One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup

This One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup is a satisfying meal that comes together in just 30 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this soup is packed with flavor and nutrients. It’s a comforting dish that combines tender beef, hearty macaroni, and vibrant vegetables, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy days.
• One Pot Wonder: With everything cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of Italian seasoning and fresh vegetables delivers a deliciously rich taste.
• Versatile Meal: Customize with your favorite vegetables or switch the beef for turkey if desired.
• Nutritious Option: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup supports a balanced diet.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a seamless experience. Having the right equipment makes all the difference in simplifying your time in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Stirring spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking all ingredients together without risk of overflow.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Ensures quick and easy chopping, enhancing your prep speed.

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 Protein and Broth

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

For the Pasta and Tomatoes

• 798 ml canned diced tomatoes (28 oz)
• 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: Heat the Oil

Heat a large pot over medium high heat and add canola oil. Once hot, add carrots, onion, and celery. Cook while stirring until vegetables soften slightly, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 2: Add Seasonings

Add Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, paprika, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute to let the flavors meld.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Add ground beef to the pot. Stir to crumble it as it cooks until lightly browned; this should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Incorporate Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil. Cover the pot and cook for 5-10 minutes until carrots have softened.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Stir in whole wheat macaroni pasta and tomato sauce. Cover again and cook while stirring often—be careful as macaroni can stick to the bottom—for about 7-8 minutes until pasta is al dente. Serve hot!

How to Serve One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup

Serving this One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup can elevate your meal experience. It’s hearty enough to stand alone, but pairing it with the right sides can enhance its flavors.

With Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top just before serving for a burst of freshness.
• Chives: Add chopped chives for a mild onion flavor that complements the soup well.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: Serve with warm sourdough for dipping; its tangy flavor balances the soup’s richness.
• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds a savory crunch that pairs perfectly with the soft macaroni.

In a Bread Bowl

• Edible Bowls: For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This makes for an impressive presentation and is delicious!

How to Perfect One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup

Perfecting this One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup can make it even more enjoyable. Here are some tips to consider.

• Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the soup healthy while still rich in flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed; you may prefer more salt or spice depending on your palate.
• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
• Choose Whole Wheat Pasta: Using whole wheat macaroni adds fiber, making the dish heartier and healthier.

Best Side Dishes for One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup

Pairing side dishes with your One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup can enhance your meal. Here are some great options.

1. Garden Salad: A fresh garden salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette offers a light contrast to the hearty soup.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli provides a nutritious side that complements the soup’s flavors.
3. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: Flaky biscuits topped with cheese and garlic add a comforting touch to your meal.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring out natural sweetness, perfect alongside the savory soup.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the softness of the macaroni.
6. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add delightful sweetness that pairs well with tomato-based dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make small mistakes when preparing One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Skipping vegetable prep: Not chopping the vegetables finely can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to chop carrots, onions, and celery into small pieces for consistent texture.
• Overcooking the pasta: Leaving the macaroni in too long can make it mushy. Monitor the cooking time closely, aiming for al dente perfection.
• Neglecting seasoning: Forgetting to adjust seasonings after adding broth can result in bland soup. Always taste before serving and adjust as needed.
• Using high-sodium broth: Opting for regular beef broth could make your soup too salty. Use low-sodium beef broth for better control over flavor.
• Not stirring frequently: Allowing the macaroni to stick to the bottom can ruin your dish. Stir often during the last minutes of cooking to prevent sticking.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
• It lasts up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative that will also keep the dish tasty while being leaner.

How do I make One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup healthier?

You can add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition without compromising flavor.

Can I substitute whole wheat macaroni with another type of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer; just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What can I serve with One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup?

This soup pairs well with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

One Pot Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavors that appeal to everyone. The versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it with different vegetables or pasta shapes based on your preferences. Give it a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!