Name: Macaroni & Hamburger Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs Ground Beef; 1 medium Yellow Onion, diced; 2 medium Carrots, diced; 3 stalks Celery, diced; 1 large Russet Potato, peeled and diced; 2 cans Tomato Soup (Regular-sized cans); 2 cans Diced Tomatoes (Regular-sized cans); 1 carton Beef Stock; 2 cups Water; 3 tablespoons Butter; 1 tablespoon Garlic Powder; 1 tablespoon Onion Powder; 2 tablespoons Dried Parsley; 1 bag Frozen Mixed Veggies (About 2 cups); 2 to 3 cups Cooked Macaroni Noodles; Salt & Pepper (To taste)

Jump to Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of Macaroni & Hamburger Soup. Hearty, savory, and delightfully filling, this classic recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or chilly weekends spent with loved ones. With every spoonful, you’ll find tender macaroni, flavorful ground beef, and a medley of vegetables swimming in a rich tomato broth – talk about a cozy meal! Fun fact: this soup is a timeless staple in many households, credited for its simple prep and unbeatable taste. It’s the kind of dish you can whip up without breaking the bank or spending hours in the kitchen, making it a top choice for families everywhere. If you’ve already fallen in love with my Beef & Barley Stew, you’ll adore the ease and flavor of this recipe, too. Read on and get ready to discover your new favorite crowd-pleaser!

What is Macaroni & Hamburger Soup?

Why is it called Macaroni & Hamburger Soup, you ask? Well, the answer is as straightforward as the recipe itself! Imagine taking macaroni noodles, mixing them with savory ground beef (or “hamburger,” as Grandma would say), and simmering everything in a delicious, tomato-rich broth. Voilà! If you ever wondered, “Can a soup really win hearts?”—let’s just say the way to a man’s (or anyone’s!) heart is truly through the stomach. This soup is playful, satisfying, and as classic as they come. Give it a try and see if it earns a permanent spot at your table — the odds are in your favor!

Why You’ll Love This

The main highlight of Macaroni & Hamburger Soup is its unbeatable homey flavor — each spoonful offers a nostalgic taste of family gatherings and simple weeknight meals. Cooking this at home is incredibly budget-friendly, making it easy to feed a crowd without stretching your wallet. Plus, you control what goes in, ensuring only the freshest vegetables and leanest meat. The real secret? Those topping options! Sprinkle some shredded cheese or fresh parsley on top, and you’ve got restaurant-quality results with just a few extra touches. If you loved my Easy Taco Soup recipe, you’ll find this one just as dependable for a speedy, flavor-packed dinner. Try it for yourself and invite your loved ones to dig in — you won’t regret it!

How to Make

Quick Overview

Macaroni & Hamburger Soup comes together in just about an hour, but you’ll only spend around 20 minutes on prep! This recipe is famously simple: basic chopping, browning meat, and simmering bring rich, hearty flavors with minimal effort. The creamy tomato broth, a healthy dose of veggies, and perfectly cooked macaroni make this soup both satisfying and soul-warming. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is a delicious, quick fix for any night.

Bowl of macaroni and hamburger soup with vegetables and tomato broth

Ingredients

2 lbs ground beef
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 medium-sized carrots, diced
3 stalks of celery, diced
3 tablespoons butter
2 regular-sized cans of tomato soup
2 regular-sized cans of diced tomatoes
1 carton beef stock
2 cups water
Salt & pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
2 tablespoons dried parsley
1 bag (about 2 cups) frozen mixed veggies
1 large russet potato, peeled and diced
2 to 3 cups cooked macaroni noodles

Step-by-Step

Begin by heating a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat, then set the beef aside.
In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften and the onion turns translucent.
Stir in the browned beef, then add the potato, tomato soup, diced tomatoes, beef stock, and water. Give everything a good stir to combine.
Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried parsley. Mix well, then bring the soup to a gentle boil.
Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes, until the carrots and potatoes are tender.
Add the frozen mixed vegetables and continue to simmer for another 10 minutes.
Finally, stir in the cooked macaroni noodles. Allow the soup to heat through for an additional 2–3 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serve hot, ideally topped with shredded cheese or fresh herbs, and enjoy!

What to Serve Macaroni & Hamburger Soup With

Macaroni & Hamburger Soup is a meal in itself, but pairing it with a few sides makes family dinner feel extra special! Serve it with warm, crusty bread or fluffy dinner rolls for dunking into that rich tomato broth. A crisp, simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette lightens things up on the side, balancing flavors beautifully. For something extra comforting, consider a gooey grilled cheese sandwich—perfect for both kids and adults. Round out the meal with a glass of iced tea or a sparkling lemonade for a refreshing complement.

Top Tips for Perfecting

Swap out ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter flavor, or use plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian spin.
Be careful not to overcook the macaroni—add the noodles only at the end, so they stay perfectly tender and don’t soak up too much broth.
If you’re out of some veggies, don’t stress! Use whatever you have on hand: bell peppers, peas, or even zucchini work well.
Taste as you go, especially with seasoning—every brand of beef stock and tomato soup will be a little different.
For extra heartiness, toss in a handful of baby spinach at the end for extra color and nutrition.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Store any leftover Macaroni & Hamburger Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you plan to make it ahead, consider keeping the macaroni separate from the soup to prevent it from getting mushy. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat portions gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking, or use the microwave in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring between each. This soup also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months—simply let it cool completely, pour into freezer-safe containers, and label. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as usual. For the best texture, add fresh cooked macaroni after thawing.

FAQs

How can I make this soup gluten-free?
You can easily swap the regular macaroni for your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure the tomato soup and beef stock are labeled gluten-free.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh chopped carrots, peas, green beans, or corn work wonderfully in this soup—just adjust simmering time as needed to soften them.

Do I have to peel the potato?
Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but if you like the added nutrition and rustic feel, feel free to leave the skin on (just wash thoroughly!).

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the aromatics first, then add everything except the macaroni to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours; add the cooked macaroni during the last 15 minutes.

What’s the best way to add extra flavor?
Try boosting flavor with a splash of Worcestershire sauce, a dash of Italian seasoning, or a handful of shredded sharp cheddar stirred in before serving.

Conclusion

Macaroni & Hamburger Soup is the ultimate cozy, budget-friendly meal that’s big on flavor and guaranteed to please the entire family. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, it’s an ideal recipe for busy nights or whenever you need a comforting bowl of something delicious. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, you’ll appreciate how flexible and forgiving this soup is. Don’t wait — gather your ingredients, invite your loved ones, and enjoy this timeless family favorite tonight. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out other hearty soups and stews on the blog for even more meal inspiration!