Beef Macaroni Soup

An Irresistible Comfort: Beef Macaroni Soup

If you’re in search of a soup that combines comfort with nourishment and flavor, look no further than Beef Macaroni Soup. This delightful dish is one that I adored as a child, despite my vehement claim that I disliked all soups. The irresistible combination of tangy tomatoes and tender macaroni makes it a perennial favorite among children—and adults—of all ages, from two to one hundred and two.

What’s more, you don’t need to spend an entire day simmering this soup to achieve its delicious flavor. In just about 30 minutes, you can whip up a pot of this simple yet satisfying meal, using ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Beef Macaroni Soup is a heartwarming dish that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor. It strikes the perfect balance between savory beef and comforting pasta, with the added zest of tomato-based ingredients. It’s ideal for a cozy family dinner on a busy weeknight.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large saucepan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 small white onion, diced
• 3 cloves of garlic, chopped
• 1 pound of ground beef
• 3 cups of beef broth
• 1 can of diced tomatoes
• 1 can of tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 cups of elbow macaroni

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until tender and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the chopped garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Add the ground beef, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is no longer pink. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Stir in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, basil, oregano, thyme, and bay leaves.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Add the macaroni and continue to simmer until the pasta is tender, about 10 minutes longer.
6. Adjust the seasoning to taste and serve hot.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Beef Macaroni Soup turns out perfectly every time, use fresh ingredients and be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. You can also prepare this soup a day in advance, as the flavors deepen overnight.

Additional Tips and Variations

You can easily customize this soup by adding vegetables such as carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition. For a spicy kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of beef broth slightly.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This soup is a hearty meal, rich in protein from the beef and carbohydrates from the pasta, making it a satisfying and balanced option for lunch or dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I use other types of pasta? Yes, any small pasta shape will work well in this soup.
• Can I freeze the leftovers? Absolutely! Store the soup in an airtight container in the freezer for up to three months.
• What can I use instead of ground beef? Ground turkey or chicken can be excellent substitutes.

Conclusion

Beef Macaroni Soup is not just a meal; it’s a warm embrace in a bowl. I invite you to try this recipe and share your experiences. Whether it brings back childhood memories or creates new ones, this soup is sure to become a beloved staple in your home.