There’s just something magical about the aroma of tomato meatball soup simmering on the stove, isn’t there? It instantly brings back memories of cozy family gatherings and chilly evenings spent wrapped in blankets. I can still hear my grandmother’s laughter while we huddled around the kitchen table, bowls of steaming soup in hand. Each spoonful was filled with warmth and comfort, a hearty hug on a cold day. This soup is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that wraps you in nostalgia and love. The tender meatballs, rich tomato base, and fragrant herbs combine to create a dish that satisfies the soul. Whether you’re gathering the family for dinner or simply seeking comfort on a quiet night in, this tomato meatball soup is your go-to. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it a regular feature in your kitchen, just like my family did!
Ingredients List
To create this comforting tomato meatball soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable or beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Feel free to adjust any of these ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs—like using ground turkey instead of beef or swapping in gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version!
How to Prepare Tomato Meatball Soup
Preparing this tomato meatball soup is a delightful process, and I’m here to guide you step by step! With just a bit of time and love, you’ll have a warm, hearty soup that’s sure to bring a smile to your face. Let’s dive in!
Step-by-Step Instructions
First, let’s get our meatballs ready. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands (it’s way more fun!) to mix everything together until just combined. Then, form the mixture into small meatballs, about one inch in diameter. Place them on a plate and set aside.
Next, grab a large pot and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the meatballs to the pot. Brown the meatballs on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. You want them nice and golden! Once they’re browned, gently remove them from the pot and set them aside on a plate.
Now it’s time to add some flavor! In the same pot, toss in the chopped onion and diced carrot. Cook these for about 5 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. Oh, the smell is already heavenly!
Once the veggies are ready, pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth. Stir in the dried basil and oregano, bringing everything to a gentle boil. This is where the magic starts to happen!
After the soup has reached a boil, return the meatballs to the pot. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures the meatballs cook through. Just imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen!
Finally, once the soup is done, ladle it into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve it hot, and enjoy every comforting spoonful of your homemade tomato meatball soup!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This tomato meatball soup is the ultimate hearty comfort food that warms you from the inside out. With a quick preparation time of just 45 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a cozy meal. You’ll love how easy it is to customize the recipe, whether you prefer ground turkey, chicken, or adding in extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini. Plus, it’s fantastic for meal prep! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. Every spoonful is a reminder of home and warmth, making it a dish you’ll want to make again and again.
Tips for Success
To ensure your tomato meatball soup turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips! First, when browning the meatballs, be sure not to overcrowd the pot. This allows them to brown evenly, creating that lovely golden crust. If your pot is too full, consider browning them in batches.
As for seasoning, feel free to taste the broth as it simmers. If you like a bit more spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a lovely kick. And remember, you can always adjust the salt based on your preference or dietary needs!
For storage, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It keeps well in the fridge for up to three days, or you can freeze it for up to three months—just be sure to label the containers! This way, you can enjoy a comforting bowl of soup whenever you crave it!
Variations of Tomato Meatball Soup
One of the best parts about this tomato meatball soup is how easily you can make it your own! If you’re looking to switch things up, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version. You can also get creative with your veggies—adding diced zucchini, bell peppers, or even kale can boost nutrition and flavor! Feeling adventurous? Toss in some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a touch of sweetness. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to experiment and find your perfect combination!
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this comforting tomato meatball soup is packed with flavor and nutrition. Here’s a quick breakdown of the typical values per bowl:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
Please remember that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. It’s a hearty meal that can fit nicely into your daily nutrition!
FAQ Section
Can I freeze tomato meatball soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes beautifully. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove over low heat.
What substitutions can I make for dietary restrictions?
You can easily adapt this recipe to fit various dietary needs. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Ground turkey or chicken makes a great lean alternative to beef. If you’re vegetarian, try using plant-based meat substitutes or even lentils for the meatballs!
How can I adjust the seasoning?
Taste is key! As the soup simmers, feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking. If you prefer a bolder flavor, consider adding more herbs or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Just remember to add salt gradually to avoid over-seasoning!
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this tomato meatball soup a try! It’s such a comforting dish that can bring warmth to any day. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you—whether it’s for a family dinner or a quiet night in. Enjoy every delightful spoonful!
For more information on the health benefits of tomatoes, you can visit Healthline.
To learn more about the nutritional value of meatballs, check out Nutrition Value.
Print
Comforting Tomato Meatball Soup: A Hearty Hug in a Bowl
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A comforting and hearty tomato meatball soup perfect for cozy meals.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable or beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add meatballs and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Add onion and carrot to the pot. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add crushed tomatoes, broth, basil, and oregano. Bring to a boil.
- Return meatballs to the pot. Reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
- Add spinach or other vegetables for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: tomato meatball soup, comfort food, easy recipe
