Step 2: Brown the Beef
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Brown them on all sides until they develop a rich color. This step is key to adding deep flavor to your soup. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions are translucent and the vegetables begin to soften. The flavors released here form the base of your soup.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Spices
Stir in the diced tomatoes, along with thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes to let the tomatoes break down slightly and the spices bloom. This adds a rich aroma to the soup.
Step 5: Simmer the Beef
Return the browned beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45–50 minutes, or until the beef is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to combine the flavors evenly.
Step 6: Cook the Macaroni
In the last 10–12 minutes of cooking, add the elbow macaroni and chopped green beans (if using). Stir well and continue simmering until the pasta is tender but still firm. Be careful not to overcook the macaroni, as it can become mushy in the soup.
Step 7: Adjust Seasoning and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove from heat and sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
Serve the soup hot with crusty bread or a side salad. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a lunch that warms you from the inside out.
Tips for the Perfect Beef Macaroni Soup
- Use quality beef: Stew meat or chuck works best because it becomes tender and flavorful when simmered.
- Don’t skip browning the beef: It adds depth and richness to the broth.
- Customize vegetables: Feel free to add peas, corn, or potatoes to make the soup even heartier.
- Simmer gently: Low heat keeps the beef tender and prevents the broth from becoming cloudy.
- Pasta timing: Always add the pasta near the end to maintain its texture.
Conclusion
Beef macaroni soup is more than just a meal—it’s a comforting bowl of warmth, rich flavors, and wholesome ingredients. With tender beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and hearty vegetables in a savory broth, it’s a dish that satisfies both body and soul. By following this step-by-step method, you can easily make a restaurant-quality soup right in your own kitchen.
If you want, I can also create a shortcut version for weeknight cooking that only takes 30 minutes without losing flavor. Do you want me to do that?
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