Beef Macaroni Chili Soup is the perfect combination of a classic chili and a comforting pasta soup. This hearty dish is packed with tender ground beef, soft macaroni, and a flavorful blend of spices, all simmered together to create a warm and satisfying bowl. It’s a great option for a cozy family dinner or to warm up on a chilly day. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for serving)
- Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
- Heat Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Cook Beef: Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the chopped onion, minced garlic, and green bell pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
Step 2: Add the Liquid and Seasonings
- Add Tomatoes and Beans: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the drained kidney beans.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the beef broth and water. Stir in the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Cook the Macaroni
- Add Macaroni: Stir in the elbow macaroni and continue to simmer, uncovered, for an additional 8-10 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded cheddar cheese and fresh parsley or green onions, if desired. Enjoy warm.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Macaroni: If you plan to have leftovers, you may want to cook the macaroni separately and add it to individual servings to avoid it becoming too soft when reheated.
- Browning the Beef: Be sure to brown the beef thoroughly for extra flavor. Draining excess fat will keep the soup from becoming too greasy.
- Spice Level: Adjust the chili powder and paprika to your preference if you like more or less heat.
Variations
- Turkey Chili: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter version.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the ground beef and add extra beans or vegetables, like corn or zucchini, to make a vegetarian chili soup.
- Cheesy Chili Soup: Stir in 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese directly into the soup for an extra cheesy flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious broth.
- Side Salad: Pair with a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Toppings: Offer toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, diced avocado, or crushed tortilla chips for added flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead of time. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little extra broth if needed to thin it out.
Can I Freeze Beef Macaroni Chili Soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What Other Pasta Can I Use?
You can use any small pasta shape like ditalini, small shells, or rotini if you don’t have elbow macaroni.
Beef Macaroni Chili Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the best of chili and pasta soup. With its rich flavors, tender macaroni, and warming spices, this soup is perfect for a cozy family dinner or any time you need a bowl of comfort. Gather your ingredients, let it simmer, and enjoy a bowl of this delicious soup with your loved ones!
Happy Cooking!
