When it comes to cozy, hearty comfort food, few dishes check all the boxes quite like Beef and Macaroni Soup. Packed with ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato-based broth, this one-pot wonder brings back memories of grandma’s kitchen and chilly nights wrapped in blankets. It’s a family-friendly classic that’s affordable, easy to make, and fills the house with mouthwatering aromas.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend meal preps, this soup is nourishing, customizable, and endlessly satisfying. Whether you load it up with vegetables or keep it straightforward and meaty, Beef and Macaroni Soup is always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it freezes beautifully, making it a smart batch-cook option.

What Kind of Macaroni Should I Use?

Elbow macaroni is traditional and perfect for this soup due to its size and quick cooking time. However, feel free to substitute with other small pasta shapes like ditalini, shells, or even rotini. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly so the pasta doesn’t overcook.

Ingredients for the Beef and Macaroni Soup

1 lb ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
4 cups beef broth
1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1 cup frozen corn or peas
Optional: Fresh parsley or grated Parmesan for garnish

How To Make the Beef and Macaroni Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until fully browned, then drain excess fat if necessary. Season with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juice), and beef broth. Stir well to combine and bring to a boil.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Stir in the elbow macaroni. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered for 10-12 minutes, or until pasta is tender.

Step 5: Final Touches

If using, add frozen vegetables in the last 5 minutes of cooking. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan before serving.

How to Serve and Store Beef and Macaroni Soup

Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad. This soup makes a full meal on its own but also pairs beautifully with a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort combo.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The pasta may absorb some of the liquid, so you might need to add a splash of broth when reheating. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup actually tastes even better the next day. Just reheat on the stove or microwave with a bit of added broth.

How can I make this soup gluten-free?

Substitute the macaroni with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Keep an eye on cooking time as GF pasta tends to cook faster.

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken are great leaner options and work well in this recipe.

What vegetables go well in this soup?

Corn, peas, green beans, carrots, or even chopped spinach can be stirred in.

Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Definitely! Cool completely and freeze in airtight containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

Want More Soup Ideas?

If you love this Beef and Macaroni Soup, you might also enjoy:

Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts for a savory, creamy main.
Shipwreck Dinner for another cozy one-pot meal.
Cozy Chicken Vegetable Soup for a lighter but equally comforting option.
Cajun White Chicken Chili for a spicy twist.
Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti for easy hands-off comfort.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it anytime.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra veggies? Maybe a splash of cream? Did you swap the pasta for something heartier?

I love seeing how you bring your own flair to classic dishes. Questions? Suggestions? Drop them below or join the daily food fun over on Pinterest @NinaDishes.

Beef and Macaroni Soup

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Beef and Macaroni Soup is a nostalgic one-pot wonder loaded with ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato broth. Comforting, hearty, and ready in under an hour, it’s a weeknight dinner staple and freezer-friendly favorite.