A bowl of Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup feels like a warm hug. It takes me back to my childhood. My mom’s kitchen was filled with the smell of this soup, making everyone excited.
On cold nights, we’d gather around the table. We couldn’t wait to try the homemade macaroni soup. The smell of beef and tomatoes was amazing, promising a tasty meal.
This soup recipe is now a favorite in my kitchen. It brings back those cozy family dinners. Making it is easy, and it’s full of flavor, perfect for cold days. Let’s make this delicious Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup together!
What Makes Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup a Comfort Food?
Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup is a classic comfort food. It has tender beef, sweet tomatoes, and hearty macaroni. This mix of flavors warms the soul.
When I make this dish, I think of family gatherings. Everyone looks forward to this soup. It’s a favorite among many.
The smell of this soup brings back happy memories. It reminds me of cozy nights with loved ones. This soup is more than just food; it brings families together.
This soup is perfect for cold months. It offers a warm comfort that everyone loves. The flavors blend well, making it a favorite in many homes.
Ingredients for Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup
When making a tasty beef and tomato macaroni soup, the right ingredients are key. They make the soup taste great and feel good in your mouth. Here’s what you need to make it special.
Essential Aromatics
The soup starts with aromatics. I use 1 cup of diced yellow onion and 3 cloves of minced garlic. They make the soup smell amazing as they cook. Adding finely chopped green bell peppers can also add flavor.
This mix reminds me of a classic homemade beef stew with macaroni.
Choosing the Right Beef
Ground beef is the main protein in this soup. I choose 1 pound of 80/20 ground chuck. It has the right amount of fat for a thick, tasty soup.
This choice makes the soup rich and goes well with the tomatoes.
Tomato Variations for Rich Flavor
Tomatoes are important, and I mix them for flavor. I use diced tomatoes, cream of tomato soup, and crushed tomatoes. This mix balances the taste.
Adding 1/2 cup of ketchup makes it even richer. It’s a delicious tomato soup with ground beef.
| Ingredient | Amount | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 1 lb | Primary protein source |
| Diced Onion | 1 cup | Aromatic base |
| Minced Garlic | 3 cloves | Adds depth of flavor |
| Beef Broth | 6 cups | Liquid base |
| Canned Tomatoes | 2 cans (28 oz each) | Provides rich tomato flavor |
| Ketchup | 1/2 cup | Enhances sweetness |
| Worcestershire Sauce | 1 1/2 tbsp | Flavor booster |
| Brown Sugar | 1-2 tbsp (to taste) | Balances acidity |
| Italian Seasoning | 1 tsp | Herbal notes |
| Elbow Macaroni | 3 cups (cooked) or 2 cups (dry) | Carbohydrate component |
How to Prepare Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup
Preparing this easy beef and tomato soup recipe is simple. I start by gathering my ingredients. I need ground beef, chopped onions, minced garlic, canned San Marzano style tomatoes, tomato paste, and low sodium beef broth. With everything ready, it’s time to start.
In a large pot, I sauté the diced onions and minced garlic until they are softened and fragrant. This makes a great base for my hearty macaroni soup. When the onions are translucent, I add one pound of 90/10 ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. I keep cooking until the beef is no longer pink.
Next, I add two cans of chopped tomatoes, four ounces of tomato paste, and six cups of beef broth to the pot. I also stir in a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, two teaspoons of onion powder, one teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and a bay leaf. Letting the soup simmer for 8 to 10 minutes makes the flavors blend well.
Then, I add two cups of uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot. I let it heat through for about 10 to 15 minutes, until the pasta is just right. This hearty macaroni soup is now ready to be served, bringing warmth and comfort to any occasion.
Cooking Methods: Stovetop, Crockpot, and Instant Pot
Each cooking method for Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup has its own benefits. I can pick based on my schedule and what I like. This way, I can enjoy the soup without spending too much time cooking.
Stovetop Instructions for Quick Preparation
I start by browning 1 1/2 lbs of lean ground beef. I add onions and garlic to the pot. Then, I add canned diced tomatoes, tomato soup, beef broth, and frozen veggies.
Letting it simmer for about 10 minutes blends the flavors well. This method is great for a quick weeknight dinner.
Crockpot Directions for Slow Cooking
For a hands-off option, I use my crockpot. After browning the beef, I put it in the slow cooker. Then, I add all the other ingredients.
Cooking on low for 8-10 hours makes the soup rich and flavorful. The slow cooking fills my kitchen with a warm aroma.
Instant Pot Method for Fast Results
The Instant Pot is the fastest way to make this soup. After browning the beef, I add all ingredients except the macaroni. I use the soup setting for 4 minutes.
After the pressure releases, I add the macaroni for a minute or two. This method is perfect for busy days when I want a quick, filling meal.
Serving Suggestions for Your Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup
Enjoying a warm bowl of classic tomato beef macaroni soup is special. I like to serve it with warm, crusty bread or homemade biscuits. It’s great for dipping.
A fresh green salad with balsamic vinaigrette is a nice touch. It adds a fresh taste to the meal.
For extra flavor, I sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Or, I add a dollop of sour cream. These make the soup richer and thicker.
Serving it with cornbread or coleslaw makes it even better. It’s a cozy dinner choice for friends or family.
Classic tomato beef macaroni soup serves four. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner. With a cooking time of about 40 minutes, it’s a fulfilling meal choice.
Storing and Freezing Your Soup
Storing your homemade macaroni soup right can make it last longer. This way, you can enjoy the yummy tomato beef pasta soup whenever you want. Knowing how long it lasts and how to freeze it well will help you enjoy it more.
How Long Can You Keep It?
Your soup can stay good in the fridge for up to five days. It’s best to eat it within this time for the best taste. If you need to keep it longer, freezing is a good choice. Frozen soup stays good for about three months at 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
Best Practices for Freezing Soup
Freezing your tomato beef pasta soup is great for busy days. Freeze it without the pasta to keep the texture right. Let it cool down first, then put it in freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to leave some space for the liquid to expand.
When frozen right, the soup stays tasty. So, write the recipe name, date, and how to reheat it on each container. To enjoy, thaw and reheat the soup. Add fresh pasta just before serving to keep it just right.
To keep other soups the same, don’t freeze those with dairy or starchy ingredients mixed with liquids. Freezing your homemade macaroni soup is easy with these tips. This way, you can enjoy every spoonful whenever you like.
Variations and Customizations to Try
Getting creative in the kitchen makes my chili mac exciting. I add veggies like peas, corn, or green beans. These add nutrition and a new flavor.
For a spicy kick, try cumin or hot sauce. It makes the soup more exciting. Changing the soup base, like using tomato sauce instead of ketchup, adds depth.
I also play with spices like chili powder and oregano. This helps find the perfect flavor. Topping it with cheese or herbs makes each bowl special.
Here’s a quick reference table summarizing some delightful variations and their suggested ingredients:
| Variation | Suggested Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Spicy Kick | 1 teaspoon cumin, Hot sauce to taste |
| Vegetable Boost | 1 cup peas, 1 cup corn, 1 cup green beans |
| Flavor Swap | 1/2 cup tomato sauce instead of ketchup, 2 teaspoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon oregano |
| Toppings | Shredded cheese, Fresh herbs (basil, parsley, chives) |
Nutritional Information for Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup
Knowing the nutritional values of Beef & Tomato Macaroni Soup is key. It’s perfect for those who love a hearty soup. A serving has about 537 calories.
This mix of carbs, fat, and protein is satisfying. It’s also packed with energy.
This soup is full of good stuff like iron and potassium. It’s also a great source of fiber. You can make it even healthier by using lean ground turkey.
It’s also rich in vitamins A and B12. This makes it a great choice for a healthy diet. Enjoy it on a cold night or prep it for later. It’s both tasty and nutritious.