One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup

This One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup is a classic! Perfect for busy weeknights, it brings together hearty ingredients in just 30 minutes. With its rich flavors and nutritious veggies, this meal is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this soup is versatile enough to fit any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This soup can be ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• One Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pot.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with vegetables and lean beef, it’s a wholesome option for your family.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of Italian seasoning and spices makes every spoonful delightful.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main dish or serve alongside a fresh salad or bread.

Tools and Preparation

To make this One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup efficiently, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make all the difference in your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the soup evenly and allowing enough space for all ingredients.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables without damaging your countertops.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping quicker and more efficient, saving you time in preparation.

Ingredients

This One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup is packed with wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully.

For the Soup Base

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

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 5 cups low sodium beef broth

Vegetables & Pasta

• 798 ml canned diced tomatoes (28 oz) – 1 large can
• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat macaroni pasta, uncooked

Sauce Component

• 1 cup tomato sauce

How to Make One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Heat a large pot over medium high heat. Add canola oil to the pot. Once the oil is hot, add finely chopped carrots, onion, and celery. Cook while stirring until the vegetables have softened slightly, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 2: Add Seasonings

Add Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, paprika, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to the pot. Stir and cook for an additional minute to release the flavors of the spices.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Introduce lean ground beef into the pot. Use a wooden spoon to stir it around until it crumbles evenly. Cook until it’s lightly browned, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in low sodium beef broth and canned diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil. Cover the pot and let it cook for 5-10 minutes until carrots are tender.

Step 5: Add Pasta

Stir in uncooked whole wheat macaroni pasta along with tomato sauce. Cover again and continue cooking while stirring often—be careful not to let the pasta stick to the bottom—until al dente (about 7-8 minutes). Serve hot!

How to Serve One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup

Serving One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup is a delightful experience. This hearty dish can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, making it perfect for any occasion.

Pair with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves – Add some torn basil leaves for an aromatic touch that enhances the flavors.

Complement with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread – Serve alongside warm garlic bread for a comforting meal.
• Sourdough Rolls – Use crusty sourdough rolls to soak up the delicious broth.

Create a Salad Side

• Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad pairs well, adding crunch and creaminess.
• Mixed Green Salad – A light mixed green salad with vinaigrette balances the soup’s richness.

Offer Cheese Toppings

• Shredded Parmesan – Top each bowl with shredded Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
• Cheddar Cheese – Melted cheddar adds a creamy, savory element to the soup.

How to Perfect One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup

Perfecting your One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup can elevate this dish even further. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables will provide better flavor and nutrients than canned or frozen.
• Adjust Seasonings – Taste as you go! You can add more Italian seasoning or spices based on your preference.
• Brown the Beef Well – Ensure the ground beef is browned nicely to develop deeper flavors.
• Watch Pasta Cooking Time – Stir often and check the pasta for doneness to avoid overcooking.
• Incorporate More Veggies – Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition.
• Store Properly – If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup

Complementing your One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup with side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Knots – Soft dough knots brushed with garlic butter make a tasty companion.
2. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds a healthy, crunchy contrast to the soup.
3. Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful textural balance.
4. Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing side dish.
5. Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables brings color and nutrients to your plate.
6. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs offer a satisfying crunch alongside the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup, a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-ideal results. Here are some tips to avoid them.

• Not chopping vegetables evenly: Unevenly chopped vegetables can cook at different rates. Make sure to chop your carrots, onion, and celery into similar sizes for even cooking.
• Skipping the seasoning: Seasoning is crucial for flavor. Don’t skip the Italian seasoning and other spices; they enhance the soup’s taste significantly.
• Adding pasta too early: If you add the macaroni too soon, it may become mushy. Wait until the broth and tomatoes have simmered before adding it.
• Not stirring enough: Macaroni can stick to the bottom of the pot if not stirred regularly. Keep an eye on it while it cooks to prevent sticking.
• Overcooking the beef: Ground beef should be browned but not overcooked. Cook just until lightly browned to keep it tender in your soup.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup

• Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags for best results.

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 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for about 3-5 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey can be a great substitute if you’re looking for a leaner option without compromising on flavor.

What can I add for extra vegetables?

Feel free to include spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and texture in your One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup.

How can I make it spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking to increase the heat level of your soup.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute whole wheat macaroni with gluten-free pasta options available at most grocery stores.

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup is not only quick and easy but also versatile! You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or different types of meat. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a family gathering, this hearty soup is sure to please everyone’s palate. Give it a try!