Cozy Beef & Macaroni Soup Recipe Perfect for Cold Days

Introduction

The aroma of simmering beef, hearty vegetables, and tender macaroni filling your kitchen is enough to make you pause, take a deep breath, and smile. There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of cozy beef & macaroni soup, especially when the weather outside is chilly, and you’re craving something warm and satisfying. The first time I made this soup was on a rainy Sunday afternoon. I was looking for something that could warm us up, and after throwing a few pantry staples into a pot, this recipe was born. It was love at first bite!

Honestly, this soup is one of those recipes that feels like a hug in a bowl. My family couldn’t stop asking for seconds—they were sneaking spoonfuls straight from the pot before I could even ladle it into bowls! You know it’s good when you find yourself making it again and again, tweaking it just slightly to make it even better. The result? A recipe that’s become a staple in my kitchen, whether I’m hosting a casual get-together or just need a quick dinner that hits all the right notes.

Perfect for cozy evenings, family dinners, or even meal prep for the week, this beef & macaroni soup is a wonderful addition to your recipe repertoire. Trust me—once you try it, you’ll be bookmarking it for years to come.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: This soup comes together in under 45 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you need a comforting meal in a hurry.
• Simple Ingredients: You’ll likely have most of these ingredients in your pantry and fridge already—no need for a special grocery store trip.
• Perfect for Cold Days: The warm, hearty flavors are just what you need when it’s chilly outside.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love this soup—it’s filling, flavorful, and full of familiar ingredients.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The tender beef, perfectly cooked macaroni, and rich tomato broth make this soup a winner every time.

What sets this recipe apart is its balance of flavors and textures. The beef is perfectly seasoned, the macaroni adds a delightful chew, and the vegetables bring a pop of freshness to every bite. It’s a recipe that satisfies both your hunger and your soul. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply indulging in a bowl by yourself, this soup delivers comfort without compromise.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This cozy beef & macaroni soup is proof that simple ingredients can deliver robust flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ground beef: Lean ground beef works best, but you can use regular ground beef for extra flavor.
• Onion: Finely diced (adds depth of flavor).
• Garlic: Minced (for that irresistible aroma).
• Carrots: Chopped or sliced into bite-sized pieces (adds sweetness).
• Celery: Diced (for crunch and flavor).
• Crushed tomatoes: A can of high-quality crushed tomatoes or tomato puree (creates the base of the soup).
• Beef broth: Low-sodium is ideal—feel free to use homemade if you have it!
• Elbow macaroni: The classic small pasta shape that adds heartiness (substitute with gluten-free pasta if needed).
• Dried Italian seasoning: A blend of basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary for flavor.
• Bay leaf: Adds subtle earthy notes—just remove it before serving.
• Salt and pepper: Adjust to taste.
• Olive oil: For sautéing the veggies and beef.
• Optional toppings: Fresh parsley, Parmesan cheese, or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.

If you’re out of elbow macaroni, you can swap it for any small pasta like ditalini or shells. For those avoiding beef, ground turkey or plant-based crumbles work wonderfully too!

Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven: A sturdy pot is essential for simmering the soup evenly.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring the soup and breaking up the ground beef.
• Chef’s knife: For chopping vegetables (a sharp knife makes prep work so much easier).
• Cutting board: A sturdy surface for prepping your ingredients.
• Ladle: Essential for serving the soup.
• Grater: If you’re adding freshly grated Parmesan as a topping.

If you don’t have a Dutch oven, a heavy-bottomed soup pot works just as well. I’ve used both and have found that the Dutch oven retains heat better, making it easier to maintain a gentle simmer.

Preparation Method

1. Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in your large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add 1 finely diced onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 2 chopped carrots, and 2 diced celery stalks to the pot. Sauté for 5 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened and the onion is translucent.
3. Pour in 4 cups (960 ml) of low-sodium beef broth and 1 can (28 oz) of crushed tomatoes. Stir to combine.
4. Add 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning, 1 bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. After 20 minutes, stir in 1 cup (150 g) of dry elbow macaroni. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 7-9 minutes, until the pasta is tender.
7. Once the macaroni is cooked, remove the bay leaf and give the soup a final taste. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor.

Pro tip: If you’re making this soup ahead of time, cook the pasta separately and add it to the soup just before serving to avoid overcooking.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

To ensure your cozy beef & macaroni soup turns out perfect every time, here are a few tips:

• Don’t rush the browning: Taking the time to properly brown the ground beef adds depth and richness to the soup.
• Cut vegetables evenly: Try to chop the carrots and celery into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
• Keep your macaroni al dente: Overcooked pasta can turn mushy in soup, so keep an eye on the cooking time.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup before serving and add more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning if needed.
• Add toppings: A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh herbs like parsley can elevate the flavor profile.

One mistake I made early on was adding the macaroni too soon—it turned into a mushy mess. Now, I always wait until the soup has simmered and add the pasta right at the end for the perfect texture.

Variations & Adaptations

This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:

• Gluten-Free Option: Swap out the elbow macaroni for gluten-free pasta or even rice for a grain-free alternative.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for some heat.
• Seasonal Vegetables: In summer, add fresh zucchini or corn for a lighter, sweeter flavor. In winter, try adding kale or spinach for extra nutrients.
• Cheesy Delight: Stir in shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a creamy, cheesy twist.

One of my favorite twists is adding a splash of heavy cream at the end for a rich, velvety texture. It makes the soup extra indulgent!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This cozy beef & macaroni soup is best served hot, with a slice of crusty bread or a side of crackers for dipping. Pair it with a crisp green salad or a glass of red wine for a complete meal.

If you have leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup (without the pasta) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop over medium heat. Cook fresh pasta and add it to the reheated soup for the best texture.

Pro tip: The flavors of this soup deepen over time, so it’s even better the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This cozy beef & macaroni soup is not only delicious but packed with nutrients:

• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
• Protein: High-quality protein from the lean ground beef
• Fiber: Thanks to the vegetables and pasta
• Vitamin A: Boosted by the carrots
• Low Sodium: Use low-sodium broth for better heart health.

The combination of protein, carbs, and veggies makes this a balanced meal that’s filling and satisfying. If you’re watching your carbs, you can easily swap out the macaroni with cauliflower rice or zoodles.

Conclusion

There you have it—my favorite cozy beef & macaroni soup recipe that’s perfect for those chilly days when you need something warm and comforting. It’s simple, hearty, and customizable to suit your family’s preferences. Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or just need a quick weeknight meal, this soup has got your back.

What I love most about this recipe is how it brings people together. There’s nothing quite like sitting around the table, sharing stories, and savoring a bowl of homemade soup. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel at home, no matter where you are.

Give this recipe a try and let me know what you think! Leave a comment below with your favorite variations or share a picture of your cozy creation—I’d love to hear how it turns out!

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! Just make the soup without the macaroni, store it, and cook the pasta fresh before serving for the best texture.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup without the pasta for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before adding freshly cooked pasta.

What can I use instead of ground beef?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers would be great additions to this soup.

How do I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeño, or even a splash of hot sauce for extra heat.

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