There’s something so comforting about a steaming bowl of meatball soup, don’t you think? It’s like a warm hug on a chilly evening! This soup is packed with rich flavors from the savory meatballs and the fresh burst of vegetables. When I make this dish, it instantly transports me back to cozy nights spent with family, gathered around the table, laughing and savoring every spoonful. The unique blend of tender meatballs, hearty beef broth, and vibrant veggies creates a symphony of flavors that warms the soul. Trust me, once you take your first bite, you’ll understand why this has become a staple in my kitchen. So, grab your apron, and let’s dive into this deliciously satisfying recipe that’s perfect for any night of the week!
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
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup chopped spinach
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Make sure to measure everything accurately for the best results! I like to have all my ingredients prepped and ready to go before I start cooking. It makes the process smoother and more enjoyable! Just remember to dice your veggies evenly so they cook at the same rate. Happy cooking!
How to Prepare Meatball Soup
Now, let’s get down to the good stuff! Preparing this meatball soup is a breeze, and I promise you’ll feel like a pro in no time. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a hearty, delicious soup that warms the heart and fills the belly. Ready? Let’s go!
Forming the Meatballs
First up, we need to make those delicious meatballs! In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. I like to use my hands for this part; it really helps to mix everything together thoroughly. You want to achieve a slightly sticky texture, so don’t be afraid to get in there! Once combined, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. This size ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy. Place them on a plate and set aside while we prep the pot.
Sautéing the Vegetables
Next, let’s build flavor by sautéing our vegetables! In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, toss in the diced carrots and celery. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and start to release their natural sweetness. This step is crucial because it really enhances the flavor of the soup. You want the veggies to be tender but not mushy, so keep an eye on them. Once they’re just right, we can move on to the next step!
Simmering the Soup
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the diced tomatoes and beef broth to the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil—this is where the magic happens! Once boiling, carefully return the meatballs to the pot. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes. This simmering phase allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom!
Final Touches and Serving
After your soup has simmered, it’s time for the final flourish! Add the chopped spinach to the pot and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes, just until it wilts. This not only adds a lovely pop of color but also boosts the nutrition. When serving, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for that finishing touch. You can also add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan on top if you’re feeling indulgent! Trust me; this soup is not just a meal; it’s a warm, inviting experience that you’ll crave time and time again.
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying a hearty bowl of meatball soup, it’s nice to know what you’re getting in terms of nutrition! Here are some estimated values per serving, based on the ingredients we’ve used:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and measurements. It’s a satisfying and nutritious option that doesn’t skimp on flavor, making it perfect for a cozy meal!
Variations on Meatball Soup
One of the best things about meatball soup is how versatile it can be! If you’re looking to switch things up, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option that still delivers on flavor. For a vegetarian twist, plant-based meatballs made from lentils or chickpeas can be a delicious substitute, paired with vegetable broth for a wholesome experience. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your vegetables too! You can add in diced zucchini, bell peppers, or even mushrooms for an earthy touch. If you’re in the mood for a little extra spice, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika to the mix. The possibilities are endless, and each variation brings its own unique character to this comforting dish!
Tips for Success
To ensure your meatball soup turns out perfectly every time, here are some key tips to keep in mind! First, for the best meatball texture, don’t overmix the ingredients; just combine them until everything is evenly distributed. This helps keep your meatballs tender and not too dense. When it comes to seasoning the broth, taste as you go! Since beef broth can vary in saltiness, adjust with extra herbs like thyme or basil to enhance the flavor profile without over-salting. Also, consider using fresh vegetables; they add a wonderful crunch and vibrant flavor. If you’re in a rush, frozen veggies are a great alternative—just be sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess water in your soup. Finally, let your soup sit for a few minutes before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making every spoonful even more satisfying!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? No problem! Storing your meatball soup properly will keep it tasting just as delicious for days to come. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Just be sure to portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. If the soup looks a little thick after reheating, feel free to add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency. And there you have it—comfort in a bowl, ready to enjoy again!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—ready in just 45 minutes!
- Hearty, comforting flavors that warm you from the inside out.
- Versatile with ingredients—customize with your favorite proteins and veggies.
- Nutritious and satisfying, with a perfect balance of protein and fiber.
- Ideal for meal prep, making it great for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
Meatball Soup: 5 Steps to a Cozy Comfort Dish
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A hearty and flavorful meatball soup that combines rich broth with tender meatballs and fresh vegetables.
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
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup chopped spinach
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into small meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown meatballs on all sides, then remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add carrots and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add diced tomatoes and beef broth to the pot. Bring to a boil.
- Return meatballs to the pot. Reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- For a vegetarian version, use plant-based meatballs and vegetable broth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: meatball soup, Italian soup, hearty soup, beef broth soup
