Homemade Beef, Tomato, and Bow-Tie Macaroni Soup: A Comforting Classic

by

Introduction

Nothing warms the soul quite like a hearty bowl of homemade soup, and this Beef, Tomato, and Bow-Tie Macaroni Soup is the epitome of comfort food. Packed with savory beef, tender pasta, and flavorful tomatoes, this soup is perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or anytime you crave a nourishing meal. The combination of beef broth, fresh garlic, and aromatic herbs creates a rich and satisfying soup that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Overview of the Recipe

This Beef, Tomato, and Bow-Tie Macaroni Soup is a one-pot wonder that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. The soup features lean ground beef, a medley of tomatoes, and bow-tie pasta, all simmered together in a seasoned beef broth. A touch of brown sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a well-rounded flavor that’s both savory and slightly sweet.

Difficulty: Easy
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings
Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving

History and Origin

Soup has always been a staple in home kitchens, often crafted from simple, readily available ingredients. This particular recipe is reminiscent of traditional Italian-American soups, where pasta and tomatoes are frequently used to create hearty, filling dishes. The inclusion of beef and pasta makes this soup substantial enough to serve as a meal on its own, while the use of aromatic herbs ties it back to its Italian roots.

Ingredients

  • 1 large container (or 2 smaller containers) beef broth or beef stock: Forms the flavorful base of the soup.
  • 1 large can petite diced tomatoes: Adds texture and a rich tomato flavor.
  • 1 large onion, diced: Provides a savory, aromatic base.
  • 4 cloves fresh garlic, pressed: Infuses the soup with a deep, rich garlic flavor.
  • 2 ½ pounds lean ground beef: Adds heartiness and protein to the soup.
  • 1 can tomato sauce: Enhances the tomato flavor and adds thickness to the broth.
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes with a hint of sweetness.
  • 1 ½ cups bow-tie pasta (farfalle): The pasta adds substance and a fun shape to the soup.
  • Pepper, garlic salt, garlic powder, oregano, basil, and a few bay leaves (all to taste): Seasonings that enhance the soup’s flavor profile.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

  1. Pour the beef broth or stock into a Dutch oven or a large soup pot.
  2. Add the diced tomatoes, diced onion, and pressed garlic to the pot. These ingredients form the flavorful foundation of the soup.
  3. Season with pepper, garlic salt, garlic powder, oregano, basil, and bay leaves. The herbs and spices should be added to taste, allowing you to adjust the flavors as the soup cooks.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Simmering allows the onions to soften and the flavors to meld together beautifully. Stir occasionally and taste the broth to adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

  1. In a separate skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it is browned and fully cooked. Break the meat into small crumbles as it cooks to ensure even browning.
  2. Drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
  3. Add the cooked beef to the simmering broth in the Dutch oven. This allows the flavors of the beef to infuse into the soup.

Step 3: Enhance the Flavor

  1. Stir in the can of tomato sauce to the soup. This will not only intensify the tomato flavor but also slightly thicken the broth, giving the soup a heartier consistency.
  2. Add the brown sugar to the soup. The brown sugar helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, creating a more rounded and pleasant flavor profile. Taste the soup and adjust the sweetness as needed.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

  1. Let the soup simmer on low heat for about 40 minutes. This slow cooking process allows all the ingredients to blend together, deepening the flavor and tenderizing the beef.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

  1. About 10-12 minutes before serving, add the bow-tie pasta (farfalle) directly to the soup. Stir well to ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the broth.
  2. Cook the pasta until it is al dente, meaning it should be tender but still firm to the bite. Overcooking the pasta can cause it to become mushy, so keep an eye on it as it cooks.

Step 6: Serve the Soup

  1. Remove the bay leaves from the soup before serving, as they are not meant to be eaten.
  2. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately. The soup can be enjoyed on its own or with a side of crusty bread for dipping.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

This Beef, Tomato, and Bow-Tie Macaroni Soup is a complete meal in itself, but here are some suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

  • Serve with crusty bread: A slice of garlic bread or a soft dinner roll is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
  • Add a side salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup.
  • Top with grated Parmesan: A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a salty, umami flavor that pairs well with the beef and tomatoes.
  • Drizzle with olive oil: For added richness, a drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil on top of each bowl can enhance the flavors.

Variations of the Recipe

This soup is highly adaptable, allowing you to make it your own:

  • Vegetarian Version: Substitute the beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
  • Spicy Beef Macaroni Soup: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for a spicy kick.
  • Cheesy Macaroni Soup: Stir in a handful of shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) just before serving to create a creamy, cheesy soup.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients, like the broth and tomato sauce, are gluten-free.

Health Benefits Notes

This soup can be made healthier with a few adjustments:

  • Use lean ground beef: Opting for lean or extra-lean ground beef reduces the fat content while still providing a good source of protein.
  • Increase vegetables: Add more diced vegetables such as carrots, celery, or spinach to increase the nutrient content and add more fiber.
  • Whole grain pasta: Substitute regular bow-tie pasta with whole grain or high-protein pasta for added fiber and nutrients.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, this soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a little extra broth or water if needed.

Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, you can freeze the soup without the pasta for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, reheat it on the stove, and add freshly cooked pasta.

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! You can use any small pasta shape like elbow macaroni, rotini, or penne. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose.

Q: What can I use instead of brown sugar?
A: If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use a small amount of honey, maple syrup, or even white sugar. The key is to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Conclusion

Homemade Beef, Tomato, and Bow-Tie Macaroni Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of year. With its rich broth, tender beef, and perfectly cooked pasta, this soup is sure to satisfy your cravings and warm you up from the inside out. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing meals ahead of time, this soup is a versatile and delicious option that everyone will love. Try this recipe today and enjoy the comforting flavors of homemade soup at their best!

Leave a Comment