There’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup. This hearty one-pot meal is packed with savory ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato broth infused with aromatic herbs. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal for a cold evening, this soup delivers flavor and warmth in every bite.

A favorite in family kitchens, this dish is not just delicious but also nutritious, offering a good balance of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Similar to American goulash and minestrone, this soup blends pasta and vegetables in a way that’s both satisfying and budget-friendly.

One of the best things about Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup is its versatility. You can easily tweak it to suit your dietary needs—whether you prefer a gluten-free option, a spicier version, or a healthier twist with leaner meat and extra veggies. This recipe can also be prepped in one pot, making cleanup a breeze!

If you’re looking for more comforting soup recipes, check out healthy soup ideas that are both wholesome and satisfying. Now, let’s dive into the origins of this beloved dish!

History & Origin of Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup

The origins of Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup can be traced back to a blend of Italian, American, and Midwestern influences. This dish shares similarities with minestrone, a traditional Italian vegetable soup that often contains pasta and beans. However, the addition of ground beef and a thicker tomato broth gives it a heartier, more Americanized twist.

An Evolution from Goulash and Pasta Soups

In many ways, this soup is a close cousin to American goulash, a dish known for its ground beef, tomatoes, and elbow macaroni. Over time, home cooks adapted the recipe by increasing the broth-to-pasta ratio, transforming it into a comforting soup rather than a thick pasta dish.

The popularity of tomato-based soups in North America, such as classic tomato soup, also played a role in shaping this dish. The combination of savory beef, tangy tomatoes, and soft macaroni became a staple in family-friendly recipes, especially in the Midwest and Canada.

Why It Became a Household Favorite

This soup gained traction for several reasons:

Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable pantry staples like canned tomatoes, pasta, and ground beef.
One-Pot Simplicity: Like many one-pot meals, it’s easy to prepare and requires minimal cleanup.
Comforting & Nourishing: Packed with protein, fiber, and warmth, making it a go-to dish for cold weather and busy weeknights.

Its versatility means that each family has its own unique take on the recipe, adding different vegetables, seasonings, or even cheese for an extra twist. Now, let’s explore why this soup is a must-try for every kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal, Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup is the perfect choice. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a dish that’s great for meal prep, this soup checks all the boxes.

1. Quick & Easy

This soup comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Since it’s a one-pot meal, you won’t have to worry about extra cleanup. Plus, it uses simple ingredients that are easy to find and budget-friendly.

2. Nutritious & Filling

Packed with lean ground beef, tomatoes, and vegetables, this soup provides:

Protein: Helps keep you full and satisfied.
Fiber & Vitamins: Thanks to the tomatoes, onions, and mixed vegetables.
Complex Carbohydrates: The elbow macaroni gives a boost of energy-sustaining carbs.

If you’re looking for more wholesome options, check out these healthy soup recipes for inspiration.

3. Family-Friendly & Customizable

This soup is a hit with kids and adults alike. You can easily customize it by:

Swapping ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
Adding more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition.
Adjusting the seasoning to make it spicier or milder based on preference.

4. Perfect for Leftovers & Meal Prep

This soup tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prepping. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze it for later. Just be sure to separate the pasta if you’re planning to store it for longer periods to prevent it from becoming mushy.

With all these benefits, it’s easy to see why this Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup has remained a classic comfort food for generations! Now, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients and how you can modify them to suit your taste.

Ingredients & Substitutions

The beauty of Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. This recipe uses staples you likely already have in your kitchen, and it’s highly adaptable to different dietary preferences.

Main Ingredients & Their Roles

Ground Beef – The foundation of the soup’s savory and rich flavor. For a leaner option, consider using ground turkey or chicken.
Olive Oil – Used to sauté the beef and aromatics, adding depth to the dish.
Onion & Garlic – Essential for enhancing the flavor profile of the soup.
Beef Broth – Creates a rich, umami-packed base. You can substitute it with vegetable broth for a lighter, plant-based version.
Canned Diced Tomatoes & Tomato Sauce – These provide the soup’s signature tangy, slightly sweet taste. Using fresh tomatoes is also an option for a brighter, fresher flavor.
Elbow Macaroni – The classic pasta choice, but you can swap it for whole wheat, gluten-free, or even chickpea pasta for a healthier spin.
Mixed Vegetables – A blend of peas, corn, and carrots adds color, texture, and nutrition. Feel free to experiment with zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach.

Flavor Enhancers

Dried Basil & Oregano – These bring an Italian-inspired flavor to the soup.
Paprika – Adds a mild smokiness and warmth.
Worcestershire Sauce – A small amount adds an umami depth, similar to classic Worcestershire sauce used in many soups and stews.
Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for balancing and enhancing the overall taste.
Sugar (Optional) – Helps cut the acidity of the tomatoes for a more balanced flavor.

Optional Additions & Variations

Cheese Topping: Sprinkle Parmesan or shredded Cheddar on top for extra richness.
Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for some heat.
Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly version.
Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a creamier broth.

This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your dietary needs and taste preferences. Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step cooking instructions!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s go through the step-by-step process to make the perfect Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup. This one-pot wonder is simple to prepare and delivers bold, comforting flavors in every bite.

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
Add 1 pound of ground beef and cook until it’s fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
If needed, drain excess fat to prevent the soup from becoming too greasy.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add 1 small diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves to the pot.
Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

Pour in 4 cups of beef broth, 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained), and 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce.
Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Add Seasonings & Simmer

Mix in:
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon sugar (optional)
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes to enhance the flavors.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta & Vegetables

Stir in 1 cup of elbow macaroni and 1 cup of mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, and corn).
Cook for another 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but not mushy.

Step 6: Adjust & Serve

Taste the soup and adjust seasonings if needed.
Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

This deliciously rich soup is now ready to be enjoyed! For an extra touch, serve it with crusty garlic bread or a fresh salad.

Tips for the Best Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup

To make sure your soup turns out perfect every time, follow these expert tips:

Use Lean Ground Beef: This helps prevent excess grease in the soup. If using fattier beef, make sure to drain the fat.
Cook Pasta Separately for Meal Prep: If you plan on storing leftovers, cook the pasta separately and add it when reheating to prevent it from becoming too soft.
Let the Soup Rest Before Serving: Allowing it to sit for a few minutes helps the flavors meld together.
Add a Splash of Cream for a Creamier Version: Stirring in heavy cream or coconut milk can create a richer, creamier broth.
Enhance the Umami Flavor: Adding a dash of soy sauce or Parmesan cheese can deepen the flavor.

If you love one-pot meals, explore more comforting soup recipes for inspiration.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Proper storage ensures that your Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup stays fresh and flavorful. Here’s how to store and reheat it for the best results:

Refrigeration:

Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
Transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

To freeze, leave out the pasta (as it can become mushy when thawed).
Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
When ready to eat, cook fresh pasta separately and add it to the reheated soup.

Reheating:

Stovetop: Heat on medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.
Microwave: Warm in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until heated through.

For more meal-prep-friendly dishes, check out these meal prep soups.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this soup with the right side dishes for a complete and satisfying meal.

Best Served With:

Crusty Bread: A warm baguette or garlic toast complements the rich broth.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The perfect cheesy, crispy companion to this tangy tomato-based soup.
Side Salad: A light Caesar salad or garden salad balances the dish.

Pairing Ideas:

Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms adds more texture and nutrition.
Coleslaw: A fresh coleslaw provides a crisp contrast to the warm soup.

For more pairing ideas, explore one-pot dinner recipes.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your soup turns out perfect every time:

Overcooking the Pasta: Add it toward the end to keep it from becoming too soft.
Not Adjusting Seasoning: Taste and tweak the flavors before serving.
Skipping the Draining Step: If using fatty ground beef, drain excess grease to prevent a greasy soup.
Using Too Much Pasta: The pasta absorbs liquid, so use the recommended amount or cook it separately.

By following these tips, you’ll always have a deliciously balanced and hearty soup.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients except the pasta and vegetables. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, adding the pasta and veggies in the last 30 minutes.

2. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Absolutely! Use about 4-5 fresh tomatoes, diced, or 1 ½ cups of tomato purée for a fresher taste.

3. How can I make this soup spicier?

For a kick, add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños.

4. Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes! Just avoid topping it with cheese and use a dairy-free Worcestershire sauce if needed.

5. What’s the best way to thicken the soup?

Let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid, or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch + 2 tbsp water).

Ultimate Guide to Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup

Author: Christopher

Print Recipe

Description

Warm up with this hearty Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup! 🍲✨ A comforting mix of savory ground beef, tender pasta, and rich tomato broth, this one-pot meal is perfect for chilly nights or quick weeknight dinners. Ready in under 30 minutes, this family-friendly recipe is a must-try!

Save this recipe and make it tonight! ❤️

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup elbow macaroni
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1 lb ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup elbow macaroni
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Notes

To prevent mushy pasta, cook it separately if storing leftovers.
Want extra protein? Stir in cooked beans or shredded chicken.
Freeze without pasta for best texture when reheating.

This completes the ultimate guide to making the perfect Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup! 🍲 Let me know if you’d like any final refinements. 😊