Macaroni Soup
A hearty, savory macaroni soup with Italian sausage, tomatoes, and herbs, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings with bold flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a pan over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, chopped onion, minced garlic, and crushed oregano until the sausage is browned.
- Spoon off excess fat from the pan.
- Add the tomato soup, condensed beef broth, undrained tomatoes, water, and pepper to the pan.
- Heat the mixture to boiling, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the uncooked macaroni and cook for an additional 10 minutes or until the macaroni is tender, stirring occasionally.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine while cooking the sausage. You can substitute Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth instead. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition, making it more like a hearty stew.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the macaroni soup hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple side salad to balance the meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Stuffed Super Shells or a light Italian recipe for a wonderful dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a little extra water or broth if needed to maintain creaminess. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Macaroni Soup contains roughly 1125 calories, with 33g protein, 181g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (196% of the Daily Value), and calcium (146% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1233mg per serving (54% 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 different types of pasta in this soup?
Yes, you can use other small pasta shapes like ditalini or penne. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the pasta is tender but not overcooked. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary based on the type and size of the pasta used.
Can I freeze macaroni soup?
Yes, this soup can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove, adding a bit of water or broth to restore its original consistency.
What can I add to make the soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when cooking the sausage. You could also use spicy Italian sausage for a bolder flavor. Adjust the amount based on your personal spice preference, and remember to taste as you go!
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).