Name: Homemade Ground Beef Pasta Soup for Cozy Weeknight Dinners
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground Beef (Lean beef (80/20 or 85/15) for rich flavor.); 1 cup Chopped Onion (Shallots can be substituted.); 4 cups Beef Broth (Use low-sodium for a healthier meal.); 14.5 oz Diced Tomatoes (Canned adds acidity and body.); 2 tbsp Tomato Paste (Thickens and intensifies flavor.); 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce (For umami; use soy sauce for gluten-free.); 1 tbsp Dried Oregano (Opt for fresh herbs if available.); 1 tbsp Dried Basil (Opt for fresh herbs if available.); 1 tbsp Garlic Powder (Saves time without fresh garlic.); 1 Bay Leaf (Remove before serving.); 1 cup Macaroni (Can swap with another small pasta.); 2 cups Frozen Mixed Vegetables (Fresh vegetables can be substituted.)

As the sun dips below the horizon and the evening chill creeps in, I find myself craving something warm and nourishing. Enter my Homemade Ground Beef Pasta Soup, a blissful blend of hearty flavors that comes together in just 30 minutes! This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you’re longing for comfort food without the fuss. With simple ingredients and no complicated techniques, you can prepare a satisfying dish that pleases the whole family—even the pickiest eaters among us. Not only is this soup a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also a great way to sneak in some veggies while enjoying a rich, beefy broth. So, are you ready to turn your kitchen into a cozy haven with this delightful soup? Let’s dive in!

Why is this soup a game changer?

Comforting Warmth: This Homemade Ground Beef Pasta Soup delivers nostalgia in a bowl—ideal for chilly evenings.

Quick Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can indulge in a complete meal, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.

Versatile Ingredients: With simple staples like ground beef and mixed vegetables, this soup adapts easily to what you have on hand. Feel free to add some nutritional boosts, like spinach from the garden!

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Its hearty, savory broth will make even the pickiest eaters ask for seconds, making it a go-to recipe for family dinners.

Time-Saving Tips: Cook your pasta separately for leftovers to maintain that delightful texture, allowing you to enjoy this dish all week long! Pair it with warm garlic bread for an extra touch of comfort.

Homemade Ground Beef Pasta Soup Ingredients

For the Soup Base

Ground Beef – Lean beef (80/20 or 85/15) gives a rich and savory flavor that is essential for your homemade ground beef pasta soup.
Chopped Onion – Adds natural sweetness and aroma; shallots can be substituted for a milder flavor.
Beef Broth – The key liquid that forms the soup’s depth; use low-sodium versions for a healthier meal.
Diced Tomatoes – These canned gems add acidity and body to the broth, creating a luscious texture.
Tomato Paste – Thickens and intensifies the flavors; if fresh tomatoes are available, use double the amount as a substitute.
Worcestershire Sauce – Packs an umami punch; soy sauce or tamari works well for gluten-free options.
Dried Oregano & Dried Basil – These seasoning staples brighten the soup; opt for fresh herbs if you have them on hand.
Garlic Powder – Imparts delicious savory notes without the hassle of fresh garlic.
Bay Leaf – Infuses the broth with aromatic flavors; be sure to remove it before serving.

For the Pasta

Macaroni – Brings heartiness and texture to the soup; feel free to swap with your favorite small pasta shape.

For the Veggie Boost

Frozen Mixed Vegetables – Convenient and colorful, these pack nutrition and flavor into your soup; fresh veggies can be substituted as desired.

Now you’re all set to create a comforting soup that’ll warm your heart and soul!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Homemade Ground Beef Pasta Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onions
Start by heating a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, breaking the meat apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. This sizzling mix will fill your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma, setting the stage for your Homemade Ground Beef Pasta Soup.

Step 2: Drain the Fat
Once the beef is nicely browned, carefully drain any excess fat from the pot, leaving a thin coating for added flavor. This step is crucial to prevent your soup from becoming greasy, so take your time. With the fat drained, you can move on to building the delicious soup base that completes this hearty dish.

Step 3: Stir in the Tomato Paste
Return the pot to the heat and stir in the tomato paste. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the paste to deepen in color and flavor, which enhances the richness of your Homemade Ground Beef Pasta Soup. The paste should start bubbling gently, creating a flavorful foundation for the broth.

Step 4: Add the Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the beef broth, followed by the diced tomatoes and Worcestershire sauce, stirring well to combine. Then sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, and add the bay leaf. Bring this hearty mixture to a boil, letting the flavors meld beautifully for about 5 minutes, transforming the ingredients into a savory soup base.

Step 5: Simmer and Meld Flavors
After reaching a boil, reduce the heat and let your soup simmer for 5 minutes. This gentle bubbling allows the flavors to develop, making each spoonful of your Homemade Ground Beef Pasta Soup rich and satisfying. You’ll see the broth become aromatic and flavorful during this step, enticing everyone nearby.

Step 6: Cook the Pasta and Vegetables
Add the macaroni and frozen mixed vegetables to the pot, stirring to incorporate. Increase the heat to bring it back to a boil, then reduce to simmer uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender but not mushy. This step brings everything together, creating a comforting and hearty soup with vibrant colors.

Step 7: Final Touches and Serve
Once the pasta is cooked, carefully remove the bay leaf from the pot. Taste your homemade ground beef pasta soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. With the soup ready, ladle it into bowls and serve hot, ensuring everyone enjoys this delicious and comforting meal.

Expert Tips for Homemade Ground Beef Pasta Soup

Preheat Your Pot: Make sure your pot is hot before adding the ground beef to achieve a nice browning. This enhances the soup’s rich flavors.
Fat Control: Always drain excess fat after browning the beef to avoid a greasy soup. A little fat adds flavor, but too much can overwhelm the dish.
Pasta Timing: Add macaroni only when the broth is bubbling. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy, ensuring perfect texture in your homemade ground beef pasta soup.
Season to Taste: Always wait to adjust seasoning until the end. The broth and Worcestershire sauce can be quite flavorful, so taste before adding more salt or pepper.
Storage Smarts: For leftovers, consider cooking pasta separately to maintain texture. Add it to the soup when reheating for a delightful taste experience.

Homemade Ground Beef Pasta Soup Variations

Feel free to get creative with this soup and make it your own with these delicious ideas!

Leafy Greens: Toss in fresh spinach or kale at the end for a pop of color and nutrition. They wilt quickly and will elevate the health factor of your soup.
Pasta Swap: Try using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier twist. Or switch to your favorite pasta shape like shells or fusilli for a fun texture!
Different Protein: Replace ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version that still retains flavor. The broth will still be rich and satisfying but offer a twist on the classic.
Roasted Garlic Boost: For a deeper flavor, roast a few cloves of garlic and add them to the soup. This will infuse a warm, mellow garlic note that enriches every spoonful.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for heat. It will beautifully enhance the savory elements of the broth and warm you from the inside out.
Herb Variation: If you have fresh herbs on hand, use chopped parsley, thyme, or rosemary instead of dried. Fresh herbs will enhance the flavor and bring an aromatic freshness to your soup.
Bean Addition: For extra protein and fiber, consider adding a can of drained beans like kidney or black beans. They’ll complement the hearty broth beautifully.
Creamy Twist: Stir in a dollop of cream or a splash of milk for a richer, creamier version. This will create a comforting, chowder-like consistency that’s perfect for cozy evenings.

Embrace flexibility with this delightful recipe! For more comforting dishes, consider exploring my preparation for French Onion Beef or the Savory Cabbage Beef Bake.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Homemade Ground Beef Pasta Soup ahead of time is a fantastic way to save valuable minutes on busy weeknights! You can brown the ground beef and sauté the onions up to 24 hours in advance; simply let the mixture cool and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can chop and portion the vegetables, keeping them fresh in the same container. When you’re ready to enjoy your soup, just reheat the beef mixture, add the broth, and stir in the remaining ingredients. Finish cooking as instructed, and in no time, you’ll have a warm, hearty meal that feels just as delicious as if you made it all at once!

What to Serve with Homemade Ground Beef Pasta Soup

As the comforting warmth of the soup fills your home, it’s the perfect time to consider delicious accompaniments that will transform your meal into something truly special.

Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of warm garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth, adding a delightful crunch to each bite.
Simple Side Salad: A fresh side salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette offers a bright contrast to the hearty soup, adding a refreshing element to your meal.
Dinner Rolls: Soft, fluffy dinner rolls are perfect for sopping up the savory broth, creating an indulgent experience with the comforting soup.
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top adds a savory finish, enhancing the depth of flavor in the soup.
Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized roasted veggies bring an earthy touch, complementing the soup’s heartiness while providing a nice textural contrast.
Sweet Cornbread: This subtly sweet accompaniment pairs well with the salty, beefy soup and balances flavors beautifully for a well-rounded meal.
Red Wine: A glass of light red wine, such as Pinot Noir, can lift the flavors of the soup, making for an elegant pairing.
Fruit Tart: End your meal on a sweet note with a classic fruit tart, offering a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the soup.

How to Store and Freeze Homemade Ground Beef Pasta Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days to keep your soup fresh and flavorful.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze your homemade ground beef pasta soup for up to 3 months. Consider omitting the pasta before freezing to maintain texture.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. If pasta was frozen separately, add it during the reheating process.

Serving Tip: Pair your reheated soup with warm garlic bread or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a delicious meal.

Homemade Ground Beef Pasta Soup Recipe FAQs

What type of ground beef should I use?
I recommend using ground beef with an 80/20 or 85/15 lean-to-fat ratio. This balance provides rich flavor without being overly greasy. If you prefer a leaner taste, you can opt for ground turkey or chicken, though the flavor profile will change slightly.

How should I store leftover soup?
Store your Homemade Ground Beef Pasta Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to let the soup cool before sealing it, which helps to maintain the best flavor and texture.

Can I freeze this soup, and how do I do it?
Absolutely! You can freeze your Homemade Ground Beef Pasta Soup for up to 3 months. I recommend omitting the pasta before freezing to keep its texture intact. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

What if my soup is too greasy?
If you find your soup too greasy, you can skim some off the surface after it’s cooked. Another trick is to chill the soup, allowing the fat to solidify on top, which you can easily remove. For future batches, ensure you properly drain excess fat after browning the beef to prevent this issue.

Can I use fresh vegetables instead of frozen?
Very! Feel free to use fresh vegetables in your Homemade Ground Beef Pasta Soup. Just chop them into similar sizes as the frozen ones and add them slightly earlier in the cooking process, depending on their cooking times. Fresh spinach, carrots, or bell peppers can add an amazing splash of color and nutrition!

Is this soup pet-friendly?
While some ingredients in the Homemade Ground Beef Pasta Soup are safe for pets, such as plain cooked beef and vegetables without seasoning, it’s best to refrain from sharing with them. The soup contains garlic and onion, which are harmful to dogs and cats. It’s safest to keep this warm comfort food to yourself!