Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup

This Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup is a delightful dish that combines hearty ingredients into a satisfying bowl of comfort. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this soup is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. You’ll love how the creamy texture complements the savory beef and tangy tomatoes, making it a go-to recipe for all occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 35 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Family-Friendly: The rich flavors appeal to both kids and adults, ensuring everyone at the table will enjoy it.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use what you have on hand—substituting pasta types or adding extra veggies is simple!
• Comforting Meal: With its creamy texture and heartiness, this soup is perfect for chilly days or when you crave something warm.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less mess, more flavor! Everything cooks in one pot, saving you on cleanup time.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Serving bowls

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: This allows for even cooking of the ground beef and ensures that everything blends well together.
• Whisk: Ideal for smoothly incorporating cream cheese into the soup without lumps.
• Measuring cups & spoons: Ensures accurate quantities for perfect flavor every time.

Ingredients

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

For the Liquid Ingredients

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

For Creaminess and Flavor

• 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. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 2: Season the Mixture

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

Step 3: Add Liquids

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

Step 4: Incorporate Cream Cheese

Using a whisk, mix in the cream cheese until fully blended into the soup. Add half of the freshly chopped basil at this stage for added flavor.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Add the elbow macaroni to the skillet. Stir well and cover with a lid. Let it cook for another 10 minutes or until the pasta is tender.

Step 6: Serve

Spoon your creamy ground beef and macaroni tomato soup into bowls. Garnish with remaining fresh basil for an aromatic finish.

Enjoy your hearty bowl of creamy goodness!

How to Serve Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup

Serving this creamy ground beef and macaroni tomato soup is a simple yet delightful experience. With just a few additions, you can elevate your meal and cater to different tastes.

Add a Side Salad

• A fresh garden salad pairs perfectly with the soup, adding crunch and brightness.

Top with Cheese

• Sprinkle shredded cheese on top for an extra layer of creaminess and flavor.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Offer warm, crusty bread for dipping; it complements the soup’s texture beautifully.

Garnish with Extra Basil

• Adding more fresh basil enhances the aroma and freshness of the dish.

Offer Hot Sauce

• For those who like heat, provide hot sauce on the side to spice things up.

How to Perfect Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup

Achieving the perfect creamy ground beef and macaroni tomato soup is all about technique and ingredient quality. Here are some helpful tips to make your soup shine.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the overall taste of your soup.

• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go; feel free to add more spices or herbs according to your preference.

• Cook Pasta Separately: For a thicker soup, cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving. This prevents it from becoming mushy.

• Choose Lean Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the dish lighter while still satisfying.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup

Pairing side dishes with your creamy ground beef and macaroni tomato soup can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: An easy-to-make classic that adds flavor and substance.

2. Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans bring color and nutrition to your table.

3. Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits topped with cheese offer a delightful contrast to the soup’s creaminess.

4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing texture that balances the rich flavors of the soup.

5. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread complements the savory notes of the soup perfectly.

6. Potato Chips: For a simple crunch, serve crispy potato chips on the side for dipping or snacking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making creamy ground beef and macaroni tomato soup, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes and how to steer clear of them.

• Using Lean Ground Beef Only: While lean ground beef is healthier, it can lack flavor. Consider using a mix of lean and regular ground beef to enhance taste.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Adding salt and spices at the end can lead to bland soup. Incorporate seasonings early on for a more flavorful dish.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Overcooked macaroni can turn mushy. Follow the cooking time closely, checking for al dente texture before serving.
• Not Stirring Enough: If you don’t stir often while cooking, ingredients may stick to the bottom or burn. Stir regularly for even cooking and flavor distribution.
• Ignoring the Cream Cheese Temperature: Cold cream cheese can clump when added. Make sure it’s at room temperature for smooth incorporation into the soup.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store creamy ground beef and macaroni tomato soup in an airtight container.
• It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup

• Freeze in individual portions for easy meals later.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat. Stir frequently until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding creamy ground beef and macaroni tomato soup.

What can I add to Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup?

You can customize this soup by adding vegetables like carrots or bell peppers. Feel free to toss in some cheese for extra creaminess!

Can I use gluten-free pasta in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute regular elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta without sacrificing much flavor or texture.

How do I thicken Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup?

To thicken the soup, consider adding more cream cheese or a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) during cooking.

How long does creamy ground beef and macaroni tomato soup last?

It lasts about 3-4 days in the refrigerator if stored properly. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! This creamy ground beef and macaroni tomato soup tastes even better after sitting overnight as flavors meld together.

Final Thoughts

This creamy ground beef and macaroni tomato soup is not only satisfying but also versatile. Its rich flavors make it a family favorite that you can easily customize with your favorite veggies or spices. Give it a try today!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Creamy Ground Beef and Macaroni Tomato Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that merges the rich flavors of ground beef with creamy pasta and zesty tomatoes. This one-pot meal is not only quick—taking just 35 minutes from start to finish—but it’s also incredibly versatile. With its creamy texture, savory beef, and tangy tomato base, this soup makes for a perfect family dinner or cozy meal on chilly nights. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or cheese, making it a delightful solution for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 onion (diced)
• 3 teaspoons minced garlic
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 26 ounces spaghetti sauce
• 14 ounces diced tomatoes (drained)
• 4 ounces cream cheese (room temperature)
• 1 ½ cups whole wheat elbow macaroni
• Fresh basil (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion until the meat is no longer pink; add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and oregano.
3. Pour in chicken stock, spaghetti sauce, and drained diced tomatoes; simmer for about 10 minutes.
4. Whisk in cream cheese until smooth; stir in half of the chopped basil.
5. Add elbow macaroni to the skillet; cover and cook for another 10 minutes until pasta is tender.
6. Serve hot in bowls, garnished with remaining fresh basil.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg