Beef & Macaroni Soup 🥣😋

Introduction:

Beef & Macaroni Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for a cozy meal. This savory soup combines ground beef, tender macaroni, and nutritious green beans in a rich tomato-based broth, seasoned with classic herbs for a delightful flavor. It’s an easy and satisfying meal for any day of the week.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup uncooked elbow macaroni
• 1 cup frozen green beans

Directions

1. Cook the Beef: In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it is browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add Vegetables and Seasoning: Add the diced onion, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Broth and Tomatoes: Stir in the beef broth, water, and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Cook Macaroni and Green Beans: Add the uncooked macaroni and frozen green beans to the pot. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until the macaroni is tender.
5. Serve: Serve the soup hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like carrots, peas, or corn for added nutrition.
• Spices: Customize the seasoning with additional spices like paprika or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
• Protein: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat, adding a little water or broth if needed to adjust the consistency.

10 FAQs

1. Can I freeze Beef & Macaroni Soup?
   • Yes, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
2. How do I adjust the thickness of the soup?
   • If the soup is too thick, add more beef broth or water. If too thin, let it simmer uncovered until it reduces.
3. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   • Yes, you can use other small pasta shapes like shells or mini penne.
4. Is it possible to make this soup in a slow cooker?
   • Yes, brown the beef and vegetables first, then transfer to a slow cooker with the rest of the ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Can I use canned vegetables instead of frozen green beans?
   • Yes, you can use canned green beans; just add them during the last few minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.
6. How can I make this soup spicier?
   • Add more black pepper, red pepper flakes, or a chopped jalapeño to increase the heat.
7. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
   • Yes, this soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
8. What can I serve with this soup?
   • Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
9. Can I use homemade beef broth?
   • Absolutely, homemade beef broth will add even more flavor to the soup.
10. Is this soup suitable for kids?
    • Yes, it is generally kid-friendly. Adjust the seasoning to taste and serve it as a wholesome meal.

Conclusion

Beef & Macaroni Soup is a classic and satisfying meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or a hearty lunch, this recipe provides a warm and comforting dish that the whole family will love. Enjoy the blend of savory beef, tender macaroni, and nutritious green beans in every bowl!

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