The savory aroma of Italian Meatball Soup fills the kitchen, beckoning you to indulge in its comforting embrace. Imagine sinking your spoon into a warm bowl, where tender meatballs swim joyfully in a rich, flavorful broth, dancing alongside fresh vegetables. Swedish meatball soup variation Each spoonful is like a hug from Nonna herself, bringing warmth and happiness on even the dreariest days.
This soup is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that evokes memories of family gatherings and cozy nights by the fire. Perfect for those chilly evenings when all you want is to be wrapped in something delicious, Italian Meatball Soup promises to deliver a flavor explosion that will have your taste buds singing opera! perfect bread bites for soup.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This Italian Meatball Soup features easy preparation with minimal fuss. The robust flavors will have everyone asking for seconds. Its vibrant colors make it inviting and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy it as a dinner centerpiece or a comforting lunch option! [/info_box]
I remember the first time I made this soup; my family devoured it in minutes, leaving me to wonder if I should have made a double batch!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef for juicy meatballs without excess fat.
Breadcrumbs: Use fresh breadcrumbs for better texture; they absorb moisture beautifully.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds bright color and freshness; don’t skip this one!
Eggs: A binder that helps keep meatballs nice and firm while cooking.
Onion: Finely chopped onion gives depth to the flavor; sauté until translucent.
Carrots and Celery: Diced carrots and celery provide crunch and sweetness in the soup.
Canned Tomatoes: Use whole peeled tomatoes for rich flavor; crush them before adding to the pot.
Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness while enhancing flavor.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings an authentic Italian flair to the dish.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated cheese adds a nutty finish; sprinkle generously on top before serving.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Preparing The Meatballs
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, eggs, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until just combined—don’t overwork it or your meatballs will turn tough!
Shaping The Meatballs
Using your hands, form small balls about two inches wide. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. For even cooking, try not to let them touch each other. Bake for about 20 minutes until golden brown.
Sautéing The Vegetables
While the meatballs bake, heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened and fragrant—about 5-7 minutes—making sure everything turns into a colorful medley.
Building The Soup Base
Once your veggies are tender, stir in crushed canned tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring it all to a gentle simmer while scraping any bits stuck to the bottom of the pot—the flavor is there!
Adding The Meatballs
Carefully add your baked meatballs into the simmering soup base. Let them cook together for about 10-15 minutes so they soak up all those delicious flavors. turkey meatballs in sauce.
Final Touches
Taste your soup and adjust seasoning if needed; maybe add more salt or pepper! Before serving, mix in grated Parmesan cheese for an extra creamy touch—your taste buds will thank you! creamy pasta soup recipe.
Now that you’ve created this delightful masterpiece of Italian Meatball Soup, grab your favorite bowl and enjoy every hearty bite! It’s not just food; it’s love served in a bowl! For more inspiration, check out this Cozy One Pot Ravioli Soup recipe.
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Italian Meatball Soup is a hearty dish that warms the soul and fills the belly. This recipe combines rich flavors and textures, making it a family favorite. The aroma of simmering broth and herbs will make your kitchen feel like a cozy Italian bistro. [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the meatballs in a skillet, then add vegetables and broth to simmer for depth.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in your favorite greens or pasta types to customize this comforting soup uniquely.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve flavors.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] Using fresh herbs elevates the flavor of Italian Meatball Soup, making it taste restaurant-quality. Ensure meatballs are evenly sized for even cooking, while adding a dash of red pepper flakes gives it a delightful kick. [/info_box]
Cooking this Italian Meatball Soup always reminds me of family gatherings where laughter filled our home alongside the delicious aroma wafting from the kitchen.
FAQ
What type of meat works best for meatballs?
Use a mix of ground beef and pork for juicy, flavorful meatballs that won’t dry out.
Can I use frozen meatballs in this soup?
Absolutely! Just add them directly without thawing for a convenient shortcut.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
Replace meatballs with lentils or chickpeas and use vegetable broth for a hearty alternative.
Italian Meatball Soup
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the warmth of Italian Meatball Soup, where tender meatballs swim in a rich, savory broth alongside vibrant vegetables. This heartwarming dish is perfect for chilly evenings, evoking memories of family gatherings and laughter around the dinner table. With each spoonful, you’ll experience a symphony of flavors that will soothe your soul and satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 large egg
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 28 oz can whole peeled tomatoes (crushed)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, parsley, egg, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until just combined.
- Shape mixture into meatballs about 2 inches wide and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown.
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté onions, carrots, and celery in olive oil for 5-7 minutes until soft.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth; bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add baked meatballs to the pot and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Before serving, stir in grated Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking and Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
