Hearty Beef-Macaroni Soup
Hearty beef-macaroni soup combines tender beef, pasta, and vegetables in a flavorful broth, perfect for comforting family dinners and cold-weather gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a 5-quart soup pot.
- Add beef cubes and brown for about 5 minutes.
- Reduce heat; add chopped onions and cook for approximately 5 minutes, stirring until soft.
- Stir in flour and cook briefly.
- Whisk in beef broth and gently scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen browned bits.
- Add canned tomatoes, celery salt, and 4 cups water to the pot.
- Stir in uncooked macaroni, frozen corn, and frozen peas.
- Cover and bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider searing the beef longer or adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce. You can substitute the macaroni with any small pasta, or even quinoa for a gluten-free option. Adding fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can enhance the dish. If you have leftover vegetables, toss them in for added nutrition. This soup is a great way to use up pantry staples, like canned mushrooms.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty soup with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a nice touch. For a comforting family dinner, pair it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh side of roasted vegetables. It also pairs beautifully with Beef Potato Bake for a satisfying meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain the soup's consistency. It can also be reheated in the microwave, but stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hearty Beef-Macaroni Soup contains roughly 801 calories, with 32g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (65% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (60% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 617mg per serving (27% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground beef instead of cubed beef?
Yes, you can use ground beef for a quicker-cooking option. Just brown it in the vegetable oil before adding the onions. This will give you a slightly different texture, but it will be just as delicious. Make sure to drain any excess fat after browning if you prefer a leaner soup.
Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding a bay leaf during cooking for depth of flavor. You might also incorporate a teaspoon of smoked paprika or crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can also complement the dish nicely. Experimenting with spices can elevate this soup further.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).