If you’re craving an ultra-comforting, family-style dinner that comes together quickly and tastes like home, Beef and Macaroni Soup is exactly what you need in your recipe lineup. This soup is everything you dream of on a chilly night: savory beef, tender pasta, bright tomatoes, and a flavorful broth, all simmered together for a bowl that’s as nostalgic as it is satisfying. Whether you’re serving picky kids or hungry adults, this dish always gets rave reviews—plus, it’s flexible enough for weeknights and cozy weekends alike.

Beef and Macaroni Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Beef and Macaroni Soup is how simple but essential the ingredients are—each one is picked for maximum flavor and perfect texture. Don’t be tempted to skip or swap too much; every element plays a delicious role in the final result.

Olive oil: Gives the soup a luscious start, ensuring the ground beef browns up beautifully and the aromatics release their full flavor.
Ground beef: Provides a hearty, rich base with satisfying bite—choose lean or regular, depending on your preference.
Onion: Adds sweetness and depth, supporting all the savory notes in the soup.
Garlic: Offers a delicious aromatic punch that makes the broth irresistible.
Diced tomatoes: Brighten the soup and lend natural sweetness, balancing the richness of the beef.
Tomato sauce: Deepens the tomato flavor and helps create a creamy, cohesive broth.
Beef broth: Acts as the soul of the soup, providing robust depth and that homemade taste.
Italian seasoning: Infuses every spoonful with a subtle herbal warmth.
Paprika: Lends a gentle smokiness and eye-catching color.
Salt: Essential for amplifying and marrying all the flavors together.
Black pepper: Gives a gentle heat and earthiness without overpowering the dish.
Elbow macaroni: The classic pasta shape is perfect for capturing every bit of the soup’s goodness in each bite.
Frozen mixed vegetables (optional): Adds pops of color and sweetness, bumping up the nutrition and texture—kids actually love them in this recipe.
Chopped fresh parsley (optional): A simple garnish for bright color and fresh flavor.

How to Make Beef and Macaroni Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Let it sizzle and brown—this step unlocks tons of flavor and gives the soup its signature heartiness. Once browned, drain off any excess grease to keep things light.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Next, sprinkle the diced onion and garlic into the pot. Sauté everything together for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring often. This quick step softens the onions and garlic, coaxing out their sweetness and setting the stage for your savory broth.

Step 3: Build the Broth

Now, pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir, then increase the heat and bring it all to a gentle boil. This is where the Beef and Macaroni Soup starts to come alive! Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together into pure comfort.

Step 4: Add Pasta and Veggies

Stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni and your frozen mixed vegetables (if using). These ingredients need about 10 to 12 minutes to simmer gently—just enough for the macaroni to turn tender and the veggies to heat through. Keep an eye on things and stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom.

Step 5: Taste and Finish

Once your macaroni is the perfect level of doneness, taste the broth and adjust seasoning if needed. A pinch more salt or pepper can sometimes work wonders. Ladle the Beef and Macaroni Soup into bowls and top with fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy. Serve piping hot and watch it disappear!

How to Serve Beef and Macaroni Soup

Garnishes

Sometimes, it’s the little touches that make a bowl of Beef and Macaroni Soup extra special. A generous sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a little zip of freshness. For a bolder twist, try a swirl of sour cream or a handful of shredded cheddar right on top—both melt into the hot soup and turn an already cozy meal into pure magic.

Side Dishes

While this soup can truly stand alone, it loves good company. Warm, crusty bread is a no-brainer for soaking up every last drop of the savory broth. Add a simple green salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette for some crunch and contrast. And if you want to keep it super kid-friendly, a grilled cheese sandwich on the side is always met with big smiles.

Creative Ways to Present

Have a little fun with your presentation! Try serving Beef and Macaroni Soup in big mugs for a casual game night, or ladle it into mini bread bowls for a party wow-factor. For lunchboxes or meal prep, fill thermos containers so everyone can enjoy a warm, hearty meal on the go. A sprinkle of parmesan or red pepper flakes on top lets everyone customize their own perfect bowl.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Beef and Macaroni Soup is one of those recipes that holds up beautifully in the fridge. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it refrigerated for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, though the pasta will soak up more broth over time. If you like your soup a bit thinner, just add a splash of water or extra beef broth when reheating to bring back that perfect consistency.

Freezing

If you want to have a quick meal ready for a rainy day, this soup can be frozen too. The best trick is to undercook the pasta slightly before freezing so it stays tender (not mushy) when thawed. Let the soup cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space for it to expand. Label and date, and freeze for up to three months.

Reheating

When you’re ready for another comforting bowl, just thaw the soup overnight in the fridge if frozen. Warm it on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a bit more broth or water if the soup looks too thick—this brings everything back to life, right down to the last spoonful. You can also microwave individual bowls for a speedy lunch or dinner.

FAQs

Can I make Beef and Macaroni Soup gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just swap the regular elbow macaroni for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Be sure to cook it according to the package directions and check your beef broth for hidden gluten just in case.

What are the best vegetables to use in this soup?

The classic choice is a frozen mixed veggie blend of peas, carrots, and corn, but you can get creative. Chopped zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers make fantastic additions and add fresh color and nutrition to your Beef and Macaroni Soup.

Can I use other shapes of pasta?

Definitely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, small shells, ditalini, or even rotini work beautifully. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time so your pasta is the perfect al dente.

How can I make this soup spicy?

To spice things up, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce along with the seasonings. For extra depth, a splash of Worcestershire sauce is a chef’s secret weapon in Beef and Macaroni Soup.

Is this soup good for meal prep?

It’s a fantastic meal-prep option! Stored in the fridge, it makes convenient lunches or fast weeknight dinners. For the best texture, keep the soup and pasta separate if prepping ahead, then combine just before reheating.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to add a reliable, soul-warming dish to your weekly rotation, Beef and Macaroni Soup won’t disappoint. It’s hearty, adaptable, and brimming with comfort—served straight from your kitchen with love. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a new favorite at your table!