Classic Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that combines savory beef and delicious tomatoes with tender macaroni. It’s perfect for family dinners or when you want something warm and filling. This soup is not only satisfying but also easy to make, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. Plus, it can be made in a slow cooker or an Instant Pot, giving you flexibility depending on your schedule.
how to make Classic Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup diced onion
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 6 cups beef broth (very strong)
- One 28-ounce can diced tomatoes
- One 28-ounce can whole tomatoes
- ½ cup ketchup
- 1 ½ tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1-2 tablespoons brown sugar (to taste; if you have a sweeter ketchup, you may not need it)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3 cups cooked elbow macaroni (OR 2 cups dry macaroni to add in at the end)
- Salt and pepper as desired
Directions
Slow Cooker Directions
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
- Transfer the beef to the slow cooker and add the diced onion, minced garlic, beef broth, diced tomatoes, whole tomatoes, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stir well to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- If using dry macaroni, add it in the last 15-20 minutes of cooking. If using cooked macaroni, stir it in before serving.
Instant Pot Directions
- Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Brown the ground beef and drain excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until onions are soft.
- Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, whole tomatoes, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Close the lid and set to pressure cook for 10 minutes.
- If using dry macaroni, add it after the pressure cooking is done and let it sit for 5 minutes, then stir. If using cooked macaroni, stir it in before serving.
how to serve Classic Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup
Serve the soup hot in bowls. You can garnish it with grated cheese, fresh herbs, or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor. This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal.
how to store Classic Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the soup for longer storage. Just be sure to leave out the macaroni if you plan to freeze it, as it may become mushy when reheated.
tips to make Classic Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup
- For a thicker soup, use less broth or add a little tomato paste.
- You can add other vegetables such as carrots or celery to enhance the flavor and nutrition.
- If you like it spicy, consider adding some red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
variation
You can make a vegetarian version by replacing the ground beef with lentils or beans and using vegetable broth.
FAQs
Can I use beef other than ground beef?
Yes! You can use diced beef or beef tips. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I make this soup without a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
Absolutely! You can make it on the stovetop in a large pot. Just simmer everything together for about 30-40 minutes until the flavors meld.
What can I do if I don’t have beef broth?
You can substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth. The flavor will be different, but it will still be tasty!
