Meatball Soup: 6 Comforting Ways to Enjoy This Classic Dish

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Meatball Soup is a classic dish that brings warmth and comfort to every bite. This homemade meatball soup recipe combines tender meatballs with pasta, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful broth that is seasoned just right. With wholesome ingredients like onions, carrots, and green beans simmered in a hearty beef broth, this dish is perfect for chilly evenings or any time you crave a heartwarming meal. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful soup!

Why You’ll Love This Meatball Soup

This comforting meatball soup is not just delicious; it also offers numerous benefits. First, it’s a quick and easy meal, ideal for busy weeknights. With only 50 minutes of total time, you can have a homemade dinner ready in no time. Second, this soup is packed with protein from the meatballs, making it a filling option. Third, the variety of vegetables adds essential vitamins and minerals, ensuring a healthy choice. Fourth, you can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients, such as adding meatball soup with vegetables for extra nutrition. Fifth, it’s a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy leftovers throughout the week. Lastly, it’s a cozy comfort food that will remind you of family gatherings and warm kitchens.

Ingredients for Meatball Soup

Gather these items:

1½ 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
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 in one inch segments
1 ½ teaspoon 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 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 (14.5-ounce) can fire-roasted tomatoes
¾ cup Mini Farfalle pasta
chopped fresh parsley
salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Meatball Soup Step-by-Step

Step 1: Gently mix the ground beef, minced yellow onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire Sauce, salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a large bowl. Using a 1½-tablespoon scoop for equal proportioning, roll the meatballs and place them on a baking sheet covered with parchment paper.
Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium to medium-high heat. Add the meatballs to the skillet and brown them. Work in batches and do not crowd the pan. Add more oil if needed. Remove the meatballs to a plate and cover to keep warm.
Step 3: In a large, heavy stockpot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and green beans. Cook for 7-8 minutes or until slightly soft and fragrant. Add the parsley, oregano, basil, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
Step 4: Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and fire-roasted tomatoes. Increase the heat to medium-high. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce it to a simmer. Let everything simmer for about 7-10 minutes. Stir in the pasta and browned meatballs, and simmer for an additional 10 minutes or until the pasta is tender. Serve it promptly, so the pasta does not overcook.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Meatball Soup

Keep these in mind:

Use low-sodium beef broth to control salt levels.
For a healthier option, consider swapping ground beef for turkey or chicken.
Try adding some leafy greens like spinach or kale for an additional nutrient boost.
For spicy meatball soup variations, add red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce.
Make sure not to overcook the pasta; add it towards the end of cooking.

Best Ways to Serve Meatball Soup

There are several delightful ways to enjoy your meatball soup. First, serve it with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor. Second, pair it with crusty bread for dipping; it complements the broth perfectly. Lastly, consider a side salad for a complete meal that balances the heartiness of the soup.

How to Store and Reheat Meatball Soup

To store your meatball soup, let it cool and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For meal prep, make a larger batch and freeze portions for later use. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little extra broth if needed to loosen it up.

Frequently Asked Questions About Meatball Soup

What’s the secret to perfect Meatball Soup?

The secret lies in balancing flavors and textures. Use quality ingredients like fresh vegetables and seasonings, and ensure your meatballs are juicy but not overcooked. The right broth adds depth, making your meatball broth a key player in this dish.

Can I make Meatball Soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup is great for meal prep. You can make it a day in advance; just store it in the fridge. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, enhancing the overall taste.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Meatball Soup?

Avoid overcooking the pasta by adding it towards the end of the cooking process. Also, ensure your broth is flavorful; a bland broth will lead to a lackluster soup. Using quality meat and fresh spices will enhance the overall taste of your homemade meatball soup recipe.

Variations of Meatball Soup You Can Try

There are countless ways to customize your meatball soup. Try adding different proteins like turkey for a lighter twist or use veggie meatballs for a plant-based option. For those who love a kick, consider making a spicy meatball soup by incorporating chili peppers. You can also create a meatball soup with rice instead of pasta for a heartier meal. Lastly, a slow cooker meatball soup version allows for easy preparation and deep flavor development.