Italian Beef Soup with Pasta

Chef Amelia
October 20, 2023
118 Comments

If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting soup that’s packed with flavor, look no further than Italian beef soup with pasta! It’s easy to make and perfect for a cold day.

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I love making this soup on a busy weeknight when I need a quick and satisfying meal. It comes together in just about 30 minutes, and it’s the perfect way to warm up.

This soup is also a great way to use up leftover ground beef. If you have any on hand, simply add it to the soup and let it simmer until heated through. The ground beef will add extra flavor and make the soup even more filling.

What is Italian Beef Soup with Pasta?

Italian beef soup with pasta is a recipe dish that combines tender beef, savory broth, and al dente pasta. Originating from Italy, this soup has become a beloved staple in kitchens around the world.

The beef is typically accompanied by vegetables, such as carrots, celery, and onions, which add depth and flavor to the soup. To complete the dish, pasta is added.

How to Make Italian Beef Soup with Pasta

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make this flavorful dish at home.

Ingredients used to make Italian beef soup with pasta

Tomatoes: Whether it’s fresh tomatoes that have been chopped and simmered or canned tomatoes that have been crushed or diced.

Onions: Adds flavor to the soup, and when they are sautéed before being added to the soup, they become soft and tender, adding a nice texture.

Carrots: Adds a touch of sweetness and a pop of color to the soup, and when they are cooked, they become tender and add a nice texture to the dish.

Garlic: Whether it’s minced, crushed, or sliced, garlic adds a powerful punch of flavor to the dish.

Celery: adds a refreshing and crisp element to the soup, balancing out the richness of the beef and pasta. It also adds a subtle hint of earthiness to the overall flavor profile.

A combination of dried herbs like oregano, thyme, and basil can be added to enhance the Italian flavors.

Beef broth or stock is used as the base for the soup. Homemade beef broth is preferred for a more authentic and flavorful result, but store-bought options can be used as well.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
In the same pot, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in the beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), bay leaf, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.
Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Once the beef is tender, remove the bay leaf from the soup. Add the cooked pasta and let it simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Italian beef soup with pasta being served on a plate

Special tips for making Italian beef soup with pasta

Here are some special tips to make your Italian beef soup with pasta even more delicious:

Choose the right cut of beef: For the best flavor and tenderness, opt for a tougher cut of beef like chuck roast or bottom round. These cuts are perfect for slow cooking..

Brown the beef: Before adding the beef to the soup, take the time to brown it. Heat some oil in a large pot over medium-high heat, then sear the beef on all sides until nicely browned.

Use homemade beef broth: While you can use store-bought beef broth, making your own homemade broth takes the flavor of your soup to a whole new level. Simmer beef bones, vegetables, and herbs in water for a few hours.

Choose the right pasta: Opt for something sturdy that can hold up to the hearty ingredients. Short pasta shapes like macaroni, penne, or rotini work well in this soup.

Avoid delicate pasta shapes like angel hair or linguine, as they may become mushy when cooked in the soup.

Italian beef soup with pasta being served hot

Cook the pasta separately: To prevent the pasta from becoming overcooked and mushy, cook it separately from the soup. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente.

Drain the pasta and add it to individual bowls, then ladle the hot soup over the pasta. This way, each serving will have perfectly cooked pasta.

Adjust the seasonings: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasonings as needed. Depending on your preference, you can add more salt, pepper, or herbs to enhance the flavors.

Let it rest: After the soup is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes for a more flavorful and cohesive soup.

Variations of Italian Beef Soup with Pasta

Italian cuisine is known for its regional specialties and diverse flavors.

There are various delicious variations to explore. Here are a few regional twists on this classic dish:

Tuscan Style: In Tuscany, Italian beef soup with pasta takes on a different charm. It often features cannellini beans and kale.
Sicilian Style: Head to Sicily, and you’ll discover Italian beef soup with pasta that incorporates a medley of Mediterranean flavors. Alongside the beef and pasta, you’ll find ingredients such as olives, capers, and sun-dried tomatoes.

Roman Style: If you find yourself in Rome, try the Roman-style Italian beef soup with pasta, known as “stracciatella.” In this variation, beaten eggs are gently stirred into the simmering broth, creating delicate ribbons of cooked egg.

Feel free to experiment with these variations or create your own unique twist on Italian beef soup with pasta.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Italian beef soup with pasta pairs perfectly with a variety of sides and complements. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience:

Bread Basket: Serve Italian crusty bread, such as ciabatta or focaccia, on the side. The warm and crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
Fresh Salad: Accompany your soup with a refreshing salad. A simple green salad with a zesty lemon vinaigrette or a classic Caprese salad with juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves can add a burst of freshness to your meal.
Grated Parmesan: Grate some Parmesan cheese on top of your soup just before serving. The salty and nutty flavor of Parmesan enhances the flavors of the soup and adds a delightful richness.

Red Wine: For a truly Italian dining experience, pair your Italian beef soup with a glass of red wine. A medium-bodied Chianti or a robust Sangiovese would complement the flavors of the dish.

Remember, the side dishes and pairings are open to your personal preferences and taste. Feel free to experiment and find the combination that pleases your palate the most.

More beef soup recipes that you might try out:

Puerto Rican Style Beef Soup Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions about Italian Beef Soup with Pasta

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Italian beef soup with pasta is versatile, and you can experiment with different pasta shapes. Try using small-sized pasta, such as macaroni, penne, or farfalle, for a traditional touch. Or, explore unique options like orecchiette or tortellini for a twist.

Can I make Italian beef soup with pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Italian beef soup with pasta ahead of time. The flavors often deepen and develop when the soup sits for a while. Simply store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat it gently on the stovetop when ready to serve. Add extra broth if needed to adjust the consistency.

Can I freeze Italian beef soup with pasta?

Certainly! Italian beef soup with pasta freezes well, making it a convenient option for meal prep. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers or bags. When reheating, ensure that the soup reaches a safe internal temperature.

How long does Italian beef soup with pasta last in the refrigerator?

Italian beef soup with pasta can be safely stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to store it in a tightly sealed container to maintain freshness.

What are some additional seasonings I can add to the soup?

Feel free to add herbs and spices to further enhance the flavors of the soup. Rosemary, thyme, or basil can bring an aromatic touch. A dash of red pepper flakes can add a hint of heat if desired.

Italian Beef Soup with Pasta

Chef Amelia

This Italian beef soup with pasta recipe is packed with flavor and perfect for a cold day. It's also easy to make and perfect for using up leftover ground beef.

3 from 4 votes

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 1 30

Total Time 1 40

Course Main Course, Side Dish

Cuisine Italian

Servings 5 people

Calories 571 kcal

Ingredients

1 pound beef cut into bite-sized pieces
1 onion diced
2 carrots sliced

2 celery stalks chopped
3 cloves of garlic minced
4 cups beef broth

1 can diced tomatoes
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried thyme

Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup pasta of your choice
Fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
In the same pot, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in the beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), bay leaf, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beef is tender.

Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Once the beef is tender, remove the bay leaf from the soup. Add the cooked pasta and let it simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Keyword beef soup recipes, beef soup with pasta recipes, Italian beef soup with pasta, Italian cuisines

Chef Amelia

Amelia is a passionate chef who finds joy in trying out different cuisines and dishes and sharing her expertise with the world. She enjoys cooking and curating recipes so much!

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