Meatball Soup
Highlighted under: Family Comfort Meals
Warm up with this hearty and comforting Meatball Soup that's perfect for any occasion. Loaded with juicy meatballs, fresh vegetables, and flavorful broth, this dish is a wholesome family favorite that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Quick to prepare and packed with nutrients, it’s an ideal weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat.
This Meatball Soup brings warmth and comfort to the dinner table. A perfect blend of flavors and textures, it is sure to become a family favorite.
A Comforting Classic
Meatball soup is a classic dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. It combines the savory flavors of juicy meatballs with fresh, vibrant vegetables, making it a wholesome choice for families. The hearty nature of the soup makes it perfect for chilly evenings, serving not just as a meal but as an experience that warms the heart.
This dish is versatile and can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary needs. Whether you prefer your meatballs spiced with herbs or like them paired with a variety of seasonal vegetables, there are endless possibilities. Meatball soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a canvas that allows you to get creative in the kitchen.
Nutritious Ingredients
One of the standout features of meatball soup is its nutritious ingredients. The combination of beef, vegetables, and broth creates a meal packed with essential vitamins and minerals. Carrots and celery not only enhance the flavor but also provide fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting overall health.
Using fresh ingredients is key to elevating this dish. Opt for organic vegetables and quality beef for an even richer taste. Preparing the broth from scratch can further boost the nutritional value, allowing you to control the ingredients and avoid preservatives found in store-bought options.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Meatball soup isn’t just for family dinners. Its adaptability makes it suitable for various occasions—from casual weeknight meals to holiday gatherings. You can easily make a large batch to serve guests during a cozy get-together or prepare it ahead of time and enjoy the leftovers throughout the week.
Additionally, meatball soup is a crowd-pleaser. With its delightful combination of flavors and textures, it appeals to both children and adults. You can effortlessly adjust the recipe to make it mild or spicy, ensuring that everyone at your table enjoys a bowl of comforting goodness.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Soup
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Mix ingredients thoroughly before forming meatballs.
Cooking Instructions
Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into meatballs.
Cook the Meatballs
In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add meatballs and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Make the Soup
In the same pot, add beef broth, carrots, celery, onion, tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Combine and Simmer
Return meatballs to the pot. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Enjoy your hearty Meatball Soup!
Tips for the Best Meatballs
To achieve the most flavorful meatballs, allow your mixture to rest for about 10 minutes before shaping. This helps to meld the flavors together and ensures a tender texture. Additionally, avoid overmixing when combining the ingredients; a gentle hand will keep your meatballs light and airy.
Consider using different types of ground meat—such as turkey or chicken—for a lighter version of the dish. You can also add grated vegetables like zucchini or carrots directly into the meatball mixture for added moisture and nutrition.
Storage and Reheating
Meatball soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain its quality, it’s best to cool the soup completely before transferring it to an airtight container. If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing individual portions, which allows for easy reheating anytime.
When reheating, do it gently on the stove over low heat, or use a microwave-safe bowl. If the soup thickens after storage, simply add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your meatball soup with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top of the soup can complement the flavors beautifully, adding an extra layer of richness and texture.
For those looking to add a bit more indulgence, consider including a side of garlic bread. The warm, buttery flavor pairs perfectly with the savory broth, creating a comforting dining experience that you and your loved ones will cherish.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, it freezes well! Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
→ Can I use turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey makes a lighter alternative.
Meatball Soup
Warm up with this hearty and comforting Meatball Soup that's perfect for any occasion. Loaded with juicy meatballs, fresh vegetables, and flavorful broth, this dish is a wholesome family favorite that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Quick to prepare and packed with nutrients, it’s an ideal weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Family Comfort Meals
Skill Level: easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Soup
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into meatballs.
In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add meatballs and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, add beef broth, carrots, celery, onion, tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Return meatballs to the pot. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 30g