Beef and Macaroni Soup

Ingredients

:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup elbow macaroni
– 1 cup diced carrots
– 1 cup diced celery
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1 cup green beans, chopped (fresh or frozen)
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions:

1. **Cook the Ground Beef:**
– In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
– Drain any excess fat.

2. **Add Aromatics:**
– Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the browned ground beef. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion is softened and translucent.

3. **Add Liquids and Vegetables:**
– Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, beef broth, and water.
– Add the diced carrots, celery, corn, and green beans.

4. **Season and Simmer:**
– Stir in the dried basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
– Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.

5. **Cook the Macaroni:**
– Add the elbow macaroni to the pot and continue to simmer for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the macaroni is cooked al dente.

6. **Adjust Seasoning and Serve:**
– Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed.
– Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, with crackers or crusty bread on the side.

Enjoy your hearty and comforting Beef and Macaroni Soup!