Oh, meatball soup! Just the thought of it brings me back to my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, where the rich aroma would wrap around me like a warm hug. There’s something so comforting about a bowl of meatball soup simmering on the stove, filling the house with delightful scents of garlic and herbs. It’s a dish that feels like a big, loving embrace on a chilly day. I remember sitting around the table with my family, sharing stories and laughter while savoring each spoonful. This meatball soup is not just a recipe; it’s a cherished memory, a way to bring warmth and joy to my loved ones. Trust me, once you make this, you’ll find that it’s not only easy to prepare but also a delightful way to nourish your body and soul. So, let’s dive into this comforting bowl of goodness together!
Ingredients List
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 cups beef broth
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 cup pasta (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Prepare Meatball Soup Instructions
Let’s get started on making this delicious meatball soup! It’s easier than you might think, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way. First, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Mix it gently with your hands—don’t overdo it! You want your meatballs to be tender. Once it’s all mixed, start rolling the mixture into small meatballs, about an inch in diameter. You should get around 20 or so, but don’t worry if they’re a little uneven; homemade is all about love!
Next, heat your beef broth in a large pot over medium heat. While that’s warming up, chop up your carrots, celery, and onion. Once the broth is simmering gently, toss in the chopped veggies. They’ll add so much flavor and nutrition to your soup! After about 5 minutes, when those vegetables start to soften, it’s time to drop in your meatballs. Gently place them in the pot so they don’t break apart. Now, if you want to add pasta, go ahead and toss it in with the meatballs. I usually recommend a small pasta like ditalini or elbow macaroni; they fit perfectly in the soup!
Let everything cook together for about 20 minutes. You want the meatballs to be fully cooked through, and the vegetables tender. If you see any foam forming on top, just skim it off with a spoon. Finally, once everything’s ready, give your soup a taste. Adjust the seasoning if needed—maybe a little more salt or pepper! Serve it hot, garnished with fresh parsley for that lovely pop of color. Enjoy your cozy bowl of meatball soup!
Nutritional Information Section
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional values for this comforting meatball soup. Each serving, which is about 1 cup, contains approximately 350 calories. You’ll find around 15 grams of fat, with 5 grams being saturated fat. It packs a protein punch with about 25 grams, making it a filling choice. The soup also has around 30 grams of carbohydrates and 3 grams of fiber, along with 5 grams of sugar. Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used. Regardless, it’s a hearty option that’s sure to warm you up!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a quick and easy recipe that comes together in just 45 minutes.
- The soup is packed with nutrients from the fresh vegetables and lean protein.
- Meatball soup is wonderfully comforting—perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather.
- It’s a versatile dish; you can easily customize it based on what you have at home.
- This recipe makes a generous amount, providing leftovers that taste even better the next day!
- It’s a great option for family meals, bringing everyone together around the dinner table.
Ingredient Notes/Substitutions
Now, let’s chat about some ingredient swaps you might consider for this meatball soup! If you’re looking for a leaner option, feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef. They work just as well and can make your soup a bit healthier. For those watching their carbs, you can skip the pasta altogether or use a low-carb alternative like zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
If gluten is a concern, don’t worry! You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs, and your soup will still be delicious. As for the vegetables, feel free to add in any favorites you have on hand—spinach, bell peppers, or even green beans can be great additions! Just remember to adjust cooking times for any extra veggies you add. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s flexible, so get creative and make it your own!
Tips for Success
To make the perfect meatball soup, there are a few handy tips I like to keep in mind. First, always ensure your meatballs are uniform in size—this helps them cook evenly. If you find your mixture is too wet, a little extra breadcrumbs can help firm them up. When dropping the meatballs into the simmering broth, do it gently to avoid breaking them apart.
For added flavor, consider sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery in a bit of olive oil before adding the broth. This step can enhance the overall taste of your soup. Also, don’t skimp on tasting as you go! Adjust the seasoning to fit your family’s preference; a little extra Italian seasoning can elevate the dish beautifully.
Lastly, let your soup sit for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together, making each spoonful even more delightful. Trust me, these little tips can make a big difference!
Variations
One of the best things about meatball soup is how easy it is to switch things up! If you’re in the mood for something different, try adding various vegetables like spinach, kale, or even peas for a pop of color and nutrition. You can also mix in some bell peppers or corn for a sweet crunch. If you enjoy a little heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up!
For the meatballs, you might experiment with different types of ground meat. Ground pork or a mix of different meats can add wonderful flavor. Feeling adventurous? Try making meatballs with ground lamb for a unique twist! And if you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can easily substitute meatballs with lentils or chickpeas, seasoned and shaped into balls.
Lastly, consider trying different herbs and spices! Fresh basil or cilantro can bring a fresh aroma to your soup. These variations let you personalize this comforting dish just the way you like it!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your delicious meatball soup is super easy! Once it has cooled down a bit, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. If you plan to enjoy it within a few days, it’ll be just fine in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s sealed well to keep all those wonderful flavors intact!
When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, simply reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat until it’s warmed through. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Just be careful; it can get quite hot! Enjoy that comforting bowl all over again!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving meatball soup, there are some delightful options that pair beautifully with its comforting flavors! A warm, crusty bread is always a hit—think garlic bread or a lovely baguette for dipping into that rich broth. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette can be the perfect complement, balancing out the heartiness of the soup.
For a cozy touch, consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top of each bowl before serving, along with a drizzle of olive oil. And if you want to take it a step further, serve up some cheesy toast on the side. Trust me, these simple additions make the meal even more enjoyable and satisfying!
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Comforting Meatball Soup: 5 Steps to a Warm Embrace
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A comforting meatball soup that warms the heart.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 cups beef broth
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 cup pasta (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs.
- In a large pot, heat beef broth over medium heat.
- Add the carrots, celery, and onion to the pot.
- Once the broth is simmering, drop meatballs into the pot.
- Add diced tomatoes and pasta if using.
- Cook for 20 minutes until meatballs are cooked through and vegetables are tender.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for gluten-free version.
- Adjust vegetables based on preference.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: meatball soup, comfort food, easy recipe
