worcestershire sauce: Infuses a tangy kick.
– ½ teaspoon crushed oregano and ½ teaspoon dried sweet basil: Elevates the soup’s herbaceous profile.
– 1 ½ cups uncooked elbow pasta: The perfect pasta choice for this soup.
– 1 ½ cups quick-freeze garden vegetables: Adds color and nutrition to the dish.

How to Make Beef and Macaroni Soup

Step 1: Browning the Beef
In a soup cauldron, cook the ground beef and red onions until the beef is browned and onions are translucent. Remove any excess fat for a lean base.

Step 2: Simmering the Soup
Add the beef stock, fresh tomatoes, sundried tomato puree, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, and basil. Let it simmer to meld the flavors.

Step 3: Adding Pasta and Vegetables
Introduce the elbow pasta and garden vegetables into the pot. Cook until the pasta is tender yet holds its shape.

Step 4: Seasoning and Serving
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with a sprinkle of shredded cheese and warm crusty bread.

Storage Options

To store leftovers, refrigerate the soup in airtight containers. Fresh pasta can be added when reheating to maintain its texture.

Variations and Substitutions

– Customize Your Veggies: Experiment with different vegetables like corn, peas, carrots, or potatoes.
– Bean Boost: Add beans such as black beans, northern beans, or kidney beans for extra texture.
– Flavorful Additions: Enhance the taste with olives, jalapenos, or green chiles.
– Top It Off: Garnish your soup with avocados, cheddar cheese, sour cream, or green onions.

What to Serve With Beef and Macaroni Soup

– Warm crusty bread
– Fresh green salad
– Garlic breadsticks
– Fruit compote or a side of fresh fruit

Frequently Asked Questions

– Can I freeze this soup?: Yes, the soup can be frozen. Keep the pasta separate for best results.
– What can I add to make it spicier?: Consider adding additional black pepper, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce to spice it up.
– Can I make this vegetarian?: Substitute the beef stock with vegetable stock and omit the ground beef for a vegetarian version.
– How long does it last in the fridge?: When properly stored, the soup can last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

Experience the comforting nostalgia of a home-cooked meal with each spoonful of this Beef and Macaroni Soup. The rich flavors and tender pasta create a symphony of warmth that will linger long after the last bite. Whether enjoyed alone or with loved ones, this soup is sure to bring a sense of comfort and joy to your dining table.