Hearty Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup – A Comforting and Flavorful Dish

This beefy tomato macaroni soup is perfect for a satisfying, comforting meal that brings the rich flavors of seasoned beef, creamy tomato broth, and tender pasta all together in one bowl. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it an excellent option for weeknight dinners when you crave something warm and hearty. The addition of cream cheese creates a smooth, rich texture, while fresh basil brings a burst of freshness that complements the savory broth.

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This recipe is a delightful twist on traditional tomato soup, loaded with beefy goodness and pasta to make it a complete meal on its own. Serve it with some crusty bread on the side to soak up the flavorful broth.

Why You’ll Love This Soup

This beefy tomato soup is a family-friendly recipe that’s simple yet packed with flavor. With ingredients you likely have in your pantry, it’s a no-fuss dish that comes together in about 30 minutes. The creamy tomato base combined with tender macaroni makes every spoonful satisfying, and the ground beef adds a comforting depth of flavor. The fresh basil at the end elevates the dish, adding a touch of brightness.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 4 Servings): Calories: 470 kcalFat: 25gCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 22gSodium: 850mgFiber: 4g

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to add a lighter contrast to the richness of the dish. You can also serve it with a grilled cheese sandwich for an extra indulgent meal. A glass of iced tea or a light red wine would complement the flavors well.

For dessert, try something simple like chocolate chip cookies or a slice of apple pie to round out the meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the soup in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. This soup also freezes well—simply allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.

Fun Fact: The History of Tomato Soup

Tomato soup became a staple in American kitchens in the early 20th century, particularly with the rise of canned soups, which offered a quick and convenient meal option. The combination of tomatoes and pasta can be found in various global cuisines, but this specific beefy, creamy version is a modern adaptation that adds a bit of extra indulgence to a classic comfort food.

Cooking Tips

Balance the Flavors: Adjust the seasoning to taste, especially with salt and pepper. The cream cheese adds richness, so make sure you balance it out with enough salt to enhance all the flavors.Perfect Pasta Texture: To avoid overcooking the pasta, make sure to stir halfway through the cooking time and check for doneness. If you prefer al dente pasta, you can reduce the cooking time slightly.Creamy Consistency: Whisking in the cream cheese ensures it melts smoothly into the soup. Make sure it’s at room temperature to avoid clumps.

Optional Variations

Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for plant-based meat or simply increase the amount of vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to create a hearty vegetarian version of this soup.Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce when cooking the beef to give the soup a spicy kick.Cheesy Twist: For an extra cheesy version, stir in an additional ½ cup of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese when adding the cream cheese.

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Beefy Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• ¾ lb ground beef
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 (24-ounce) jar of spaghetti sauce
• 4 cups chicken stock
• ½ cup cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1 ½ cups elbow macaroni or short-tubed pasta
• ¼ cup fresh chopped basil, divided

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring until the onion softens.
3. Add the ground beef to the onions, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink. Drain any excess drippings if necessary.
4. Season the beef mixture with salt, pepper, and oregano, stirring to combine.
5. Pour in the chicken stock and the spaghetti sauce, stirring well. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 10 minutes.
6. Whisk in the cream cheese until fully incorporated, then add 2 tablespoons of fresh basil.
7. Pour in the pasta, stir, and cover the pot. Let the pasta cook for about 10 minutes, stirring halfway through to prevent sticking.
8. Once the pasta is tender, spoon the soup into bowls and garnish with the remaining fresh basil. Serve hot and enjoy!

This hearty beefy tomato macaroni soup is sure to become a favorite in your home with its rich flavors, creamy broth, and satisfying texture.