One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup

This One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup is a classic comfort dish that’s perfect for any occasion! It’s packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and comes together in just 30 minutes. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty meal for guests, this soup checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s loaded with nutritious ingredients that will keep you feeling satisfied.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in 30 minutes or less, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy the convenience of cooking everything in one pot, which means less cleanup!
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and lean ground beef, this soup offers a healthy balance of protein and fiber.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for lunch or dinner, and great for meal prep. It also freezes well for future meals.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The combination of Italian seasoning and fresh vegetables creates a deliciously comforting dish.

Tools and Preparation

To make your One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup smoothly, having the right tools is essential. These tools will not only speed up your cooking process but also enhance your overall experience in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: This is crucial for cooking your soup evenly and allows all ingredients to blend their flavors beautifully.
• Cutting board: A stable surface for chopping vegetables safely will make prep time faster and easier.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures quick, clean cuts, which is especially important when prepping multiple vegetables.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot, ensuring you can mix ingredients without worry.

Ingredients

This One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup is a classic! It’s a healthy, one pot meal made in 30 minutes or less and loaded with vegetables.

For the Base

• 1 tablespoon canola oil
• 3 large carrots (peeled and finely chopped)
• 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
• 1 rib celery (finely chopped)

Spices and Seasonings

• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes

Protein and Liquids

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 5 cups low sodium beef broth
• 798 ml canned diced tomatoes (28 oz) 1 large can

Pasta Addition

• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat macaroni pasta, uncooked
• 1 cup tomato sauce

How to Make One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat a large pot over medium high heat and add canola oil. When oil is hot:
1. Add carrots, onion, and celery.
2. Cook and stir until vegetables have softened slightly, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 2: Add Seasonings

Add Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, paprika, pepper, and pepper flakes:
– Cook for an additional minute to release the flavors.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Add ground beef:
– Stir to crumble it while cooking until lightly browned, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in the broth along with the canned tomatoes:
– Bring to a boil. Cover the pot and cook for 5-10 minutes until carrots are tender.

Step 5: Add Pasta

Stir in macaroni pasta and tomato sauce:
– Cover again; cook while stirring often (be cautious as macaroni may stick) until pasta is al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Serve hot!

How to Serve One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup

This hearty One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup can be served in various delightful ways. Enhancing the meal with the right accompaniments elevates the overall dining experience.

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for a burst of flavor and color.
• Chives: Finely chopped chives add a mild onion flavor that complements the soup well.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: Serve with warm sourdough bread for dipping, which adds a nice texture contrast.
• Garlic Bread: Garlic bread pairs beautifully, offering a savory crunch that balances the soup’s richness.

With Cheese

• Shredded Cheddar: Top each bowl with shredded cheddar cheese for a creamy and tangy finish.
• Parmesan: Grated Parmesan can enhance the flavors and adds a salty note that many enjoy.

As a Main Course

• With Salad: Serve alongside a light salad, like a mixed greens salad, to create a refreshing contrast.
• In a Bowl: Use deep bowls to serve the soup; this makes it easy to enjoy every last bite.

How to Perfect One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup

Creating the perfect One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and herbs to enhance flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you cook and feel free to adjust seasonings according to your preference.
• Monitor Pasta Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the pasta while it’s cooking; it should be al dente but not mushy.
• Stir Frequently: Stirring regularly prevents pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot and ensures even cooking.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to rest for a few minutes after cooking enhances its flavors as they meld together.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup

Pairing side dishes with your One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these breadsticks are perfect for dipping into your soup.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides crispness that complements the warm soup nicely.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color, flavor, and nutrients alongside your meal.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the richness of the soup with its acidity.
5. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins bring a comforting element that pairs well with savory soup.
6. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf offers another grain option that can absorb some of that delicious broth.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using too much salt: It’s easy to over-season your soup. Start with less salt, and adjust to taste after simmering.
• Not chopping vegetables evenly: Uneven cuts can lead to inconsistent cooking times. Ensure all vegetables are chopped to a similar size for even cooking.
• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing vegetables enhances their flavors. Don’t skip this step; it adds depth to your soup.
• Adding pasta too early: If you add the macaroni too soon, it may become mushy. Wait until the broth is boiling before adding the pasta.
• Covering the pot too tightly: While it’s important to cover the pot, ensure there’s a little space for steam to escape. This helps prevent overcooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2-3 months.
• Leave some space in containers as the soup will expand when frozen.

Reheating One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until hot. Add a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup.

What makes this One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup healthy?

This soup is packed with vegetables and lean ground beef, making it a nutritious meal option that is high in protein and fiber.

Can I customize the ingredients in One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

How long does One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup take to make?

From start to finish, this delicious soup takes about 30 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This soup stores well in the refrigerator or freezer, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Just reheat when ready to eat!

Final Thoughts

One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup is not only quick and easy but also versatile. You can customize it with various vegetables or spices based on your taste. This hearty dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Give it a try!