Beef and Macaroni Soup

Instructions: How to Make Beef and Macaroni Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or stew meat) and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked. This should take about 5-7 minutes. If you’re using stew meat, make sure to brown the pieces well for added flavor.

Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat, if necessary, and set the meat aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté them in the remaining fat for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion becomes translucent. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Broth and Seasonings

Return the browned beef to the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, thyme, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then lower the heat to maintain a gentle simmer for 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Add the Pasta

Once the soup has simmered and the vegetables are tender, it’s time to add the elbow macaroni (or your preferred pasta). Stir the pasta into the soup, ensuring it’s fully submerged. Continue to cook for another 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Final Adjustments

Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings with additional salt and pepper if needed. If the soup is too thick, you can add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it hot with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Variations to Try

While the classic Beef and Macaroni Soup is delicious as-is, you can easily tweak the recipe to suit your preferences or to use up ingredients you have on hand. Here are a few ideas for variations:

• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add extra veggies like zucchini, green beans, or peas for more nutrients and color.
• Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of the soup.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for a little heat.
• Tomato Paste or Sauce: For a richer tomato flavor, add a couple of tablespoons of tomato paste or a can of tomato sauce along with the diced tomatoes.
• Cheese: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle grated Parmesan or cheddar on top before serving.

Health Benefits of Beef and Macaroni Soup

Beef and Macaroni Soup isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with nutrients too! Here are some of the health benefits of the main ingredients:

• Protein: The ground beef provides a solid dose of protein, which helps with muscle growth, tissue repair, and keeping you feeling full longer.
• Vitamins and Fiber: Vegetables like carrots, celery, and tomatoes are full of essential vitamins (like vitamin A and C) and fiber, which promote healthy digestion and immune function.
• Complex Carbs: The macaroni pasta adds complex carbohydrates to the dish, giving you long-lasting energy and helping to keep you full for hours.

Final Thoughts

Beef and Macaroni Soup is the perfect recipe for when you want something filling, comforting, and easy to make. It’s a one-pot dish that delivers robust flavors and a satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or making it for a family gathering, this hearty soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Try making this Beef and Macaroni Soup today, and experience the joy of homemade comfort food at its best!