Easy Hamburger Macaroni Soup with Vegetables
A warm bowl of hamburger macaroni soup with vegetables is comfort food at its finest. This hearty dish combines tender ground beef, pasta, and fresh vegetables in a flavorful broth that satisfies hunger while nourishing the body. It is the kind of recipe that brings families together around the table, offering both taste and warmth.
What makes this soup so special is its simplicity. It is quick to prepare, uses everyday ingredients, and delivers incredible flavor. Whether you are cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or making a large batch to freeze for later, this soup is a reliable go to meal that never disappoints.
Why You Need This Recipe
You need this recipe because it offers the perfect balance of protein, carbs, and vegetables in one wholesome bowl. It is a budget friendly option that is filling yet healthy, making it ideal for families. Plus, the flavors develop beautifully as the soup simmers, creating a dish that tastes even better the next day.
This soup is also versatile. You can customize it with the vegetables you love, adjust the spices to suit your taste, or even use different types of pasta. It is a recipe that adapts easily to your pantry and keeps everyone satisfied.
Ingredients
Before diving into the recipe, here is a clear breakdown of the ingredients along with their approximate calorie count per serving.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef (lean) | 1 pound | 800 |
| Elbow macaroni | 2 cups cooked | 440 |
| Onion, chopped | 1 medium | 45 |
| Carrots, diced | 2 medium | 50 |
| Celery, diced | 2 stalks | 20 |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves | 15 |
| Diced tomatoes (canned) | 1 can (14.5 oz) | 125 |
| Beef broth | 6 cups | 60 |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | 240 |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | 0 |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp | 5 |
Total Calories (approximate per serving): ~260
How to Prepare
Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Once the beef is cooked, drain excess fat if necessary, then add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
Next, stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows the flavours to blend together beautifully. Add the cooked macaroni to the pot and stir well. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes before serving hot.
Pro Tips
For a lighter version, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. If you want to save time, cook the macaroni separately while the soup simmers and add it just before serving to avoid overcooking. To enhance flavour, sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese on top of each bowl. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for a quick meal later.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
This hamburger macaroni soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls that soak up the rich broth. A fresh green salad on the side balances the meal and adds extra nutrition. For toppings, try shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh herbs like parsley or basil to elevate the flavour.
Conclusion
Easy hamburger macaroni soup with vegetables is a comforting dish that combines rich flavour with wholesome ingredients. It is quick to prepare, adaptable, and perfect for feeding a hungry family. This recipe proves that comfort food can be both nourishing and delicious, making it a must try for your meal rotation.
