Recipe Guide:
Tomato and Beef Macaroni Soup Recipe – A Warm Hug in a Bowl
There’s something magical about the first cool breeze of autumn, when the leaves begin to change and the air fills with the earthy scent of falling foliage. A cozy, inviting aroma wafts through the kitchen as a pot of Tomato and Beef Macaroni Soup bubbles away on the stove, drawing family and friends in from the chilly outside world. This soup isn’t just food; it’s a warm hug that brings back memories of family dinners on chilly nights, where laughter mingles with the savory scent of beef and tomatoes.
Why You’ll Love It
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy evenings
- Comforting homemade flavor that warms the soul
- Made with simple ingredients you probably have on hand
- Great for any occasion—really, it fits every table!
- Always a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to bring smiles
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound lean ground beef
Use a lean beef to keep it healthy, - 1/2 cup ketchup
That touch of sweetness deepens the flavor. - 2 large cans chopped or diced tomatoes
Fresh or canned, just ensure they’re good quality. - 2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
For that rich, tangy kick! - 2 tsp onion powder
Perfect for a quick flavor boost. - 3 tsp minced garlic
Fresh garlic gives it that extra flavor boost. - 7 1/4 cups beef broth
You’ll want a rich broth — homemade is best! - 2 tbsp brown sugar
Balances the acidity of the tomatoes. - 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
This really ties everything together. - Salt and pepper to taste
Essential seasonings to suit your palate. - 2 cups dry macaroni pasta
Grab your favorite shape, they all work! We’re going for comfort here. - Cheese for garnish (if desired)
Top it off with melted cheese for extra indulgence.
How to Make It
Now, let me guide you through making this delightful soup. Start by warming your heart and your kitchen by placing a large Dutch oven or stock pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef, minced garlic, and onion powder. You’ll hear that soft sizzle — that’s when it’s just right. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Afterward, drain any excess grease; we want to keep our soup light.
Next, pour in the beef broth and gently add the chopped tomatoes, Worcestershire Sauce, brown sugar, Italian Seasoning, and ketchup. Bring this beautiful mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. The aromas will fill your home, making it feel warm and inviting!
After that, add the dry macaroni pasta to the pot. Cook it for an additional 15 minutes or until the pasta is tender. As the pasta absorbs the soup’s flavors, it turns into pure comfort. Season it all with salt and pepper to your liking, then if you wish, sprinkle cheese on top for that delightful finishing touch.
Kitchen Tips
- Time-saving trick: Use pre-chopped garlic if you’re in a hurry; it’ll still taste fantastic!
- Common mistake fix: If your soup is too thick, just add a bit more beef broth until you reach your desired consistency.
- Creative twist: Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat in your Tomato and Beef Macaroni Soup.
Serving Ideas
This Tomato and Beef Macaroni Soup is perfect for any occasion. Serve it up in big bowls for a family dinner, let it warm your loved ones on a chilly Sunday brunch, or even present it as a cozy dish during the holidays. A sprinkle of fresh herbs or some crusty bread on the side makes it even better. Everyone will feel at home, surrounded by hearty flavors and the warmth of each other’s company.
Storing & Leftovers
- Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to keep that lovely texture intact.
- For a fun leftover idea, use the soup as a filling for savory stuffed peppers — just scoop it into halved peppers, top with cheese, and bake!
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Definitely! In fact, this Tomato and Beef Macaroni Soup often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
Q: Can I swap any ingredients?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to adjust based on what you have—this recipe is very forgiving.
Q: What’s the best way to serve it?
A: Fresh from the pan, while it’s still warm and aromatic; that’s the magic!
Q: How do I know it’s perfectly cooked?
A: Look for just the right thickness and that delicious, fragrant smell — that’s your sign!
Final Thoughts
This Tomato and Beef Macaroni Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a cherished recipe that has traveled through generations in my family. It’s about gathering around the table, sharing smiles, and feeling loved. I encourage you to make it your own, perhaps adding your favorite herbs or spices. Remember, cooking isn’t just about following a recipe; it’s about making memories. So go ahead, create your own warm bowl of happiness with this Tomato and Beef Macaroni Soup. Enjoy!
Tomato and Beef Macaroni Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Place a large Dutch oven or stock pot over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef, minced garlic, and onion powder.
- Cook until the beef is no longer pink, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
- Drain any excess grease.
- Pour in the beef broth and gently add the chopped tomatoes, Worcestershire Sauce, brown sugar, Italian Seasoning, and ketchup.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Add the dry macaroni pasta to the pot.
- Cook for an additional 15 minutes or until the pasta is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to your liking, then sprinkle cheese on top if desired.
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