Delicious Ground Beef Pasta Soup

There’s something deeply comforting about a steaming bowl of ground beef pasta soup on the table. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day—rich, savory, and incredibly satisfying without being complicated. This Delicious Ground Beef Pasta Soup is perfect for busy weeknights, chilly evenings, or anytime you want a hearty homemade dinner that comes together fast with pantry-friendly ingredients. With deeply browned beef, aromatic garlic, and perfectly tender pasta, this soup delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in about 30 minutes from start to finish
• Rich, beefy flavor with a cozy, comforting broth
• One-pot recipe for easy cleanup
• Budget-friendly and filling for the whole family
• Simple ingredients with big payoff

Ingredients

For the Soup

• Ground beef (1 lb, 80/20 chuck preferred) – Adds richness and deep flavor thanks to the higher fat content
• Diced onion (1/2 cup) – Builds a savory, aromatic base
• Beef pasta meal kit (1 package) – Provides seasoned pasta and a balanced flavor profile
• Water (6 cups) – Forms the broth and allows flavors to meld
• Dried basil (2 tsp) – Adds subtle herbal warmth
• Black pepper (1/4 tsp) – Gives gentle heat and balance
• Fresh garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Brings bold aroma and depth
• Mushrooms (4 oz, canned stems and pieces) – Add earthiness and natural umami
• Smoked paprika (1/2 tsp) – Enhances the soup with a smoky undertone

For the Garnish

• Fresh parsley (2 tbsp, chopped) – Brightens the soup and adds fresh contrast

How to Make Delicious Ground Beef Pasta Soup

Brown the Beef and Onion

Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, breaking the meat into small pieces as it cooks. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is deeply browned and the onion is soft and translucent. This browning step is crucial—it builds the foundation of flavor. Drain off excess fat, leaving just a light coating in the pot for richness.

Bloom the Garlic and Build the Broth

Add the minced garlic to the pot and stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Fresh garlic releases its essential oils quickly, so don’t walk away here. Pour in the water, then add the sauce mix packet from the pasta meal kit, dried basil, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Stir well until the seasoning dissolves completely.

Simmer for Flavor

Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and cover. Let it simmer gently for 10 minutes. This step allows the dried herbs and spices to fully hydrate and infuse the broth with flavor before the pasta goes in.

Add Pasta and Mushrooms

Stir in the pasta from the meal kit along with the canned mushrooms, including their liquid. Make sure the pasta is fully submerged so it cooks evenly. Bring the soup back to a boil, then reduce the heat again, cover, and simmer for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Finish and Serve

Remove the pot from the heat and taste, adjusting seasoning if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness that balances the rich, savory broth.

Tips for Success

• Let the beef brown deeply before adding liquids for maximum flavor
• Stir the pasta occasionally to prevent clumping
• Use fresh garlic instead of jarred for the best aroma
• If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth

Equipment Needed

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Recipe Variations

• Vegetable-Loaded Version: Add diced carrots, celery, or spinach
• Spicy Ground Beef Pasta Soup: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce
• Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of cream or milk at the end
• Lean Protein Option: Substitute ground turkey or chicken

Serving Suggestions

Serve this homemade ground beef pasta soup with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad. It also pairs well with a grilled cheese sandwich for an ultra-cozy meal.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Does the pasta get too soft when reheated?
It may soften slightly. Add a bit of water when reheating to loosen the soup.

Can I freeze this soup?
You can, but pasta may become softer after thawing. For best texture, freeze before adding pasta.

Can I use fresh mushrooms instead of canned?
Absolutely. Sauté them with the onions for extra flavor.

Is this soup very salty?
The seasoning packet provides salt, so taste before adding any extra.

Final Thoughts

This easy ground beef pasta soup is proof that simple ingredients can create deeply satisfying results. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for sharing around the table with people you love. Try it once, make it your own, and enjoy the comfort of a homemade meal that always hits the spot. If you make it, don’t forget to share your twist on this cozy classic.

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