Macaroni Hamburger Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Sausage Ditalini Soup: Just the name conjures up images of cozy nights, warm bowls, and the comforting aroma of simmering herbs, doesn’t it? I’m thrilled to share my family’s cherished recipe for this hearty and flavorful soup, a dish that has warmed our bellies and lifted our spirits for generations. Forget those bland, watery soups – this is a flavor explosion in every spoonful!

While the exact origins of Sausage Ditalini Soup are debated, its Italian-American roots are undeniable. Ditalini pasta, meaning “little thimbles,” is a staple in Southern Italian cuisine, often paired with robust sauces and broths. The addition of sausage elevates this simple pasta dish into a complete and satisfying meal, reflecting the resourceful and flavorful cooking style of Italian immigrants who adapted their traditional recipes to the ingredients available in their new home.

But what makes this soup so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures – the tender ditalini, the savory sausage, the soft vegetables, all swimming in a rich, flavorful broth. It’s also incredibly versatile and convenient. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables, adjust the spice level to your liking, and even make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend lunch, this Sausage Ditalini Soup is guaranteed to become a new family favorite. So, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• 1 cup elbow macaroni
• 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
• Optional: shredded cheddar cheese, for topping

Browning the Beef and Aromatics

Okay, let’s get started! The first step is to brown our ground beef. This is crucial for developing a rich, savory flavor in the soup. Trust me, don’t skip this step!

1. Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to get a good sear on the beef.
2. Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it up with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. You want to ensure it’s evenly distributed and not clumping together too much.
3. Cook the beef until it’s browned all over. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Keep stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even browning.
4. Once the beef is browned, drain off any excess grease. Nobody wants a greasy soup! You can carefully tilt the pot and spoon out the grease, or use a colander if you prefer.
5. Now, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the browned beef.
6. Cook the onion and garlic until they’re softened and fragrant. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning. You’ll know they’re ready when the onion is translucent and the garlic smells amazing!

Building the Soup Base

Now that we have our flavorful base, it’s time to build the soup! This is where all the delicious tomato goodness comes in.

1. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes (undrained) to the pot. The diced tomatoes add a nice texture to the soup, so don’t drain them!
2. Pour in the beef broth and water. The beef broth will provide a rich, savory depth of flavor, while the water helps to thin the soup to the desired consistency.
3. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. These herbs and spices will add a wonderful aroma and flavor to the soup. Feel free to adjust the amount of salt and pepper to your liking.
4. Bring the soup to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and deepen. The longer it simmers, the better it will taste! You can simmer it for up to an hour for an even richer flavor.

Adding the Macaroni and Vegetables

Almost there! Now we’re going to add the macaroni and vegetables. This is what transforms our flavorful tomato base into a hearty and satisfying soup.

1. Add the elbow macaroni to the pot. Stir it in well to ensure it’s evenly distributed throughout the soup.
2. Increase the heat to medium and bring the soup back to a simmer.
3. Cook the macaroni until it’s tender. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes, but check the package directions for the specific cooking time for your macaroni. Stir occasionally to prevent the macaroni from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
4. Once the macaroni is almost done, add the frozen mixed vegetables to the pot.
5. Cook the vegetables until they’re heated through. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. You want them to be tender-crisp, not mushy.

Serving and Enjoying

The soup is ready! Now comes the best part – serving and enjoying it!

1. Ladle the macaroni hamburger soup into bowls.
2. Optional: Top with shredded cheddar cheese. This adds a creamy, cheesy element that complements the flavors of the soup perfectly.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy! This soup is delicious on its own, but it’s also great with a side of crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
• Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as celery, carrots, or bell peppers. Just chop them up and add them along with the onion and garlic.
• Use different meat: You can substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for the ground beef.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can also add a can of beans for extra protein.
• Slow cooker version: Brown the beef and aromatics as directed above. Then, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the macaroni during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage.

Enjoy your homemade Macaroni Hamburger Soup! I hope you love it as much as I do!

Conclusion:

This Macaroni Hamburger Soup isn’t just another weeknight meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a comforting classic reimagined for busy lives. I truly believe it’s a must-try for anyone seeking a hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy-to-make dinner. The combination of savory ground beef, tender macaroni, and a vibrant tomato-based broth creates a symphony of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s the kind of dish that evokes memories of childhood, while still feeling fresh and exciting.

But what truly sets this recipe apart is its versatility. Feel free to adapt it to your own tastes and preferences. Want to kick up the spice? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. Looking for a vegetarian option? Simply substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or even lentils. You can also experiment with different vegetables. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach would be delicious additions.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a complete meal, I love serving this soup with a side of crusty bread for dipping. A simple green salad also complements the richness of the soup beautifully. And don’t forget the toppings! A dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese, or a handful of fresh parsley can elevate the dish to a whole new level.

Here are a few more ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

* Creamy Macaroni Hamburger Soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for an extra decadent touch.
* Italian-Inspired Soup: Add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning and a can of diced tomatoes with basil, garlic, and oregano.
* Spicy Southwestern Soup: Incorporate a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies and a pinch of cumin.
* Slow Cooker Macaroni Hamburger Soup: Brown the ground beef and then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

The possibilities are endless! This recipe is a blank canvas, waiting for you to add your own personal touch.

I’m confident that this Macaroni Hamburger Soup will become a staple in your household. It’s quick, easy, and satisfying – everything you could ask for in a weeknight dinner. It’s also incredibly budget-friendly, making it a great option for feeding a crowd or simply stretching your grocery budget.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get cooking! I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the deliciousness for yourself.

And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you make any modifications? What did your family think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. Let’s create a community of soup lovers and inspire each other with our culinary creations. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to see what you come up with. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me continue to create recipes that you’ll love. So please, don’t be shy – share your thoughts and let’s connect over a shared love of good food!