Old Fashioned Beef and Macaroni Soup: A Warm Hug in a Bowl
There’s something so heartwarming about a bowl of Old Fashioned Beef and Macaroni Soup. I remember cold winter evenings when the snow would blanket my little town, and my mom would whip up a huge pot of this soup, filling the house with its delicious aroma. The combination of tender beef, comforting macaroni, and vibrant veggies not only warmed our bellies but also brought our family together. Each spoonful felt like a cozy embrace, and now, every time I make it, I’m transported back to those cherished memories.
This soup is more than just tasty; it’s a complete meal! It’s easy to make and uses ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. Plus, it’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something hearty and wholesome without spending hours in the kitchen. So, let’s dive in!
What’s in Old Fashioned Beef and Macaroni Soup?
1 lb ground beef – This is the hearty protein base of the soup. I prefer using 80/20 ground beef because it has just the right amount of fat for flavor without being too greasy.
1 medium onion, chopped – Onions bring a wonderful sweetness and depth of flavor. I usually go for a yellow onion; it seems to caramelize beautifully as it cooks.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic is a game changer in almost any recipe! Fresh cloves are best, but pre-minced garlic works in a pinch (though it’s not quite the same).
2 carrots, diced – Sweet and crunchy, carrots add a pop of color and goodness. They also sweeten up the broth as they cook.
2 celery stalks, diced – Celery lends a lovely crunch and complements the other veggies perfectly.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice) – These tomatoes add acidity and a bit of tang to balance the richness of the beef. I love using fire-roasted diced tomatoes for an extra kick!
4 cups beef broth – Homemade is the best, but store-bought broth works too. Just check for low-sodium options if you’re watching your salt.
1 cup water – This helps achieve the perfect soup consistency.
1 cup elbow macaroni – The classic pasta choice! It absorbs the flavors of the soup beautifully. Feel free to swap it with any small pasta shape you like.
1 tsp dried oregano & 1 tsp dried basil – These herbs bring a warm and earthy flavor—perfect for a comforting soup.
Salt and black pepper to taste – Essential for enhancing all those delicious flavors!
Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish – A pretty finish that brightens up the dish!
Is Old Fashioned Beef and Macaroni Soup Good for You?
If you’re looking for nutrition in a bowl, look no further than this beefy delight! Here’s why I love it:
– **Protein Powerhouse**: The ground beef packs in protein, helping you feel full and satisfied. This is great after a long day or an intense workout.
– **Veggie Boost**: With the addition of carrots, celery, and tomatoes, you’re getting a decent serving of vegetables, making this soup a balanced meal.
– **Mood Booster**: There’s something inherently comforting about soup; it warms your body and soul. With the aromas wafting through your kitchen, you can’t help but smile and enjoy the moment.
But just a quick note: if you’re watching your sodium intake, you may want to adjust the salt and opt for a low-sodium broth. Enjoying this hearty soup in moderation is the key!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Make Old Fashioned Beef and Macaroni Soup?
- In a large pot over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat to keep things nice and light!
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the veggies are tender and your kitchen starts to smell amazing.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, and water. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, and get ready for all that flavor to meld together!
- Once boiling, add in the elbow macaroni, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season everything with salt and black pepper.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and let that delicious soup simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the macaroni is cooked al dente. You want it to have just a little bite!
- Give it a taste and adjust your seasoning if necessary. Sometimes a touch more salt or pepper is all it needs to shine!
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy every spoonful!
Soup-er Tips and Variations
– If you want to make it a bit healthier, swap out half the ground beef for some lentils or beans. It boosts the fiber and adds a new layer of flavor.
– Feel free to toss in other vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra color and nutrients. Sometimes, I sneak in some spinach for added health benefits!
– This soup is fantastic for meal prep! It stores well in the fridge for a few days or can even be frozen for a quick meal later on. Just reheat, and you’re good to go!
– Pair with some crusty bread or a crisp side salad for a complete meal.
I can’t express enough how much joy this soup brings to my kitchen! I hope you give this Old Fashioned Beef and Macaroni Soup a try. Trust me, your belly will thank you, and you’ll be creating your own wonderful memories in no time. Don’t forget to share your experiences with me—the stories we share are the ones that truly nourish our souls! Happy cooking!
