Description
A hearty and comforting Beef and Macaroni Soup combining tender ground beef, rich beef stock, fresh tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and tender elbow pasta. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, topped with shredded cheese and served with crusty bread.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound prime ground beef
- ½ cup finely chopped red onion
- 14 ounces fresh chopped tomatoes
- 1 ½ cups quick-freeze garden vegetables
Liquids and Sauces
- 6 cups rich beef stock
- 2 tablespoons sundried tomato puree
- 1 teaspoon traditional Worcestershire sauce
Herbs and Seasonings
- ½ teaspoon crushed oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried sweet basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta
- 1 ½ cups uncooked elbow pasta
Optional
- Freshly shredded cheese for topping
- Warm crusty bread for serving
Instructions
- Brown the Beef and Onions: In a robust soup cauldron, combine the ground beef and finely chopped red onions. Cook over medium heat until the beef is perfectly browned and the onions become translucent. Skim off any excess fat to keep the soup lean and flavorful.
- Add Broth and Flavorings: Pour in the rich beef stock. Add fresh chopped tomatoes, sundried tomato puree, Worcestershire sauce, crushed oregano, and dried sweet basil. Stir the mixture well and allow it to come to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld together.
- Cook Pasta and Vegetables: Add the uncooked elbow pasta along with the quick-freeze garden vegetables to the pot. Continue to simmer for approximately 8 minutes until the pasta is tender yet maintains its shape.
- Season the Soup: Taste and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper according to your preference. Stir the soup thoroughly to incorporate the seasoning evenly.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot soup into bowls. If desired, sprinkle freshly shredded cheese on top to add richness. Serve alongside warm crusty bread for a complete and comforting meal experience.
Notes
- Skimming excess fat helps make the soup leaner and healthier.
- Quick-freeze garden vegetables add convenient nutrition and color.
- Using fresh chopped tomatoes enhances the soup’s freshness.
- Worcestershire sauce contributes a subtle umami depth.
- Elbow pasta cooks quickly; avoid overcooking to prevent mushiness.
- Optional toppings like cheese and crusty bread enrich the eating experience.
