Affordable Basic Restaurant Style Tomato and Macaroni Soup

Indulge in the comforting simplicity of this Affordable Basic Restaurant-Style Tomato and Macaroni Soup, a budget-friendly recipe that delivers rich, homemade flavor in every spoonful. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or cozy lunches, this hearty soup features tender elbow macaroni swimming in a velvety tomato base, infused with aromatic garlic, onion, and a medley of dried herbs like oregano and basil. A splash of optional heavy cream adds a luxurious touch, while vibrant fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese make for the ultimate garnish. Ready in just 35 minutes and easy on your wallet, this customizable soup is a satisfying blend of rustic charm and restaurant-quality taste tailored for any home cook.

Nutriscore Rating: 68/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:25 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup elbow macaroni
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.25 cup heavy cream (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
• 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Directions

Step 1

Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.

Step 2

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.

Step 3

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, sugar, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.

Step 5

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Step 6

If desired, use an immersion blender to puree the soup for a smoother texture, or leave it chunky for a rustic feel.

Step 7

Stir in the heavy cream (if using) and cooked macaroni. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to warm everything through.

Step 8

Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if needed.

Step 9

Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	2136.1 grams (2136.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1423

Total Fat 70.00g	90%
Saturated Fat 28.80g	144%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.70g
Cholesterol 114mg	38%
Sodium 8044mg	350%
Total Carbohydrate 153.50g	56%
Dietary Fiber 21.80g	78%
Total Sugars 51.20g
Protein 52.00g	104%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1007mg	77%
Iron 13mg	73%
Potassium 3631mg	77%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 43.4%

Protein: 14.3%

Carbs: 42.3%