Beef Macaroni Soup Recipe: Hearty Hamburger Soup

This Beef Macaroni Soup, also known as Hearty Hamburger Soup, is the kind of comforting, cozy dish I turn to when the weather gets chilly or I need a quick, filling meal. It’s loaded with ground beef, tender macaroni, and a rich tomato broth that brings everything together. Whether I’m making it for my family or meal-prepping for the week, this soup always delivers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe balances simple ingredients with big, satisfying flavors. It’s budget-friendly, easy to throw together in one pot, and totally customizable. Plus, it tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers. The tender pasta, hearty beef, and vegetables in a savory broth make every spoonful incredibly comforting.

Ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 pound ground beef

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup carrots, diced

• 2 celery stalks, diced

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, with juice

• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce

• 4 cups beef broth

• 1 cup elbow macaroni, uncooked

• 1 cup frozen peas or corn (optional)

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Directions

1. I start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

2. I add the ground beef and cook it until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. I then drain the excess fat.

3. I stir in the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. I cook them for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften.

4. I season the mixture with basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.

5. Next, I add the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, and beef broth. I bring the mixture to a boil.

6. Once boiling, I reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

7. I stir in the uncooked elbow macaroni and cook for another 10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.

8. If I’m using peas or corn, I stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking.

9. I taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, then serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings and takes approximately 35–40 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and hearty meal, perfect for busy weeknights.

Variations

Sometimes I switch things up depending on what I have in my kitchen. Instead of ground beef, I’ve used ground turkey or chicken. For a spicy version, I add a pinch of red pepper flakes. I also like swapping elbow macaroni with small shells or ditalini for a fun twist. And if I want extra veggies, I’ll throw in chopped spinach or zucchini near the end of cooking.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the pasta has absorbed too much liquid. This soup also freezes well—just leave out the pasta and add it fresh when reheating.

FAQs

How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?

I cook the pasta just until al dente and avoid overcooking it. If I’m planning to store or freeze the soup, I sometimes cook the pasta separately and add it in when serving.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, I’ve used fresh tomatoes before. I just chop them finely and simmer a bit longer to let them break down and blend into the soup.

Is this soup gluten-free?

As-is, it’s not. But I make it gluten-free by using certified gluten-free pasta and double-checking the labels on my broth and other ingredients.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, I brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then add everything (except the pasta) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours. I stir in the pasta during the last 20–30 minutes.

What can I serve with this soup?

I usually serve it with crusty bread, a simple green salad, or even grilled cheese sandwiches for an extra hearty meal.

Conclusion

This Beef Macaroni Soup is everything I want in a comforting bowl—rich, hearty, and full of flavor. It’s a go-to in my kitchen when I want something easy that satisfies everyone. Whether I make it for a family dinner or freeze it for later, it never disappoints.