Hamburger Soup with Macaroni

Hamburger Soup with Macaroni is a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Made with ground beef, tender pasta, and a rich tomato-based broth, this soup is packed with flavor and incredibly satisfying. It’s a budget-friendly, family-approved recipe that comes together quickly and is perfect for meal prep or freezing for later.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and affordable ingredients.
• Hearty & Filling: Loaded with ground beef, pasta, and veggies for a complete meal.
• Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day and freezes well!

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 cup elbow macaroni
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
• 1 cup frozen peas or corn (optional)
• Fresh parsley or grated Parmesan for garnish (optional)

Directions

1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned. Drain excess grease if necessary.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften.
3. Add the Liquids & Seasonings: Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
4. Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked macaroni to the pot and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Final Touches: Stir in frozen peas or corn (if using) and cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve & Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.
• Cheesy Twist: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese before serving for a creamy, cheesy soup.
• Different Pasta: Try small shells, ditalini, or rotini instead of macaroni.
• Vegetable-Packed: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients.
• Turkey Version: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Slow Cooker Option: Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients (except pasta) to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add cooked pasta before serving.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze soup (without the pasta) for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, reheat and add freshly cooked pasta.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally. Add extra broth if needed, as pasta absorbs liquid over time.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes! Use about 2 cups of diced fresh tomatoes in place of canned.

How do I keep the pasta from getting mushy?

For best results, cook the pasta separately and add it to individual servings to prevent it from soaking up too much broth.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook everything except the pasta in the slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Add cooked pasta just before serving.

Can I use vegetable or chicken broth instead of beef broth?

Yes! The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.

What’s the best way to make this soup thicker?

If you want a thicker soup, reduce the broth slightly or mash some of the cooked vegetables for a heartier texture.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes! This recipe doubles easily—just make sure you have a large enough pot.

How can I add more protein?

Add extra ground beef, cooked shredded chicken, or a can of drained beans (like kidney or black beans).

What sides go well with this soup?

Crusty bread, garlic bread, a side salad, or grilled cheese sandwiches pair perfectly with this hearty soup.

Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes! Use your favorite gluten-free macaroni, but be aware that gluten-free pasta may cook faster, so check for doneness early.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to loosen the soup if it thickens.

Conclusion

Hamburger Soup with Macaroni is the ultimate comfort food—hearty, flavorful, and easy to make. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or prepping meals for the week, this soup is sure to be a hit. Try out different variations, store it for later, and enjoy a bowl of cozy, satisfying goodness!

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