There’s something truly special about a steaming bowl of Hamburger Soup with Macaroni. As you lift the spoon, you can’t help but notice the vibrant colors of the vegetables mingling with the rich, beefy broth. The tender macaroni absorbs all those delicious flavors, making each bite a warm hug for your soul. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, especially on those chilly evenings when I crave something hearty and comforting.
I’ve found that this soup comes together surprisingly fast, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want to serve something delicious without a lot of fuss. It’s versatile enough to dress up for a cozy dinner or keep it casual for a family gathering. And let’s be honest, the leftovers are just as good – if they last long enough to actually make it to the next day!
WHY I LOVE HAMBURGER SOUP WITH MACARONI
This Hamburger Soup with Macaroni hits that sweet spot of being incredibly easy and undeniably delicious! It combines comfort food charm with a bit of elegance, making it a true winner at my table. Plus, the flavor profile is so rich, thanks to the delightful combination of beef, veggies, and spices – it’s hard not to love it!
HAMBURGER SOUP WITH MACARONI INGREDIENTS
The magic of this Hamburger Soup truly lies in its harmony of fresh ingredients and cozy spices. Don’t worry about exact measurements just yet; those are all in the recipe card for you!
Core Ingredients and Their Roles
- 1 LB LEAN GROUND BEEF: The star of the show, this beef brings a hearty, rich flavor that forms the heart of the soup.
- 1 MEDIUM ONION, DICED: This little gem packs a savory punch that adds depth and sweetness to your broth.
- 3 CLOVES GARLIC, MINCED: Garlic works wonders by elevating flavors and gives that aromatic touch that’s hard to resist.
- 2 CARROTS, DICED: These vibrant pieces add natural sweetness and texture, making every spoonful a joy.
- 2 CELERY STALKS, CHOPPED: Celery brings a lovely crunch and complements the other veggies beautifully.
- 1 CAN (14.5 OZ) DICED TOMATOES: Bursting with flavor, these tomatoes add a tangy brightness to the dish.
- 4 CUPS LOW-SODIUM BEEF BROTH: The liquid gold that ties everything together, creating a luscious and flavorful base.
- 1 CUP ELBOW MACARONI PASTA: These little curves soak up all the delicious broth, adding a comforting texture.
- 2 TSP ITALIAN SEASONING: A fragrant blend that perfectly enhances the taste, giving it that Italian flair.
- SALT AND PEPPER TO TASTE: Essential for layering flavor; don’t forget to adjust to your liking!
SUBSTITUTIONS AND TIPS
Need a swap? If you’re looking to switch things up, here are a few ideas!
- Ground Turkey or Chicken: Use in place of ground beef for a lighter option, but it will be a bit milder in flavor.
- Vegetable Broth: If you want to go meat-free, vegetable broth can replace beef broth yet will provide a different taste profile.
- Any Pasta Shape: Got different pasta on hand? Feel free to use shells, rotini, or whatever you have in your pantry!
- Add Beans: Want extra protein? Toss in some kidney or black beans for a delicious twist!
- Timing Adjustments: If using a short pasta, reduce the simmering time to avoid overcooking!
KITCHEN TOOLS YOU’LL NEED
- Large pot (6-quart or similar)
- Wooden spoon (or spatula)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Ladle (for serving)
HOW TO MAKE HAMBURGER SOUP WITH MACARONI
Let’s dive into creating this heartwarming Hamburger Soup with Macaroni. I’ve broken down the process into simple steps, so follow along, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time. We’re aiming for a soothing, flavorful soup that everyone’s going to love!
Brown the Beef and Build Flavor
In a large pot over medium heat, brown the lean ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it apart with your spoon as you go. Drain any excess grease to keep the soup from becoming too oily. This step is key to developing a rich base for our soup.
Sauté Aromatics for Flavor Base
Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 3 minutes, letting those beautiful aromas fill your kitchen. This is where the magic begins!
Add Veggies for Color and Crunch
Now, stir in the diced carrots and chopped celery. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the veggies to soften slightly while still retaining a bit of their crunch. You want a good mix of texture here!
Introduce Tomatoes and Broth
Once your veggies are prepped, it’s time to add the canned tomatoes (juices included), beef broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a gentle boil and let those flavors mingle. The color should be rich and inviting!
Simmer with Macaroni
Next, stir in the elbow macaroni and reduce the heat to low. Simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. You want the macaroni to absorb the delicious broth without getting mushy – keep an eye on it!
Serve Hot and Garnish
Finally, serve hot, garnished with shredded cheese or fresh parsley if desired. The cheese adds a creamy richness that’s absolutely heavenly!
HOW TO STORE HAMBURGER SOUP WITH MACARONI
Leftovers of this Hamburger Soup with Macaroni remain just as hearty and flavorful! If left at room temperature, consume within 2 hours. For the fridge, store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. You can even freeze it for up to 2-3 months – just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove.
TIPS FOR SUCCESS
- Use lean meats to avoid a greasy soup.
- Don’t skip the sautéing step; it builds foundational flavors.
- Taste as you go; this lets you adjust the seasoning to your preference.
- For thicker soup, reduce broth slightly or add more pasta.
- Try garnishing with fresh herbs just before serving for a burst of color and flavor.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- Pair with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Drizzle with olive oil or a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra decadence.
- Serve in big bowls to showcase the vibrant colors of the ingredients.
- Offer a splash of hot sauce for those who enjoy a kick.
- Enjoy with a glass of red wine or sparkling water for a refreshing touch.
I hope you enjoy making this Hamburger Soup with Macaroni as much as I do! It’s perfect for those cozy evenings and sure to become a beloved dish in your home. Happy cooking!
