Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup

This beef and tomato macaroni soup is the definition of comfort food on a chilly night That blend of savory beef sweet tomatoes and tender pasta will have everyone at the table asking for seconds It is simple enough for busy weeknights and hearty enough to warm you to the bone

I threw this soup together on a cold Saturday when we were all craving something cozy Now it is my go-to when friends or family drop by unexpectedly Everyone always raves about how it tastes like home

Ingredients

• Vegetable oil: Helps soften veggies and gives the beef a nice sear Choose a fresh oil for the best flavor
• Yellow onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth Go for a firm onion without green shoots
• Green bell pepper: Brightens and gives a subtle sweetness Pick a pepper that feels heavy and looks glossy
• Garlic: Brings bold flavor Use plump cloves and mince them just before cooking
• Ground beef: The main protein makes the soup hearty Look for beef with some fat for flavor but not too greasy
• Chili powder: Gives the soup warm spice Try a fresh batch for a stronger kick
• Dried oregano: Adds herbal, earthy notes Crush it a bit in your hands before adding to release flavor
• Salt: Essential to bring out flavors Use kosher or sea salt for cleaner taste
• Black pepper: Gives just the right bite Freshly ground is ideal
• Condensed cream of tomato soup: Brings richness and creaminess Go for a brand you love
• Diced tomatoes: Delivers texture and bright tomato flavor Choose tomatoes with a deep red color
• Beef broth: Boosts savory depth Use a high quality broth for best taste
• Water: Increases the soup volume Filtered or fresh tap water works
• Uncooked pasta: Macaroni gives the classic texture Try a sturdy brand so it does not get mushy

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté Vegetables:

Begin by heating vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat Add chopped onion green bell pepper and garlic Cook the mixture for five to six minutes until the onion turns translucent and everything softens You will know it is ready when the kitchen smells fragrant

Brown the Beef:

Add the ground beef Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook the meat until no pink remains Stir often to allow it to brown evenly Once done carefully drain off any extra fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy

Bloom the Spices:

Sprinkle in chili powder dried oregano salt and black pepper Stir them into the beef and vegetables Let everything cook together for another one to two minutes This step wakes up the spices so the soup develops much deeper flavor

Combine Broth and Tomatoes:

Add condensed cream of tomato soup the entire can of diced tomatoes with their juices the beef broth and water Stir everything very well making sure nothing is sticking to the bottom of your pot

Add Pasta and Simmer:

Bring the mixture up to a gentle boil Once boiling stir in the uncooked pasta Reduce the heat to low cover the pot and let it simmer until the pasta is just al dente Taste as you go so the noodles do not turn mushy

Finish and Adjust:

Give the soup a final stir Taste and adjust the salt or pepper as needed Serve piping hot straight from the pot

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The diced tomatoes are my favorite magic ingredient They bring the brightest tomato punch My kids love fishing them out of their bowls and it has become a little game for them whenever I make this soup

Storage Tips

This soup tastes even better the next day Store leftovers in tight containers in the fridge for up to three days For longer storage freeze portions in freezer safe bags or containers Leave a little space at the top for expansion The pasta may absorb more liquid as it sits so you may want to add a splash of broth or water when reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken work great if you want a leaner version Do not have condensed tomato soup Use crushed tomatoes and stir in a handful of shredded cheese for extra creaminess Any short pasta shape like shells or rotini stands in well for macaroni

Serving Suggestions

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheese for a comforting finish A little chopped cilantro or a dollop of sour cream adds a fresh note Round out the meal with a simple green salad or crusty bread for dunking

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A Bit of Background

Beef and tomato macaroni soup is a classic in many American kitchens It is rooted in practical family cooking where you stretch a small amount of meat and pantry basics into a big satisfying meal Many cooks remember a version simmering on their grandmother's stove on a snowy day

Recipe FAQs

→ Can other types of pasta be substituted for macaroni?

Yes, you can use other short-cut pasta shapes such as shells, ditalini, or penne. Just adjust cooking time as needed.

→ How can I make this soup less salty?

Opt for low-sodium broth and unsalted canned tomatoes, and season to taste at the end to control salt content.

→ Is it possible to add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely. Chopped carrots, celery, zucchini, or spinach can be added for extra nutrition and flavor.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this dish reheats well. For best texture, cook the pasta separately and add just before serving.

→ What garnishes pair well before serving?

Shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream make excellent toppings.