Beef and Macaroni Soup: A Quick, Hearty Family Favorite

Beef and Macaroni Soup is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day. It’s cozy, hearty, and incredibly satisfying — the kind of recipe that reminds you of home, no matter where you are. Made with tender ground beef, perfectly cooked macaroni, and a rich tomato-beef broth, this comforting soup is a weeknight lifesaver.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd, trying to satisfy picky eaters, or just craving something nostalgic, Beef and Macaroni Soup hits the spot. The best part? It all comes together in one pot in under 40 minutes. Pair it with a side of crusty bread or a crisp green salad, and dinner practically makes itself.

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What is Beef and Macaroni Soup?

Beef and Macaroni Soup is a classic one-pot dish that brings together simple, affordable ingredients for a hearty family meal. Imagine the comforting flavors of a hamburger combined with the heartiness of pasta, all simmered in a rich tomato broth — that’s what makes this soup irresistible. It’s like a cross between chili and pasta but lighter, brothier, and perfect for slurping.

Originating from home cooks who wanted to stretch ingredients without sacrificing flavor, this recipe has stood the test of time. Today, it’s loved by families everywhere for its simplicity and versatility. It’s a go-to option for busy nights, meal prep Sundays, or cozy winter evenings when you want something filling but not fussy.

Reasons to Try Beef and Macaroni Soup

Let’s be honest — some nights, you just need dinner to be easy. Beef and Macaroni Soup checks every box: quick prep, minimal cleanup, and big flavor. First, it’s budget-friendly. Ground beef and pasta are pantry staples, and most of the other ingredients (like ketchup and Worcestershire sauce) are probably already in your fridge. Second, it’s incredibly adaptable.

Add veggies, switch up the pasta shape, or spice it up — it’s hard to mess up. Third, it’s family-approved. Kids love the mild, savory flavors, and adults appreciate how satisfying it is without being heavy. Finally, this soup freezes well, making it a practical option for meal prep. For more cozy, budget-friendly soups, you’ll love my Easy Chicken and Rice Soup or Hearty Beef and Barley Soup.

Ingredients Needed to Make Beef and Macaroni Soup

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 3 teaspoons minced garlic
• 58 oz beef broth
• 56 oz chopped tomatoes (two 28 oz cans)
• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 cups dry macaroni
• Garlic salt and pepper to taste
• Shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions to Make Beef and Macaroni Soup

Let’s walk through this Beef and Macaroni Soup step by step so you can create a rich, flavorful, and cozy bowl of comfort — even on your busiest nights. Each step is easy to follow, and by the end, your kitchen will smell like pure home-cooked goodness.

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Build the Flavor Base

Start your Beef and Macaroni Soup step by step journey by heating a large stockpot over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Sprinkle in the onion powder and minced garlic — this combo creates that classic savory aroma that fills your kitchen and makes everyone think you’ve been cooking all day (even if it’s only been ten minutes). Continue cooking until the beef is browned and no pink remains. If there’s excess grease, carefully drain it off. This step lays the foundation for deep, meaty flavor.

Tip: For a lighter version, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead. You can check out my Healthy Ground Lamb Vegetable Soup for more ideas on how to use lean proteins in comforting soups.

Step 2: Add the Broth and Tomatoes for a Flavorful Base

Now that your beef is perfectly browned, it’s time to layer in that rich, tomato-infused broth. Pour in the beef broth and the two cans of chopped tomatoes — juice and all. Add the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar (if you’re using it for a hint of sweetness), and Italian seasoning. Stir everything well so the ingredients combine smoothly. Then bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 8 to 10 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, giving your soup a balanced, slightly tangy depth.

Pro Tip: If you like your soups extra flavorful, you might enjoy my Hearty Beef and Barley Soup, which uses a similar slow-simmer technique for maximum taste.

Step 3: Cook the Macaroni Until Tender

Here comes the Beef and Macaroni Soup step by step magic — adding the macaroni. Stir in the dry pasta and let it cook right in the broth for about 12 to 15 minutes. The pasta will soak up all that delicious tomato-beef flavor, turning into tender, savory bites that make this soup so satisfying. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent the noodles from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add a splash of milk or a handful of shredded cheese toward the end.
Quick Fix: If you’re short on time, pre-cooked pasta can be stirred in just before serving. Learn more about efficient cooking shortcuts in my One Pot Creamy Chicken Soup, where I share easy time-saving tips.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust Seasonings

Once the macaroni is cooked, give your soup a taste. Add garlic salt, pepper, or a pinch more Italian seasoning to your liking. If you want a bit of heat, try a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes — it’s a small step that takes the flavor to the next level. Don’t be afraid to tweak it; every cook’s palate is different, and that’s what makes home cooking special.

Step 5: Serve It Hot and Add Finishing Touches

Now the fun part — serving! Ladle your Beef and Macaroni Soup into big, cozy bowls. Top each serving with a little shredded cheese for creamy richness or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and brightness. Serve it with a side of warm garlic bread or buttered rolls to soak up every last drop of that delicious broth. This is comfort food at its best — simple, wholesome, and full of heart.
Serving Suggestion: Pair this soup with a crisp salad or my Roasted Winter Vegetable Soup for a cozy two-soup dinner night that everyone will love.

Step 6: Optional Add-ins and Variations

If you’re feeling creative, this Beef and Macaroni Soup step by step guide is just the beginning. Add in diced carrots, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrition. Want a smoky twist? Use fire-roasted tomatoes or a dash of smoked paprika. You can even swap the pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free noodles if needed.

This soup is wonderfully forgiving and endlessly customizable — the kind of recipe you’ll make again and again, tweaking it a little each time until it becomes your own. And if you love comforting soups like this, don’t miss my Creamy Dill Pickle Soup for another cozy classic with a fun twist.

What to Serve with Beef and Macaroni Soup

This soup is hearty enough to stand on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, there are plenty of great options. Pair it with a simple green salad for freshness or some warm garlic bread to soak up that rich tomato broth. A side of roasted vegetables also complements it beautifully. And if you love a cozy soup night, try serving it alongside my Delicious Creamy Tortellini Soup or Crock Pot Chicken Fajita Soup for a fun soup sampler dinner.

Key Tips for Making Beef and Macaroni Soup

1. Don’t overcook the pasta. It continues to absorb liquid even after cooking, so stop when it’s just tender.
2. Adjust seasoning to taste. A pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes adds depth if you like a kick.
3. Use quality broth. Since it’s the soup’s backbone, a good beef broth makes all the difference.
4. Add veggies for extra nutrition. Diced carrots, bell peppers, or even a handful of spinach mix in perfectly.
5. Make it creamy. Stir in a splash of heavy cream or top with a bit of shredded cheese for a richer texture.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Beef and Macaroni Soup

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The pasta will absorb more broth over time, so when reheating, add a little water or broth to loosen it up. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. It can also be reheated in the microwave in 1-minute intervals. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove for best results.

FAQs

Can I use other pasta shapes? Yes! Small shells, elbow macaroni, or ditalini all work well.
Can I make this vegetarian? Substitute the beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth.
What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce? Soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar works as a good replacement.
Can I make it in a slow cooker? Absolutely! Brown the beef first, then combine all ingredients (except pasta) in the slow cooker. Add the pasta during the last 30 minutes.

Final Thoughts

Beef and Macaroni Soup is more than just a recipe — it’s comfort in a bowl. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together around the table, even on the busiest weeknights. With simple ingredients, quick prep, and a flavor that warms you from the inside out, this soup deserves a spot in your regular rotation. Try it once, and it’ll be one of those go-to dinners that makes you wonder how you ever lived without it.

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