Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup

This Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to cozy nights in. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it quickly becomes a favorite among both kids and adults. The combination of ground beef, macaroni, and tomatoes creates a comforting meal that warms the soul while being simple to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This soup comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight meals.
• Family-Friendly: Packed with flavor and nutrients, it’s a hit with both children and adults.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.
• Creamy Goodness: The addition of cream cheese gives it a rich, velvety texture that elevates the entire dish.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup required as everything is cooked in one skillet.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having everything ready will help you enjoy the process of making this delicious soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A large skillet provides enough space for cooking the ground beef and combining all ingredients without overcrowding.
• Measuring Cups: Ensures accurate ingredient proportions, which is key to achieving the perfect flavor balance.
• Wooden Spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your skillet’s surface while mixing ingredients thoroughly.

Ingredients

This creamy ground beef and macaroni tomato soup is easy-to-make, family favorite recipe that comes together quickly.

For the Soup Base:

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

For the Sauce:

• 26 ounces spaghetti sauce
• 14 ounces diced tomatoes (drained)

For Creaminess:

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

For the 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. Add in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 2: Season

Add salt, black pepper, and oregano to the beef mixture. Stir well to combine all the flavors.

Step 3: Add Liquids

Pour in chicken stock, spaghetti sauce, and drained diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Incorporate Cream Cheese

Whisk in cream cheese until fully blended into the soup. Stir in half of the chopped fresh basil.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

Pour in elbow macaroni. Stir well, cover with a lid, and let it cook for another 10 minutes or until pasta is tender.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish each serving with leftover basil for added freshness.

Now you’re ready to enjoy a bowl of delicious Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup, perfect for any day of the week!

How to Serve Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup

This creamy ground beef and macaroni tomato soup is a comforting dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or make it a more elaborate meal, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Add extra chopped basil on top for a fresh flavor boost.
• Parsley: Chopped parsley can add a vibrant color and mild taste.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up the delicious soup.
• Baguette Slices: Crispy baguette slices provide a nice crunch that complements the creamy texture of the soup.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad brings a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
• Garden Salad: Tossed greens with a light vinaigrette can balance the flavors beautifully.

Cheese Toppings

• Shredded Cheddar: Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan over the soup for a nutty finish.

How to Perfect Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup

Making this creamy ground beef and macaroni tomato soup is simple, but there are ways to elevate it even further. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Lean Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the dish healthier while maintaining flavor.
• Simmer Longer: Letting the soup simmer longer allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust seasonings according to your preference for salt, pepper, and herbs.
• Cream Cheese Alternatives: If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for creaminess without excess fat.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup

Complementing your creamy ground beef and macaroni tomato soup with tasty sides can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent side dish ideas:

1. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter are perfect for dipping.
2. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins add a delightful contrast to savory flavors.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds nutrition and color.
4. Potato Chips: Crunchy potato chips can provide an enjoyable textural contrast.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Baked stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa make for a hearty side.
6. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing counterpoint to the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup experience. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the beef properly can lead to bland soup. Always add salt, pepper, and herbs during cooking for maximum flavor.
• Not using enough liquid: If you don’t add enough chicken stock, your soup may become too thick. Ensure you follow the recipe’s liquid measurements for a creamy consistency.
• Overcooking the pasta: Adding macaroni too early can result in mushy pasta. Only cook it until tender by adding it towards the end of the simmering process.
• Neglecting fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds brightness to your soup. Don’t skip this step; add it at the right time for the best flavor.
• Forgetting to stir occasionally: Leaving the soup unattended might cause it to stick or burn. Stir every few minutes while it simmers to maintain even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls, stirring halfway through, until hot, usually about 2-3 minutes on high.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a pot over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup recipe.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative that offers a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.

How can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, replace ground beef with lentils or beans and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

What can I serve with Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup?

Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

How long does this soup take to prepare?

The total time required is around 35 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different vegetables or pasta options according to your preferences. We encourage you to try this comforting recipe; it’s sure to become a family favorite!