Classic Tomato Macaroni Soup

A warm bowl of tomato macaroni soup is the perfect choice for a cold day. This comforting dish combines seasoned ground beef, vegetables, elbow pasta, and a flavorful tomato broth for a hearty meal the whole family can enjoy.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• ½ cup finely diced red onion
• 6 cups beef stock
• 14 ounces chopped tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomato purée
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• 1½ cups uncooked elbow macaroni
• 1½ cups frozen mixed vegetables
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Shredded cheese, optional
• Crusty bread, for serving

Instructions

1. Brown the beef: Heat a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook until the beef is fully browned and the onion is tender. Drain excess grease if necessary.
2. Prepare the soup base: Pour in the beef stock, chopped tomatoes, sun-dried tomato purée, and Worcestershire sauce. Add the oregano and basil. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
3. Simmer: Lower the heat and allow the soup to simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors can come together.
4. Add the pasta and vegetables: Stir in the elbow macaroni and frozen vegetables. Continue cooking for approximately 8 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
5. Season: Taste the soup and add salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
6. Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Sprinkle with shredded cheese if desired and serve alongside warm, crusty bread.