Meatball Soup Recipe

Introduction

There’s something inherently comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s loaded with hearty meatballs and vibrant vegetables. This Meatball Soup recipe has quickly become a family favorite in our home. On chilly nights, the aroma wafting through the kitchen invites everyone to gather around the table. My kids love the tender meatballs, and the rich broth paired with pasta makes for a satisfying meal. It’s a dish that not only warms the belly but also the heart, as we share stories over steaming bowls of goodness. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this soup delivers on both flavor and comfort.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef
• ¼ cup finely minced yellow onions
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ⅓ cup Italian or plain breadcrumbs
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, for browning

For the Soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 3 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 ½ cups green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch segments
• 1 ½ teaspoons dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• 6 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) fire-roasted tomatoes
• ¾ cup pasta (mini farfalle, ditalini, acini de pepe, or orzo)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, minced onions, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. They don’t need to be cooked through, as they will finish cooking in the soup. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Make the Soup

1. In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
2. Add the green beans, dried parsley, oregano, basil, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the seasonings and cook for another 2 minutes.
3. Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and fire-roasted tomatoes. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

Add Meatballs and Pasta

1. Gently add the browned meatballs back into the soup. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the meatballs to cook through.
2. Stir in the pasta of your choice. Continue to simmer for 8-10 minutes or until the pasta is tender. (If using a quick-cooking pasta like orzo, check around 7 minutes to avoid overcooking.)

Season and Serve

1. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and enjoy hot!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
• Total Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 90mg
• Sodium: 750mg
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g
• Protein: 20g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve the soup hot in large bowls.
• Garnish with fresh parsley for added color and flavor.
• Pair with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Offer grated Parmesan cheese on the side for extra flavor.

Additional Tips

1. Meat Options: You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
2. Herbs: Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor. Use fresh parsley or basil instead of dried if available.
3. Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for added nutrition and variety.
4. Pasta Alternatives: If you prefer gluten-free options, use gluten-free pasta or omit it altogether and serve the soup over rice.
5. Make Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time and reheated, as the flavors continue to develop overnight.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Meatball Soup: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the soup for a spicy kick.
• Italian Meatball Soup: Include Italian seasoning and use diced tomatoes with Italian herbs for a richer flavor profile.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving for a creamier texture.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside a warm baguette or garlic bread for dipping.
• Complement with a side salad, such as Caesar or mixed greens, for a light and refreshing contrast.
• Pair with a glass of red wine, like Chianti, to enhance the comforting flavors of the soup.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen meatballs instead?
   Yes, you can use pre-cooked frozen meatballs. Just add them to the soup during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking to heat through.
2. What can I substitute for beef broth?
   Chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used as alternatives.
3. How can I thicken the soup?
   For a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans or vegetables in the soup or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.
4. Is this soup gluten-free?
   Use gluten-free pasta and check the breadcrumbs in the meatballs to ensure they are gluten-free.
5. Can I add cheese to the soup?
   Yes! Adding grated cheese during the last few minutes of cooking can create a creamy, cheesy soup.
6. How do I store leftovers?
   Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
7. Can I use canned vegetables?
   Yes, canned vegetables can be used, but be sure to drain them and adjust cooking times as needed.
8. Is this soup spicy?
   It’s not spicy, but you can add spices or hot sauce to adjust the heat level to your preference.
9. How do I know when the meatballs are done?
   Meatballs should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
10. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
    Yes! Substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth and omit the meatballs, or replace them with vegetarian meatballs.

Conclusion

This Meatball Soup recipe is a true comfort food classic that brings warmth and joy to any table. It’s perfect for cozy nights at home or as a hearty dish to share with friends and family. The combination of tender meatballs, fresh vegetables, and flavorful broth makes this soup a winner in every season. Whether you stick to the traditional ingredients or make your own variations, each bowl promises satisfaction and a smile. So gather your loved ones, ladle out some delicious soup, and enjoy the comforting flavors that will warm your heart.

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