Hamburger Soup with Macaroni (Goulash Soup)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hamburger Soup with Macaroni, often referred to as Goulash Soup, is a hearty and comforting one-pot meal that combines ground beef, tender macaroni, and a rich tomato-based broth filled with vegetables. Perfect for chilly nights, this soup is filling, flavorful, and easy to prepare, making it a family favorite for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ground beefoniongarliccarrotscelerydiced tomatoes (canned)tomato saucebeef brothmacaroni pastabell pepperbay leafItalian seasoningsalt and pepperolive oil

directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

Stir in chopped onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are softened.

Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, bay leaf, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes.

Stir in the macaroni and cook for another 10-12 minutes until pasta is tender.

Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or shredded cheese.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 6-8 people.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 30-35 minutesTotal time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.

Add corn, green beans, or zucchini for extra veggies.

Spice it up with red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.

Swap macaroni with small shells or ditalini pasta.

Top with sour cream or shredded cheddar for added richness.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until hot.Add a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens too much upon standing.Freeze for up to 2 months, but note that the pasta may soften more when reheated.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well and can be made a day in advance for even better flavor.

Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely, just adjust cooking time based on the pasta used.

How do I prevent the macaroni from getting mushy?

Cook the macaroni separately and add it just before serving if storing for later.

Can I add beans?

Yes, kidney or white beans are a great addition for extra protein and texture.

Is this soup spicy?

No, it’s mild and kid-friendly, but you can adjust the spice level to your taste.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, but you’ll need to simmer a bit longer to develop the same depth of flavor.

Is this the same as American goulash?

It’s very similar but served as a soup rather than a thicker pasta dish.

What type of beef is best?

Lean ground beef (85-90%) works best to avoid excess grease.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of beef broth?

Yes, though the flavor will be lighter and less rich.

Is it freezer-friendly?

Yes, though pasta texture may change slightly upon thawing and reheating.

Conclusion

Hamburger Soup with Macaroni is a wholesome and satisfying dish that’s as comforting as it is convenient. With its savory broth, tender pasta, and hearty beef, it’s the perfect all-in-one meal to warm you up and fill you up. Whether you call it Goulash Soup or simply a delicious bowl of comfort, it’s bound to become a staple in your recipe collection.

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