Meatball Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for warming up on a cold day. This delicious soup features tender meatballs simmered in a rich and flavorful broth with vegetables, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Easy to make and full of flavor, this Meatball Soup is a great option for family dinners or meal prepping for the week. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, everyone can enjoy this cozy homemade soup.
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Tips for Perfect Meatball Soup
- Recipe Variations
- FAQs
- Serving Suggestions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
For the Soup
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 6 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)
- 1/2 cup small pasta (optional)
Instructions
- Make the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley. Mix until well combined. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Brown the Meatballs: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the broth, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the Meatballs: Carefully add the browned meatballs back into the pot. Simmer the soup for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
- Add Spinach and Pasta (Optional): If using, add the spinach or kale and small pasta to the soup. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the greens are wilted.
- Serve: Ladle the meatball soup into bowls and serve warm. Garnish with extra chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Tips for Perfect Meatball Soup
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs add a lot of flavor to the soup, so try to use fresh whenever possible.
- Brown the Meatballs: Browning the meatballs before adding them to the soup adds a rich flavor and helps them hold their shape.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
Recipe Variations
- Turkey Meatball Soup: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter version of this soup.
- Spicy Meatball Soup: Add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Vegetable-Packed Soup: Add additional vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or peas for extra nutrition.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
Q: Can I freeze meatball soup?
A: Yes, meatball soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: Can I use store-bought meatballs?
A: Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can use frozen or store-bought meatballs. Just add them to the soup and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
- With Crusty Bread: Serve the soup with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
- With a Side Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- With Grated Cheese: Top each bowl with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Meatball Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of year. The tender meatballs, flavorful broth, and fresh vegetables make this soup both delicious and nutritious. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or to meal prep for the week, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors in every bowl!
This soup is versatile and can be easily customized with your favorite ingredients. Whether you add extra vegetables, use different meats, or make it spicy, Meatball Soup is sure to become a favorite in your home. Share it with friends and family, and enjoy the warmth and comfort it brings!
