Nothing quite beats the warm, hearty comfort of a good soup on a cozy evening, and this Creamy Ground Beef and Tomato Soup Recipe is exactly that kind of dish. It combines rich, savory ground beef with the bright acidity of tomatoes and a smooth creaminess that wraps every spoonful in pure satisfaction. With layers of flavor from caramelized onions and garlic, Italian seasoning, and a touch of Parmesan on top, this soup feels like a loving hug in a bowl. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make, making it a perfect choice whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a satisfying solo meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows various cooking ingredients arranged on a white marbled surface. On the left, there is an open large can filled with crushed tomatoes in a deep red color. Next to it is a small white bowl with bright red tomato paste. Below that, there is a small glass jar with light brown stock. In the center, a white bowl holds a pile of small yellow pasta tubes. Beside it, a white bowl contains chopped white onions with a slightly translucent texture. Below the onions, a small white bowl contains minced garlic mixed with dried green and black herbs. On the right side, a white plate holds a rectangular chunk of raw ground beef with a red and slightly shiny texture. Above the beef, there is a clear glass jug filled with thick white heavy cream. The overall look is clean and organized with bright and natural lighting, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

For this recipe, you’ll want ingredients that keep things straightforward but let every flavor shine through. Each item plays a key role, from the tender pasta adding texture to the creamy finish that brings everything together beautifully.

Olive oil: The base that helps sauté onions and garlic, adding a subtle fruity richness.
Yellow onion: Brings a mild sweetness that caramelizes to enhance the soup’s depth.
Garlic: Adds a fragrant punch that complements the meat and tomatoes perfectly.
Italian seasoning: A herbal blend that layers in classic Mediterranean flavors.
Tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor, giving the soup a rich, tangy backbone.
Ground beef: Provides hearty protein and savory flavor that makes the soup filling.
Chicken stock: The liquid base that melds all ingredients and adds savory warmth.
Crushed tomatoes: Offers fresh tomato flavor and a slightly chunky texture.
Ditalini pasta: Small tube-shaped pasta that’s perfect for soups, adding bite-sized comfort.
Heavy cream: Gives the soup its luscious creaminess and smooth texture.
Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
Shaved Parmesan and chopped parsley: Garnishes that bring a salty, fresh finish to every bowl.

How to Make Creamy Ground Beef and Tomato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the aromatics

Start by heating olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Add diced yellow onion along with some salt and pepper, cooking for about 6 to 8 minutes until the onions begin to caramelize and turn a beautiful golden brown. This step is crucial because those browned onions bring a sweet, rich base flavor to the whole soup.

Step 2: Build flavor with garlic, seasoning, and tomato paste

Next, toss in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and tomato paste with a pinch more salt and pepper. Stir this fragrant mixture often for about a minute to let all those flavors bloom and meld together into an irresistible aroma.

Step 3: Brown the ground beef

Create a little well in the pot by pushing the veggies to the sides. Add ground beef seasoned with salt and pepper to the center and crank the heat up to medium-high. Cook the beef, breaking it up with your spatula, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. The browned bits sticking to the pan add incredible flavor, so be sure to scrape those up as you cook.

Step 4: Add liquids, tomatoes, and pasta

Pour in the chicken stock and crushed tomatoes, along with uncooked ditalini pasta. Season again with salt and pepper, then bring everything up to a gentle simmer. This rich combination is where the flavors start to get cozy together, with the pasta soaking up all that delicious tomato and beef essence.

Step 5: Simmer the soup to let flavors marry

Lower the heat and cover the pot. Let the soup gently simmer for about 5 minutes until the pasta reaches an al dente texture. Remember to stir often to avoid the pasta sticking to the bottom, which keeps the soup creamy and smooth.

Step 6: Stir in cream and adjust seasoning

Finally, fold in the heavy cream, giving the soup its signature luscious creaminess. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. This step transforms the soup into a silky, comforting bowl that’s downright irresistible.

Step 7: Garnish and serve

Top each serving with shaved Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley to add brightness and a touch of salty richness that takes the dish over the top. Now your Creamy Ground Beef and Tomato Soup Recipe is ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Ground Beef and Tomato Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Adding shaved Parmesan introduces a nutty, salty layer of flavor that melts slightly into the warm soup. Fresh parsley offers a pop of color and a mild herbaceous contrast, balancing the creamy richness beautifully.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon and olive oil or a crusty baguette for dunking. Garlic bread or cheesy crostini can also make your meal feel indulgently cozy and complete.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the soup in rustic bread bowls to impress guests or dollop a spoonful of pesto or a swirl of balsamic glaze on top to add fresh and tangy flavor contrasts that keep every bite exciting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Ground Beef and Tomato Soup Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen overnight, making it perfect for a ready-made meal the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup to enjoy at a later date. Just let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Remember, the pasta might absorb some liquid upon thawing, but stirring in a little extra broth when reheating fixes this right up.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. If the soup thickens too much, loosen it with a splash of chicken stock or water to bring back that creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be a lighter alternative that still works well. You might want to add a bit more seasoning since these meats are milder than beef.

What can I substitute for the ditalini pasta?

Feel free to use any small pasta shape like elbow macaroni, small shells, or orzo. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly so the pasta is perfectly tender.

Is there a dairy-free way to make this soup?

You can swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk or a creamy plant-based milk like cashew cream for a delicious dairy-free version that keeps the soup rich and smooth.

How spicy is this soup? Can I add heat?

This recipe is mild and comforting, but you can easily add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during cooking or at the table if you want to turn up the heat.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef and sauté the aromatics on the stove first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for about 4 hours or until the pasta is tender (add pasta halfway through cooking to prevent it from overcooking).

Final Thoughts

Once you make this Creamy Ground Beef and Tomato Soup Recipe, it’s sure to become a favorite for cold nights, weeknight dinners, or anytime you want a meal that feels both nourishing and indulgent. Its rich, hearty flavors and creamy texture are incredibly satisfying, and the way it comes together with simple kitchen staples makes it a real winner. So go ahead, dive in and enjoy every warm spoonful!