There’s something magical about a warm bowl of hamburger macaroni soup that just wraps you up in comfort. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a hug on a chilly day, perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. The best part? It comes together in about 35 minutes! This hearty soup is not only easy to make, but it also allows for creativity—feel free to toss in your favorite veggies or spices. Trust me, once you make this comforting hamburger macaroni soup, it’ll become a go-to recipe in your kitchen, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. So, let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup macaroni pasta
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Gathering these ingredients is a breeze! Just a few fresh items and pantry staples, and you’re on your way to a delicious pot of hamburger macaroni soup. Remember, feel free to customize with whatever veggies you have on hand! Enjoy the process of bringing it all together.
How to Prepare Hamburger Macaroni Soup
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s jump into making this comforting hamburger macaroni soup! Trust me, it’s super simple, and I’ll walk you through each step so you can feel confident in the kitchen.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
First things first, grab a large pot and place it on the stove over medium heat. You’ll want to start by browning the ground beef. It should take about 5-7 minutes. As it cooks, use a wooden spoon to break it up into smaller pieces. Make sure it’s no longer pink when you’re done—this is key for flavor and safety!
Once the beef is browned, it’s time to add in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. The smell at this point? Absolutely heavenly!
Now, it’s showtime! Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth, followed by the diced carrots and celery. Bring this mixture to a boil—keep an eye on it so it doesn’t overflow, oops! Once it’s boiling, add the macaroni and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Give it a good stir.
Now, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This lets all those flavors meld together beautifully while the macaroni cooks. Make sure to give it a stir every now and then to prevent sticking. When the macaroni is tender, taste it and season with salt and pepper as you like. And there you have it—your hamburger macaroni soup is ready to be served hot!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal in a hurry.
- Beginner-Friendly: The steps are straightforward and simple, making it an ideal recipe for those new to cooking. You can’t mess it up!
- Hearty and Filling: Packed with ground beef, macaroni, and veggies, this soup is a complete meal that leaves you satisfied and warm.
- Comforting Flavors: The combination of savory beef, tender pasta, and fresh vegetables creates a delightful flavor that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
- Customizable: Want to add more veggies or switch up the seasoning? Go for it! This recipe is a blank canvas waiting for your personal touch.
Trust me, once you taste this hearty hamburger macaroni soup, you’ll see why it’s a favorite in my kitchen!
Tips for Success
Making the perfect hamburger macaroni soup is all about keeping it simple and enjoyable! Here are some tips to help you avoid common mistakes and enhance this delightful dish.
Don’t Rush the Browning
Take your time when browning the ground beef. If you rush this step, the meat can end up stewing instead of browning, which affects the flavor. Aim for a nice brown color to bring out the rich taste!
Perfectly Cooked Macaroni
Keep an eye on the macaroni during the simmering stage. Overcooking can lead to mushy pasta, and nobody wants that! Check it a minute or two before the suggested time to see if it’s reached that perfect tender texture.
Season to Your Taste
Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Add them gradually and taste as you go. Sometimes, a tiny pinch can make all the difference in bringing out the flavors. And if you want to elevate the taste, a splash of Worcestershire sauce can add a lovely depth!
Add Extra Veggies
If you want to boost the nutritional value (and the flavor!), feel free to toss in other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even frozen peas. Just chop them up and add them when you throw in the carrots and celery!
Customize the Broth
If you have homemade broth or a well-seasoned beef broth, use that instead of plain broth. It can really elevate the flavor profile of your soup. If you’re using store-bought, look for low-sodium versions to better control the saltiness.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this comforting hamburger macaroni soup. Enjoy the process and don’t hesitate to make it your own!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to comfort food, this hamburger macaroni soup not only satisfies your cravings but also gives you a hearty meal with decent nutritional value. Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving (1 bowl):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands and types of ingredients you use. If you opt for low-fat beef or different types of broth, you might find those numbers change a bit. But rest assured, this soup is a guilt-free way to enjoy a delicious, filling meal!
FAQ Section
Q1. How can I store leftovers?
You can store any leftover hamburger macaroni soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just let it cool to room temperature before sealing it up. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months! Just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Q2. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! This recipe is super flexible. Feel free to toss in any veggies you like—bell peppers, corn, or even spinach can all work beautifully. Just chop them up and add them in with the carrots and celery. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients!
Q3. What can I serve with this soup?
Hamburger macaroni soup is hearty enough to stand on its own, but if you’re looking to round out the meal, I recommend serving it with some crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. A sprinkle of grated cheese on top can also add a nice touch!
Q4. Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes! You can make this soup ahead of time, which is perfect for meal prep. Just cook it, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, you can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until it’s heated through. Just remember that the pasta may continue to absorb liquid, so you might need to add a splash of broth or water when reheating.
Q5. Is this soup kid-friendly?
Definitely! Kids usually love the combination of beef, pasta, and veggies in this soup. Plus, it’s a fun way to introduce them to different flavors and textures. You can even let them help with adding ingredients or stirring—making it a family cooking adventure!
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got your delicious hamburger macaroni soup ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to make your meal even more delightful!
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty bread or a freshly baked baguette is perfect for dipping into the soup. You can even spread a bit of butter or garlic butter for an extra treat!
- Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty vinaigrette pairs beautifully. It adds a refreshing crunch that balances the heartiness of the soup.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: If you’re feeling indulgent, a classic grilled cheese sandwich on the side is always a hit! The gooey cheese and crispy bread make for a comforting combination.
- Cheesy Garlic Biscuits: These fluffy biscuits are a fantastic complement! Just a bit of cheese and garlic makes them irresistible, perfect for soaking up that savory broth.
- Vegetable Platter: For a healthier option, consider a colorful veggie platter with dip. Carrot sticks, celery, and bell pepper slices not only look inviting but also add a crunchy contrast to the soup.
Whichever sides you choose, they’ll enhance your hamburger macaroni soup experience, making it a cozy, satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. Bon appétit!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftover hamburger macaroni soup is easy, and it’s a great way to enjoy this comforting dish later on! First, let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It’s best to store it in the fridge if you plan to eat it within 3 days. Just make sure to seal it up tight to keep it fresh!
If you want to keep it for longer, freezing is a fantastic option. You can portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or even zip-top bags for easy storage. Just remember to leave a little space at the top of the container or bag, as the soup will expand when frozen. It’ll stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight if it’s frozen. For reheating, you can use the stovetop or microwave. If you’re using the stovetop, pour the soup into a pot and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s warmed through. This way, you’ll help retain that delicious flavor and texture.
If microwaving, transfer the soup to a microwave-safe bowl and cover it loosely with a microwave-safe lid or plate to prevent splatters. Heat it in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until it reaches your desired temperature. Just a quick note: if the soup seems a bit thick after reheating, you can stir in a splash of beef broth or water to bring it back to its perfect consistency. Enjoy your comforting bowl once again!
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Hamburger Macaroni Soup: 5 Steps to Cozy Comfort
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A comforting and hearty hamburger macaroni soup that’s easy to make and perfect for beginners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup macaroni pasta
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is soft.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, carrots, and celery.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the macaroni and Italian seasoning.
- Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra flavor, use seasoned beef broth.
- Feel free to add other vegetables you like.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: hamburger macaroni soup, easy soup recipe, comforting soup
