Meatball Soup
Meatball Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. This flavorful soup features tender meatballs simmered in a savory broth, often accompanied by vegetables and herbs, making it a wholesome meal perfect for family dinners or chilly evenings.
Whether it’s a classic Italian-style meatball soup with a tomato base or a lighter broth-based version, this dish is versatile and can be customized to suit your tastes.
Originating from various culinary traditions, Meatball Soup can take on numerous forms, showcasing the creativity of home cooks around the world.
The combination of juicy meatballs and a flavorful broth makes this dish a favorite among both adults and children. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also an excellent way to sneak in some vegetables and nutrients, making it a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients
To prepare a delicious Meatball Soup, gather the following ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or a meat alternative)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or orzo)
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese
How to Make Meatball Soup
Prepare the Meatballs:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
Brown the Meatballs:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, transfer them to a plate and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
Add the Broth and Tomatoes:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the can of diced tomatoes (with juice). Stir in the dried basil, dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Add the Meatballs and Pasta:
Once the broth is boiling, carefully return the browned meatballs to the pot. Add the small pasta of your choice. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked and the meatballs are heated through.
Incorporate Greens (Optional):
If you’re adding spinach or kale, stir it into the soup during the last 5 minutes of cooking. The greens will wilt quickly, adding a vibrant color and extra nutrients to the dish.
Serve the Soup:
Once everything is cooked, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Ladle the Meatball Soup into bowls, garnishing with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
Enjoy:
Enjoy your hearty Meatball Soup, savoring each flavorful spoonful!
Chef’s Note
Meatball Soup is highly adaptable, and you can modify the ingredients based on what you have on hand. Feel free to use a different type of ground meat or a combination of meats for added flavor. Additionally, you can experiment with various herbs and spices, such as adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or using fresh herbs for a more aromatic profile.
For a lighter version, reduce the amount of pasta or substitute it with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. This dish is also perfect for meal prep; it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for longer storage. When reheating, you may need to add a little broth or water to maintain the desired consistency.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Meatball Soup is not only a comforting meal but also offers a good balance of protein from the meatballs, vitamins, and minerals from the vegetables, and carbohydrates from the pasta. Be mindful of the sodium content, especially if using store-bought broth and canned tomatoes; opting for low-sodium versions can help manage salt intake.
Conclusion
Meatball Soup is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings together the beloved flavors of meatballs in a hearty soup format. Its simplicity and versatility make it a favorite among home cooks and families alike.
Perfect for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to gatherings with friends, this comforting soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, prepare a pot, and enjoy the delightful flavors and warmth that Meatball Soup has to offer!
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