This One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup is a delightful meal that brings warmth and comfort to your table. With its hearty ingredients and rich flavors, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious, nutritious soup packed with vegetables that the whole family will love. This versatile dish is not only easy to make, but it’s also an excellent way to enjoy a healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe can be made in just 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy nights.
- One Pot Wonder: Simplify cleanup with this easy one pot meal that combines everything you need.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and lean beef, this soup is both filling and healthy.
- Versatile Dish: Customize the soup by adding your favorite veggies or spices to suit your taste.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone will love the comforting flavors of beef and tomato, making it perfect for all ages.
Tools and Preparation
To make this One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup efficiently, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: A spacious pot allows for even cooking and prevents overflow when boiling.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface.
Ingredients
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
For the Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 5 cups low sodium beef broth
- 798 ml canned diced tomatoes (28 oz) 1 large can
- 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 the oil is hot, add carrots, onion, and celery. Cook and stir until vegetables have softened slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 2: Add Seasonings
Add Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, paprika, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute to enhance the flavors.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Add ground beef to the pot. Stir to crumble it as it cooks until lightly browned, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Incorporate Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in the broth and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil. Cover and cook for 5-10 minutes until carrots are tender.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Stir in macaroni pasta and tomato sauce. Cover again and cook while stirring often—be cautious as pasta may stick to the bottom! Cook until pasta is al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Serve hot!
Enjoy your homemade One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup—a wholesome meal that’s sure to please everyone!
How to Serve One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup
This One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. You can enhance the meal experience with a few simple additions or accompaniments.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- A warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup, adding a satisfying texture and flavor.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped fresh parsley or basil sprinkled on top adds a burst of freshness and color.
Serve with Grated Cheese
- A sprinkle of grated cheese like cheddar or mozzarella can enhance the creaminess of the soup.
Accompany with a Side Salad
- A light green salad dressed with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup.
Include Pickled Vegetables
- Pickled vegetables provide a tangy contrast that complements the savory flavors of the soup.
How to Perfect One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup
To elevate your One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup, consider these helpful tips for perfecting this recipe.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality beef broth will enhance the overall flavor of your soup.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak seasonings according to your taste. Add more garlic or spices for an extra kick.
- Cook Pasta Separately: To prevent overcooking, you can cook pasta separately and add it just before serving.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat Gently: When reheating, do so on low heat to avoid burning the bottom of the pot.
- Add More Veggies: Incorporate more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup
Complement your One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup with these delicious side dishes. Each option brings something unique to your meal.
- Garlic Bread: This classic side is great for soaking up any remaining broth in your bowl.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing offers a crunchy contrast to the soup’s texture.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers add color and nutrients to your meal.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a refreshing crunch alongside your warm soup.
- Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice and cheese make for a hearty addition.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with soups, adding a comforting touch to your dinner table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few tips to help you avoid them.
- Ignoring vegetable prep: Not chopping your vegetables finely can lead to uneven cooking. Always ensure they are chopped uniformly for the best results.
- Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the macaroni for too long, it can become mushy. Aim for al dente by checking the pasta a minute or two before the recommended time.
- Skipping seasoning adjustments: Every broth has different sodium levels. Taste and adjust your seasonings as needed to enhance the flavor of your soup.
- Not stirring enough: Failing to stir frequently can cause the macaroni to stick to the bottom of the pot. Stir often to prevent this and ensure even cooking.
- Using low-quality canned tomatoes: Poor quality tomatoes can impact the overall taste of your soup. Opt for high-quality canned diced tomatoes for a richer flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days.
- Allow soup to cool completely before sealing and refrigerating.
Freezing One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Leave room at the top of containers for expansion as liquid freezes.
Reheating One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup that may help you.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative that will still give you a delicious flavor while being leaner than beef.
How can I customize my One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup?
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
What if I don’t have whole wheat macaroni?
You can substitute with any pasta type you prefer, such as regular elbow macaroni or gluten-free options.
How do I know when my pasta is done?
Check the package instructions for cooking time but start testing a minute or two early. You want it al dente—cooked but still firm.
Final Thoughts
One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup is not just quick and easy; it’s also versatile! With simple ingredients, you can customize this hearty dish according to your taste preferences. Give it a try today—you won’t be disappointed!
One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup
Indulge in the comforting warmth of One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup, a nutritious and hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. This savory dish combines tender ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and whole wheat macaroni simmered in a rich tomato broth. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s not only quick to prepare but also a fantastic way to gather the family around the dinner table. Enjoy this one-pot wonder with its customizable ingredients that cater to everyone’s taste!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6
Ingredients
- 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
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 5 cups low sodium beef broth
- 798 ml canned diced tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat macaroni pasta, uncooked
- 1 cup tomato sauce
Instructions
- Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add canola oil. Sauté chopped carrots, onion, and celery until softened (3-4 minutes).
- Stir in Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, paprika, pepper, and red pepper flakes; cook for an additional minute.
- Add ground beef, cooking until browned (2-3 minutes) while crumbling it.
- Pour in broth and diced tomatoes; bring to a boil and cover for about 5-10 minutes until carrots are tender.
- Stir in macaroni and tomato sauce; cover again and cook for another 7-8 minutes until pasta is al dente.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 400g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Feel free to customize by adding your favorite veggies like bell peppers or spinach. For leftovers, store in airtight containers; they last up to 3 days.
