Rustic Italian Beef and Bean Soup
Warm up on a chilly winter day with this delicious Rustic Italian Beef and Bean Soup. Loaded with hearty ingredients like ground beef, kidney beans, and elbow macaroni, this satisfying soup is perfect for a cozy family meal. The rich flavors of spaghetti sauce combined with tender pasta make it an unforgettable dish. Serve it with a side of crusty bread for a complete experience that will leave you feeling nourished and comforted. Originally inspired by a Mastercook Deluxe recipe, this soup has been enhanced to elevate your winter dining.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
beef broth
2 (14 1/2 ounce cans)
elbow macaroni
1/2 (cup)
ground round
1 (pound)
red kidney beans
1 (can)
spaghetti sauce
1 (cup)
Instructions
1
In a large saucepan, combine the beef broth and elbow macaroni. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring occasionally until the macaroni is tender, about 8-10 minutes.
2
While the pasta cooks, heat a frying pan over medium heat. Add the ground round and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until the meat is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat and set aside.
3
Rinse and drain the can of red kidney beans, reserving the liquid. In a blender, puree 1 cup of the beans along with the reserved liquid until smooth.
4
Once the macaroni is tender, lower the heat and stir in the pureed beans, the whole beans, the cooked ground beef, and the spaghetti sauce. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
5
Allow the soup to heat through over low heat for about 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving hot.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rustic Italian Beef and Bean Soup?
It is a hearty winter soup featuring ground beef, red kidney beans, elbow macaroni, and spaghetti sauce.
What type of meat is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for one pound of ground round.
What kind of pasta should I use?
This soup uses 1/2 cup of elbow macaroni.
How much beef broth is required?
You will need two 14.5-ounce cans of beef broth.
How long does it take to cook the macaroni?
The macaroni should be boiled in the broth for approximately 8 to 10 minutes until tender.
Do I cook the pasta in water or broth?
The macaroni is cooked directly in the beef broth to absorb more flavor.
What type of beans are used?
The recipe uses one can of red kidney beans.
Should I drain the kidney beans?
Yes, you should rinse and drain the beans, but make sure to reserve the liquid for pureeing.
Why do I need a blender for this recipe?
A blender is used to puree 1 cup of the beans with their reserved liquid to thicken the soup.
What provides the tomato base for the soup?
One cup of spaghetti sauce is added to the soup for flavor and richness.
How long should I cook the ground beef?
Cook the ground round in a frying pan for 5 to 7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
Should I drain the fat from the beef?
Yes, it is recommended to drain the excess fat after browning the meat.
When do I add the spaghetti sauce?
The spaghetti sauce is stirred in once the macaroni is tender, along with the beans and beef.
How long does the soup need to simmer at the end?
Allow the soup to heat through over low heat for about 5 minutes after all ingredients are combined.
What is a good side dish for this soup?
It is best served with a side of crusty bread.
Is this recipe suitable for cold weather?
Yes, it is described as a perfect meal for warming up on a chilly winter day.
Can I adjust the seasoning of the soup?
Yes, you should adjust the seasoning as needed just before serving hot.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 5 main ingredients: beef broth, elbow macaroni, ground round, red kidney beans, and spaghetti sauce.
What is the texture of the soup?
The soup is thick and satisfying due to the combination of whole beans, pureed beans, and pasta.
Is this a family-friendly meal?
Yes, it is a nourishing and comforting dish perfect for a cozy family meal.
What was the inspiration for this recipe?
This soup was originally inspired by a Mastercook Deluxe recipe.
Can I use a different type of bean?
While red kidney beans are specified, you could use cannellini beans for a similar Italian profile.
Can I substitute the ground round?
Yes, you can substitute other types of ground meat like turkey or lean ground beef if preferred.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include soup, Italian, beef, beans, pasta, hearty, winter, and comfort food.
Is the macaroni cooked separately?
No, the macaroni is cooked in the same large saucepan as the beef broth.
How many cans of beans are used?
The recipe uses one can of red kidney beans.
What should I do if the soup is too thick?
You can add a little extra beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Is this soup considered a comfort food?
Yes, it is categorized as a comfort food because of its rich flavors and hearty ingredients.
Do I need to boil the soup after adding the meat?
No, you should only heat it through over low heat to avoid overcooking the pasta.
Can I add extra vegetables to this soup?
While the recipe doesn't call for them, adding diced carrots or celery during the boiling stage would fit the rustic style.