Creamy Beef and Macaroni Soup Recipe

Introduction

This Creamy Beef & Mac Soup is a simple and delicious one-pot meal that combines the comforting flavors of ground beef and pasta in a rich, creamy broth. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and a great way to satisfy the whole family. For another easy soup idea, try this Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup Recipe.

Ingredients

This comforting soup combines tender ground beef and pasta in a rich, creamy tomato broth that’s both hearty and satisfying.

• 1 1/2 cups elbow macaroni
• 1 tablespoon oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 24 oz marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	25 minutes
Total Time	40 minutes

Context: This Creamy Beef & Mac Soup comes together about 20% faster than similar recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the beef is fully browned and no pink remains.

For the best flavor, avoid overcrowding the pot. If necessary, brown the beef in batches to ensure proper browning and caramelization.

Step 2 — Sauté the Aromatics

Add 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves to the pot with the beef. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to your Creamy Beef & Mac Soup.

Step 3 — Add Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in 4 cups of beef broth and 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir to combine all ingredients, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer before proceeding to the next step.

Step 4 — Cook the Pasta

Add 1 cup of elbow macaroni to the simmering soup. Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.

Test the pasta a minute before the recommended cooking time. It should be tender but still firm to the bite, as it will continue cooking slightly in the hot soup.

Step 5 — Create the Creamy Base

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of heavy cream and 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour until smooth. This slurry will thicken your soup without creating lumps.

Temper the cream mixture by slowly adding a ladle of hot soup broth while whisking constantly. This prevents curdling when you add it to the pot.

Step 6 — Combine and Thicken

Slowly pour the tempered cream mixture into the soup, stirring constantly. Continue cooking for 3–5 minutes until the soup thickens slightly and becomes creamy.

The soup is ready when it coats the back of a spoon. Avoid boiling after adding the cream to maintain the velvety texture of your Creamy Beef & Mac Soup.

Step 7 — Season and Serve

Remove the pot from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning, plus salt and black pepper to taste. Let the soup rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. The finished soup should be richly flavored with a perfect balance of creamy texture, beefy richness, and tender pasta.

Nutritional Information

Calories	420
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	35g
Fat	18g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	890mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Ground Turkey — Lighter protein with a mild flavor that absorbs the creamy sauce well.
• Ground Chicken — A lean alternative that keeps the soup hearty and satisfying.
• Lentils — Plant-based protein swap that adds earthy flavor and fiber.
• Cauliflower Florets — Low-carb replacement for macaroni, adding texture without the carbs.
• Chickpea Pasta — Gluten-free option with extra protein and a nutty taste.
• Coconut Milk — Rich, dairy-free base that creates a velvety, slightly sweet creaminess.
• Low-Sodium Broth — Reduces salt while letting the beef and seasoning flavors shine.
• Zucchini Noodles — Fresh, low-carb alternative that lightens up the Creamy Beef & Mac Soup.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp side salad or garlic bread for a balanced meal.
• Serve in warm bowls to keep your Creamy Beef & Mac Soup hot longer.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or shredded Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
• Perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or casual gatherings.
• Accompany with a crusty baguette or buttery dinner rolls for dipping.
• Ideal for meal prep—store in airtight containers for easy lunches.

This Creamy Beef & Mac Soup is a comforting, versatile dish that suits many occasions and tastes even better with thoughtful presentation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Overcooking the pasta until it becomes mushy in the soup. Fix: Cook the macaroni separately and add it just before serving to maintain perfect texture.
• Mistake: Using lean ground beef that results in a dry, less flavorful soup. Fix: Opt for 80/20 ground beef to render fat that builds a richer, more savory broth.
• Mistake: Adding dairy like cream or milk too early, causing it to curdle. Fix: Stir in cream off the heat after the soup has slightly cooled to ensure a smooth, creamy consistency.
• Mistake: Underseasoning the beef during the initial browning step. Fix: Generously season the beef with salt and pepper as it cooks to build a deep flavor foundation.
• Mistake: Skipping the step to deglaze the pot after browning the beef. Fix: Pour a splash of broth or water into the hot pot to lift the flavorful browned bits.
• Mistake: Letting the soup boil vigorously after adding the dairy, which can break the emulsion. Fix: Keep the finished soup at a gentle simmer or warm setting to preserve its creamy texture.
• Mistake: Not balancing the starch from the pasta, which can make the soup too thick. Fix: Reserve some pasta cooking water to thin the soup to your desired consistency if needed.
• Mistake: Using pre-shredded cheese that contains anti-caking agents, leading to a grainy sauce. Fix: Shred cheese from a block yourself for a smoother, more velvety melt.
• Mistake: Overcrowding the pot when browning the beef, which steams instead of sears. Fix: Brown the beef in batches to achieve a proper caramelized crust for maximum flavor.
• Mistake: Serving the Creamy Beef & Mac Soup immediately without letting flavors meld. Fix: Allow the soup to rest for 10–15 minutes off heat so the ingredients harmonize beautifully.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Cool your Creamy Beef & Mac Soup completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until the soup reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Always ensure your Creamy Beef & Mac Soup is stored properly to maintain its delicious flavor and food safety.

Conclusion

This Creamy Beef & Mac Soup is the ultimate comfort meal—simple, hearty, and ready in no time. We hope you love it as much as we do! Try the recipe, share your thoughts in the comments, and subscribe for more delicious ideas like our Crockpot Cheesy Beef and Noodles Recipe.

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FAQs

Can I make this Creamy Beef & Mac Soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this Creamy Beef & Mac Soup in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or milk if the soup has thickened too much.

What can I use instead of heavy cream for a lighter version?

For a lighter Creamy Beef & Mac Soup, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream. The soup will be slightly less rich but still deliciously creamy. Avoid boiling the soup after adding milk to prevent curdling.

Can I freeze the Creamy Beef & Mac Soup?

We do not recommend freezing this soup. The dairy and pasta can separate and become grainy upon thawing, which affects the creamy texture. For best results, enjoy this Creamy Beef & Mac Soup fresh or refrigerated for a few days.