Hearty Meatball Soup Recipe
Warm up your taste buds with our hearty Meatball Soup recipe, perfect for chilly evenings or comforting lunches. Packed with wholesome ingredients and savory flavors, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. From tender meatballs to flavorful broth and colorful vegetables, each spoonful offers a delightful blend of textures and tastes. Join us as we dive into the world of homemade comfort food and discover how to make this delicious Meatball Soup from scratch.
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
- 3 stalks celery, chopped
- 6 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Cook the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the beef or chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring the soup to a simmer.
- Add Meatballs: Carefully drop the meatballs into the simmering soup one by one. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
- Add Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until wilted.
- Season to Taste: Season the soup with salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Serve: Ladle the hot Meatball Soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves before serving.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Extra Flavor: For added flavor, you can sauté the vegetables in bacon fat instead of olive oil.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the meatballs and use vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken broth for a vegetarian version of this soup. You can also add cooked beans or lentils for protein.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of traditional breadcrumbs to make this soup gluten-free.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly: To make this soup keto-friendly, replace the breadcrumbs in the meatballs with almond flour or coconut flour. You can also use a low-carb tomato sauce instead of diced tomatoes.
- Low-Carb Option: Reduce the amount of carrots in the soup to lower the carb content. You can also add more low-carb vegetables like zucchini or cauliflower.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I freeze Meatball Soup? A: Yes, Meatball Soup freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef for the meatballs? A: Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef in the meatballs. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture may be slightly different.
In conclusion, our Meatball Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a warm bowl of soup on a cold winter’s day or looking for an easy weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy. With its tender meatballs, flavorful broth, and nutritious vegetables, it’s a wholesome and satisfying dish that the whole family will love. So gather your ingredients and give this recipe a try – it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
