Looking for a soul-warming, budget-friendly meal that comes together in one pot? This Beef and Macaroni Soup is your answer. With its rich tomato base, tender pasta, and seasoned ground beef, it’s the kind of comfort food that brings everyone to the table. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this soup offers hearty satisfaction with every spoonful.

What sets this dish apart is its nostalgic flavor and simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. The combination of lean beef, elbow macaroni, and aromatic herbs delivers both ease and depth. It’s perfect for families, beginner cooks, or anyone craving a warm bowl of homemade goodness.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To get started with your Beef and Macaroni Soup, it’s helpful to have the right tools on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

Large Heavy-Bottomed Pot or Dutch Oven: This is crucial for even cooking and for allowing all the flavors to develop as the soup simmers. A 6-quart pot is ideal.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For stirring and breaking up the ground beef without damaging your cookware.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision ensures the broth, seasonings, and pasta are well balanced.
Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: For prepping onions, garlic, or optional vegetables like carrots and celery.
Ladle: Essential for serving the soup into bowls without mess.

Having these tools within reach helps the cooking process flow smoothly and keeps your kitchen organized from prep to plate.

Ingredients for the Beef and Macaroni Soup

Each ingredient in this Beef and Macaroni Soup plays a key role in flavor and texture:

Ground Beef – The hearty base of the soup, adding protein and rich depth.
Elbow Macaroni – A classic soup pasta that holds its shape and soaks up the broth deliciously.
Yellow Onion – Brings sweetness and aromatic backbone to the soup.
Garlic Cloves – Enhances the savory profile with warmth and depth.
Beef Broth – Forms the comforting base and enhances the meaty flavor.
Tomato Sauce – Adds body and richness to the broth, giving it a slight tang.
Diced Tomatoes (with juice) – Introduces a bright, chunky tomato element.
Italian Seasoning – A balanced mix of herbs to round out the savory notes.
Salt and Pepper – To season and bring out the natural flavors.
Fresh Parsley (optional) – For a fresh finish and vibrant color.

How To Make the Beef and Macaroni Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it’s fully browned, breaking it apart with your spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Simmer the Broth

Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Once boiling, add the elbow macaroni directly into the soup. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10–12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.

Step 5: Taste and Finish

Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Stir in fresh parsley just before serving for a pop of color.

Serving and Storing This Soup

Serve this Beef and Macaroni Soup piping hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and, if you like, a little grated Parmesan on top. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

This soup also holds up beautifully for leftovers. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just keep in mind the pasta will continue to absorb some of the broth, so you may want to add a splash of extra broth or water when reheating. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions without the pasta and add freshly cooked macaroni when serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of ground beef should I use?

Lean ground beef (85/15 or 90/10) works best to keep the soup flavorful without being overly greasy. Drain any excess fat after browning.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! This soup is great made ahead. If prepping in advance, cook the pasta separately and combine it just before serving to keep it from getting too soft.

Can I substitute other types of pasta?

Yes, small shells, rotini, or ditalini all work well in place of elbow macaroni. Just adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the shape.

How can I make this soup spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while simmering the broth for a gentle heat. You can also stir in a spoonful of chili paste.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, with a small tweak. Freeze the soup base without the pasta. When ready to eat, reheat the soup and add freshly cooked macaroni.

Can I add vegetables?

Definitely. Carrots, celery, peas, or corn make great additions. Sauté them along with the onion and garlic for the best flavor integration.

Want More Hearty Soup Ideas?

If this Beef and Macaroni Soup hit the spot, you’ll love diving into other comforting bowls packed with flavor and warmth.

You might also like the Hearty Tuscan Bean Soup, which layers beans, greens, and tomatoes for a rustic Italian feel. Or try the ultra-creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup—perfect for cheese lovers craving a rich and cozy meal.

For more beef-forward dishes, check out my Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta, a great choice when you want a cheesy, baked option. Another must-try is the Wendy’s Chili Recipe, a crowd favorite with bold spices and satisfying texture.

Want to go creamy and slow-cooked? The Crockpot Italian Meatball Soup brings the ultimate tenderness and herb-rich flavor to your table.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this recipe to your soup or comfort food boards on Pinterest. Just click the Pin button and keep it for your next cozy dinner.

If you make this Beef and Macaroni Soup, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you add veggies? Swap the pasta? Leave a comment below. I’m always inspired by your spins on the classics.

For more of my everyday recipe shares, check out my Pinterest at LadyPlate on Pinterest. I post fresh ideas daily!