This hearty beef and macaroni soup is a warm, filling, and comforting meal made with tender elbow macaroni, ground beef, tomatoes, peppers, and a rich savory broth. It is the kind of simple family recipe that tastes homemade, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights.
With its thick tomato-based sauce and classic pasta shape, this dish is similar to old-fashioned goulash soup. It is easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and made with everyday ingredients you may already have in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, if needed
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes, 14.5 oz
- 1 can tomato sauce, 15 oz
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar, optional, to balance the tomatoes
- 1 cup water, if needed
- Fresh parsley for garnish, optional
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess grease if needed.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and green bell pepper to the pot. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often, until the vegetables begin to soften.
Step 3: Build the Tomato Base
Stir in the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, black pepper, and sugar if using. Mix well until everything is combined.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes so the flavors can blend together.
Step 5: Add the Macaroni
Stir in the elbow macaroni. Cook uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally so the macaroni does not stick to the bottom of the pot.
Step 6: Adjust the Texture
If the soup becomes too thick, add a little water or extra beef broth until it reaches your preferred consistency.
Step 7: Serve
Ladle the beef and macaroni soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
This comforting soup pairs perfectly with:
- Garlic bread
- Dinner rolls
- Green salad
- Cornbread
- Grated Parmesan cheese on top
- A sprinkle of shredded cheddar for extra richness
Tips for the Best Beef and Macaroni Soup
For the best texture, add the macaroni near the end of cooking so it does not become too soft. If you plan to store leftovers, you can cook the pasta separately and add it to each bowl before serving.
For extra flavor, use beef broth instead of water and let the tomato base simmer before adding the pasta. A small amount of sugar can help balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta will absorb some of the broth as it sits, so add a splash of broth or water when reheating.
Final Thoughts
This beef and macaroni soup is a cozy, simple, and delicious recipe that brings together tender pasta, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato broth. It is perfect for family dinners, cold days, or anytime you want a hearty homemade meal in one bowl.
