There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of meatball soup to wrap you in a cozy hug, is there? I remember the first time I made this recipe; it was a chilly evening, and I was craving something hearty and comforting. As the rich aroma filled my kitchen, I couldn’t help but feel like a culinary wizard! This meatball soup is my go-to for those laid-back weeknights or when I want to impress friends without any fuss. It’s so simple, even beginners can whip it up with ease. Trust me, you’ll be amazed at how quickly you can create this delicious dish that warms your heart and soul!

Ingredients List

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to making this delightful meatball soup! You’ll need:

• 1 pound ground beef – this will be the star of your meatballs, bringing rich flavor.
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs – they help hold everything together and add a nice texture.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese – for that savory, cheesy goodness.
• 1 egg – it binds your meatball mixture beautifully.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – because who doesn’t love the aroma of garlic?
• 1 teaspoon salt – a must for enhancing all those wonderful flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – just a hint of spice!
• 4 cups beef broth – this creates the luscious soup base.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – for a burst of freshness and acidity.
• 1 cup carrots, sliced – they add sweetness and a pop of color.
• 1 cup celery, chopped – for that lovely crunch.
• 1 cup pasta (small shapes) – my favorite part that makes it hearty!
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – for browning those meatballs to perfection.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – because we eat with our eyes first!

Now that you have everything ready, you’re just a few steps away from a delicious bowl of comfort! Let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare Meatball Soup

Now that you’ve got your ingredients all lined up, let’s dive into making this delicious meatball soup! I promise, it’s easier than you think!

Making the Meatballs

First, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Use your hands (it’s messy, but fun!) to mix everything together until just combined. You don’t want to overwork the meat. Once it’s mixed, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a plate as you go, and don’t worry if they’re not all perfectly round—homemade is all about charm!

Browning the Meatballs

Next up, let’s get those meatballs browned! Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot, gently place your meatballs in the pot, making sure not to overcrowd them. This is super important; if you crowd the pot, they won’t brown well. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning them occasionally until they’re golden brown on all sides. Use a spoon to stir gently – you don’t want to break them apart!

Cooking the Soup

Once your meatballs are beautifully browned, it’s time to make soup magic happen! Carefully add the beef broth and diced tomatoes to the pot, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Then, toss in the sliced carrots, chopped celery, and pasta. Stir everything together and let it come back to a boil. After that, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes. This is when the veggies become tender, and the pasta cooks to perfection, soaking up all those savory flavors. Wow, the aroma will be irresistible!

Tips for Success

To make sure your meatball soup turns out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips! First, don’t forget to taste your broth before adding too much salt; you can always adjust the seasoning later. If your soup is too thick, just add a splash more beef broth or water to lighten it up. When shaping your meatballs, try not to pack them too tightly; this keeps them tender. Also, remember to let them brown without flipping too often – patience is key! And if you want to add more veggies, feel free to throw in some spinach or peas at the end for a pop of color and nutrition. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Variations of Meatball Soup

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up this meatball soup! For a different flavor, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef—it’s lighter but still delicious. You can also mix in some Italian sausage for an extra kick! When it comes to veggies, feel free to toss in zucchini, bell peppers, or even some spinach for added nutrition and color. Want to switch up the herbs? Fresh basil or oregano can really elevate the taste. And if you’re in the mood for something spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes! The possibilities are endless, so have fun experimenting!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutrition in your delicious meatball soup! Each serving (about 1 bowl) contains approximately 350 calories, 15g of fat, 25g of protein, and 30g of carbohydrates. Keep in mind these values are estimates and can vary based on your specific ingredients. It’s a hearty meal that’s not just comforting but also packs a nutritious punch!

FAQ Section

Can I make meatball soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

What can I use instead of beef broth?
If you prefer, you can use chicken broth or vegetable broth for a different flavor. Each option gives a unique twist to the soup!

Can I freeze meatball soup?
Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It should be good for about 2-3 months.

What should I serve with meatball soup?
I love pairing this soup with crusty bread or a fresh side salad. They make for a perfect, comforting meal!

How do I prevent my meatballs from falling apart?
The key is to mix the ingredients gently and not overcrowd the pot when browning. Also, make sure your meatballs are well-formed before cooking!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying your hearty meatball soup, there are some delightful companions that can really elevate the meal! I love serving it alongside a slice of crusty bread or a warm baguette—perfect for dipping into that flavorful broth. A fresh garden salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that pairs beautifully with the soup. If you’re feeling a bit indulgent, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top of the soup before serving is always a hit! And don’t forget a nice glass of red wine or a fizzy sparkling water to wash it all down. Cheers to a delicious meal!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing leftover meatball soup is super easy! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container and leave a little space at the top, as it will expand when frozen. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave it in a bowl, just be careful not to splatter! Enjoy your cozy soup again!

Meatball Soup: 7 Steps to Cozy and Delicious Comfort

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• Author: Julia marin
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Fat

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Description

A hearty and comforting meatball soup perfect for beginners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup carrots, sliced
• 1 cup celery, chopped
• 1 cup pasta (small shapes)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper until combined.
2. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add meatballs and brown them on all sides.
4. Once browned, add beef broth and diced tomatoes to the pot.
5. Add carrots, celery, and pasta. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until vegetables are tender and pasta is cooked.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

• Do not overcrowd the pot when browning meatballs.
• Use a spoon to stir gently to avoid breaking the meatballs.
• Adjust seasoning to your taste.

• 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: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: meatball soup, easy soup recipe, beginner soup recipe