Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup

This creamy ground beef and macaroni tomato soup is a delightful dish that checks all the boxes for comfort food. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this recipe combines savory ground beef with tender macaroni in a rich tomato base. It’s not just easy to prepare—it’s also a family favorite that brings everyone to the table. The combination of flavors and textures makes this soup truly stand out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
• Rich Flavor: The blend of spices and creamy cheese creates a deliciously comforting bowl of soup.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it alone or pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from the ground beef and fiber from the whole wheat pasta, it’s a wholesome choice.
• Family-Friendly: The familiar flavors appeal to both kids and adults, ensuring no one leaves the table hungry.

Tools and Preparation

To make this creamy ground beef and macaroni tomato soup, you’ll need some essential tools to simplify your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows you to cook the beef and vegetables evenly without overcrowding.
• Whisk: This tool helps incorporate the cream cheese smoothly into the soup, ensuring a creamy texture without lumps.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your dish.

Ingredients

Here are all the ingredients you’ll need to make this creamy ground beef and macaroni tomato soup:

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 onion (diced)
• 3 teaspoons minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon oregano

Liquids and Sauces

• 4 cups chicken stock
• 26 ounces spaghetti sauce
• 14 ounces diced tomatoes (drained)

Creamy Elements

• 4 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
• ¼ cup fresh basil (roughly chopped, divided)

Pasta

• 1 ½ cups whole wheat elbow macaroni (or regular elbow macaroni)

How to Make Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup

Step 1: Cook the Beef and Onion

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the beef is no longer pink. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Season the Mixture

Add salt, black pepper, and oregano to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the seasonings with the meat mixture.

Step 3: Add Liquids

Pour in the chicken stock, spaghetti sauce, and drained diced tomatoes. Bring this mixture to a simmer on medium heat. Let it cook for about 10 minutes so that all flavors meld together.

Step 4: Incorporate Cream Cheese

Whisk in the cream cheese until it is fully melted and incorporated into the soup. Then add half of the fresh basil for an added burst of flavor.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Add the elbow macaroni into the pot, stir gently, then cover with a lid. Allow it to cook for another 10 minutes or until the pasta is tender.

Step 6: Serve

Spoon generous portions into bowls and garnish with remaining fresh basil before serving hot.

Enjoy your delicious homemade creamy ground beef and macaroni tomato soup!

How to Serve Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup

This creamy ground beef and macaroni tomato soup is not only delightful but also versatile in how you can serve it. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette – Serve slices of warm baguette for dipping.
• Garlic Bread – Pair with garlic bread for a flavorful complement.

Topped with Cheese

• Shredded Cheddar – Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top for added richness.
• Parmesan – A dash of grated Parmesan elevates the flavors beautifully.

Accompanied by Salads

• Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and freshness.
• Mixed Green Salad – Lighten up the meal with a simple mixed green salad drizzled with vinaigrette.

How to Perfect Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup

To achieve the best results with your creamy ground beef and macaroni tomato soup, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Lean Meat – Opt for lean ground beef to keep the soup lighter without sacrificing flavor.
• Use Fresh Herbs – Fresh basil or parsley sprinkled on top brightens up the dish.
• Adjust Consistency – If the soup is too thick, add a bit more chicken stock until desired consistency is reached.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta – Ensure that you stir in the pasta at the right time to prevent it from becoming mushy.
• Experiment with Spices – Feel free to add additional spices like thyme or crushed red pepper for extra flavor.
• Blend for Smoothness – For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding pasta.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup

Pairing side dishes with your creamy ground beef and macaroni tomato soup can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables – Colorful roasted vegetables seasoned with garlic make a perfect side.
2. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread provides a delightful contrast to the savory soup.
3. Stuffed Peppers – Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice and vegetables complement the hearty soup well.
4. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges add crunch and pairs wonderfully with the creaminess of the soup.
5. Coleslaw – A fresh coleslaw adds a crunchy texture that balances out the meal nicely.
6. Caprese Skewers – Skewers of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offer brightness and freshness alongside your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks make simple errors when preparing Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Overcooking the beef – It’s important to cook the beef just until it’s no longer pink. Overcooked beef can become tough. Monitor it closely while cooking.
• Ignoring seasoning – Proper seasoning is key. Don’t skip the salt, pepper, or oregano, as they enhance the soup’s flavor. Taste and adjust as needed during cooking.
• Skipping the simmer – Allowing the soup to simmer for 10 minutes helps meld the flavors together. Skipping this step can result in a bland taste.
• Not whisking in cream cheese properly – Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing. If it’s cold, it may clump. Whisk thoroughly until smooth.
• Using uncooked pasta – Cook the macaroni directly in the soup for best results. If added uncooked, you may end up with unevenly cooked pasta.
• Not garnishing – A sprinkle of fresh basil adds a burst of flavor and color. Don’t skip this final touch for an appealing presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative that will work well in this recipe.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

What if I don’t have spaghetti sauce?

You can use crushed tomatoes or tomato puree as a substitute, adding some Italian herbs to mimic spaghetti sauce flavors.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Carrots, bell peppers, or spinach can be added for extra nutrition and flavor.

How do I store leftover soup?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup is not only comforting but also versatile. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or additional vegetables for a unique twist. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need something hearty and satisfying!