Here’s a complete, hearty macaroni soup recipe that’s perfect for cozy days. It’s simple, flavorful, and can be customized to your taste!
Macaroni Soup Recipe
✅ Servings: 4–6
⏰ Prep Time: 10 minutes
⏰ Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: ~40 minutes
Ingredients:
Base:
2 tbsp oil (olive or vegetable)
1 small onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1–2 celery stalks, chopped
1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
Protein (choose one):
200g (7 oz) ground beef or ground chicken/turkey
or
1 cup cooked shredded chicken
or
1 can (15 oz) beans (kidney or white beans), drained and rinsed
Liquid:
4 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
1 cup water
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
Pasta:
1 to 1½ cups elbow macaroni (or other small pasta)
Seasoning:
1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp Italian seasoning or dried basil/oregano mix
Optional: pinch of chili flakes for heat
Add-ins (optional but tasty):
1 cup chopped spinach or kale
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions:
Sauté Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat.
Add diced onion, garlic, carrot, celery, and bell pepper. Cook 5–7 minutes until softened.
Add Protein:
If using ground meat: add now and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
If using beans or cooked chicken: add later with the broth.
Pour in Liquids:
Add broth, water, and diced tomatoes (with juice).
Stir in salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Bring to a gentle boil.
Cook Macaroni:
Add macaroni directly to the soup.
Simmer uncovered 8–10 minutes, or until pasta is just tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Finish:
If using cooked chicken or beans, add now.
Stir in spinach/kale or other add-ins during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Taste and adjust seasoning.
Serve:
Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs or grated cheese if desired.
Tips:
Make it creamy: Stir in ½ cup of milk or cream at the end.
Make it spicy: Add hot sauce or extra chili flakes.
Make-ahead: If making ahead, cook pasta separately and add before serving to prevent sogginess.
