Step 1

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.

Step 2

Add onion and saute until tender.

Step 3

Add garlic and cook until fragrant.

Step 4

Stir in ground beef. (season beef with salt and pepper if desired)

Step 5

When beef is cooked, drain off the excess fat.

Step 6

Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce.

Step 7

Stir in the brown sugar, basil, oregano, thyme, and bay leaf.

Step 8

Taste and adjust seasonings. (It should taste good enough to eat as is)

Step 9

Let sauce simmer for 20 minutes (I usually prepare the pasta at this time.)

Step 10

Add cooked macaroni to the soup.

Step 11

Ladled soup into bowls.

Step 12

Serve topped with shredded cheddar cheese