If you’re craving something warm, satisfying, and packed full of flavor, this Hearty Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together tender ground beef, vibrant tomato goodness, and perfectly cooked macaroni in a rich broth that feels like a comforting hug in a bowl. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you want a meal that feels homemade and wholesome, this soup hits every note with its wonderful balance of textures and robust, savory taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a clear glass bowl filled with raw ground meat, its texture coarse and pinkish-red, placed on a white marbled surface. Surrounding it are six small white bowls: one with small yellow pasta, another holding diced orange carrots, one with a red tomato sauce topped with green herb paste, a bowl with chopped green vegetables and sliced small orange tomatoes, one containing white cheese crumbs with whole peeled garlic cloves, and a small container with a spice bottle behind the bowls. Fresh green parsley leaves are placed on the right side. The whole setup is neat and bright, with a clean white marbled background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating that perfect bowl of soup. Each item here plays an essential role, from adding depth to the broth to giving the soup its characteristic heartiness and color.

Lean ground beef: Provides rich protein and forms the savory base of the soup.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables to bring out their natural sweetness.
Yellow onion: Adds a subtle sharpness and depth when sautéed.
Carrots: Contribute a gentle sweetness and vibrant color to the soup.
Garlic cloves: Infuse the broth with aromatic warmth and flavor.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors together.
Low-sodium beef broth: Forms the soul of the soup, grounding it with a rich, meaty flavor.
Tomato sauce: Gives the soup its luscious tomato base and tanginess.
Petite diced tomatoes: Add texture and bursts of tomato flavor throughout.
Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the umami complexity and deepens the taste.
Fresh marjoram and thyme: These herbs bring a fragrant, earthy quality that brightens the broth.
Bay leaves: Infuse subtle herbal notes during cooking, removed before serving.
Dry small elbow pasta: Adds comforting bites that soak up all the delicious broth.
Frozen corn (optional): Offers a sweet crunch and extra color for those who want a bit of brightness.
Fresh parsley and finely grated parmesan cheese: Perfect finishing touches that elevate the dish with freshness and richness.

How to Make Hearty Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating one tablespoon of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Toss in the chopped yellow onions and carrots and let them sauté for about three minutes until they soften and release their sweet aromas. Then add the minced garlic and continue to cook for another minute. This simple process creates a flavorful vegetable base that really makes the soup sing, so don’t rush it. Once done, carefully transfer the vegetables to a plate.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Using the same pot, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and add the lean ground beef. Season it generously with salt and freshly ground pepper. Cook the beef, breaking it up with your spoon, until it is well browned and no longer pink. Make sure to drain excess fat at this point to keep the soup hearty but not greasy. This browning step is critical for developing that deep, meaty taste that makes this recipe truly comforting.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Return the sautéed vegetables back into the pot with the browned beef. Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, petite diced tomatoes, and Worcestershire sauce. Add the fresh marjoram, thyme, and bay leaves, then season with additional salt and pepper according to your taste. Bring everything to a gentle boil. This stage marries all the flavors together, preparing the soup for the pasta to absorb that rich tomato and herb-infused broth.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

Once boiling, stir in the elbow macaroni and cover the pot. Reduce the heat to medium and let the pasta cook, stirring occasionally, for about 15 to 20 minutes until it reaches perfect tenderness. The pasta will soak in the savory tomato broth, making each bite bursting with flavor and heartiness that defines this recipe.

Step 5: Add Corn (Optional)

If you’re a fan of a little sweet crunch, stir in the frozen corn during the last three minutes of cooking. This addition brightens the soup visually and flavor-wise, offering a delightful contrast to the savory beef and tomatoes.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Before serving, remove the bay leaves and ladle the soup into bowls. Top each serving with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley and a fine grating of parmesan cheese for an extra layer of taste and texture. The result is a soul-warming bowl of pure comfort that’ll keep you cozy and satisfied.

How to Serve Hearty Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe

A close-up view of a metal ladle full of tomato soup held above a pot, showing three main layers: the top layer with bright red whole tomatoes with a smooth, slightly shiny surface; underneath, small brown crumbled meat and diced translucent onion pieces mixed with chunks of orange and red tomatoes; the bottom layer contains short, pale yellow spiral macaroni pasta, all swimming in a thin, deep red broth with visible herbs and spices in the background on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley adds a pop of green freshness and a mild bitter note that balances the rich broth, while parmesan cheese brings a creamy saltiness that makes every spoonful irresistible. Both garnishes let you personalize your bowl and elevate the overall experience.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or warm garlic knots, perfect for dipping and soaking up that luscious tomato broth. A simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette can also lighten up the meal for a lovely balance.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this soup in small bread bowls, turning the container into an edible part of the feast. Alternatively, garnish with crispy fried onions or a dollop of sour cream for an extra indulgent touch that friends and family will adore.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your delicious Hearty Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to three days, making it a perfect option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

This soup freezes well, though for best pasta texture, you might want to undercook the pasta slightly before freezing. When ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently. You can also freeze without the pasta and add freshly cooked macaroni when reheating to maintain an ideal texture.

Reheating

Reheat the soup over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup thickens too much while cooling, simply add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it back up to your desired consistency.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta in this soup?

Absolutely! While small elbow macaroni works perfectly, you can use other small-shaped pastas like ditalini, shells, or even mini penne. Just remember cooking times may vary slightly.

Is it possible to make this soup without beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or even omit the meat altogether and increase the vegetables for a vegetarian take. The flavors will still be delicious!

Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?

Definitely! Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, adding pasta during the last 30 minutes.

What herbs work best if I don’t have fresh marjoram or thyme?

Dried herbs are a fine substitute, as noted in the recipe. If you don’t have marjoram or thyme, oregano or rosemary can provide a similar earthy note, but use them sparingly so as not to overpower the flavors.

Can I make this soup spicier?

Yes! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce when combining the ingredients. This will add a nice warmth that complements the richness of the beef and tomatoes.

Final Thoughts

There is nothing quite as comforting as a hot bowl of this Hearty Beef and Tomato Macaroni Soup Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm embrace after a long day and makes any meal feel special. I promise, once you make it, you’ll want to keep it in your regular recipe rotation. Give it a try, share it with loved ones, and enjoy every delicious spoonful!