Introduction to Meatball Soup
Why Meatball Soup is the Ultimate Comfort Food
When it comes to the world of comfort food, meatball soup holds a special place in many hearts and homes. Imagine a warm bowl brimming with savory meatballs, nourishing vegetables, and delightful ditalini pasta, all swimming in a rich, tomato-based broth. It’s a symphony of flavors that not only warms the body but also soothes the soul.
There’s a reason why dishes like this have stood the test of time. According to culinary experts, the combination of protein from the meatballs and the diversity of the veggies creates a balanced meal, packed with nutrients that keep you energized and satisfied. And let’s not forget how easy it is to make! In just about an hour, you can whip up a hearty batch that serves six—perfect for busy weekdays or cozy weekends.
Gather around the table with friends or family, share a laugh, and savor the heartwarming flavors of this meatball soup. Whether you’re reminiscing about childhood dinners or creating new memories, this recipe is bound to be a hit. Curious about how to make it? Let’s get started!
Ingredients for Meatball Soup
Essential ingredients for the perfect meatball soup
To create a comforting meatball soup that warms the soul, start with these essential ingredients:
- Lean ground beef: Aim for 90-93% lean for a flavorful yet not overly fatty meatball.
- Panko bread crumbs: These add a nice texture to the meatballs, ensuring they remain tender.
- Parmesan cheese: Not just for topping! It enhances the flavor within the meatballs.
- Fresh herbs: Parsley and basil are perfect for brightening up the dish.
- An array of vegetables: Onion, carrots, and celery offer a savory base, while garlic adds depth.
- Tomato products: Crushed and diced tomatoes bring a rich, comforting texture.
Substitutions and alternatives
Don't fret if you’re missing something! Here are some smart substitutions:
- Ground beef: Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Pasta: If ditalini isn’t available, any small pasta like macaroni or orzo works well.
- Broth: Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian twist.
Feel free to explore and adapt this recipe to suit your taste buds! You can find more cooking tips and expert advice through resources like The Kitchn or Serious Eats. Happy cooking!
Step-by-step Preparation of Meatball Soup
Getting cozy with a warm bowl of meatball soup is one of the simple joys in life. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you navigate the straightforward preparation process. Let’s dig right in!
Gather and Prepare the Ingredients
Before diving into cooking, it’s essential to gather everything you need. Here’s what you’ll require for making approximately 13 cups of delicious meatball soup:
- 1 lb of 90 to 93% lean ground beef
- ½ cup panko bread crumbs
- ½ cup finely shredded parmesan cheese
- 6 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (divided)
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning (divided)
- ½ teaspoon each of salt and black pepper (plus more for the soup)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 1 ½ cups chopped yellow onion
- 1 cup diced carrots (about 2 medium)
- ¾ cup thinly sliced celery (about 2 medium ribs)
- 1 ½ tablespoons minced garlic (4 cloves)
- 3 (14.5 oz) cans low-sodium chicken broth (5 ¼ cups)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (14.5 oz) can petite diced tomatoes
- 1 cup dry ditalini pasta
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Pro Tip: Having everything laid out makes cooking seamless!
Make the Meatball Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, panko, parmesan cheese, egg, 2 tablespoons parsley, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until just combined—the key to tender meatballs is to avoid overworking the mixture.
Using a cookie scoop (about 1 tablespoon), shape the mixture into rounds and place them on a tray or cutting board.
Brown the Meatballs
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Carefully add the meatballs once the oil is hot. Cook until they are golden brown on each side (around 2 minutes per side). Transfer the meatballs to a plate and set aside—this browning adds a deep flavor to your meatball soup!
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot you used for the meatballs, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté the mixture for 8 to 9 minutes until they are just tender. Add the minced garlic and let it sauté for another minute. The wonderful aroma will make your kitchen feel inviting!
Combine and Simmer
Now, it’s time to add some homemade goodness! Pour in the chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and the remaining teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring this delicious mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat.
Add Pasta and Finish the Soup
Once simmering, add the browned meatballs back in along with the ditalini pasta. Reduce the heat to medium-low and allow the soup to simmer until the pasta is tender (about 13 to 15 minutes). This is where the magic happens!
Finally, stir in the fresh parsley and basil off the heat. If the soup thickens up too much, feel free to add more chicken broth. Serve with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for that extra touch!
Embrace the warmth of this meatball soup recipe and enjoy the satisfaction of cooking from scratch! For more tips on creating hearty soups, check out sources like The New York Times Cooking and Serious Eats. Happy cooking!
Variations on Meatball Soup
Turkish-style Meatball Soup
Travel through flavors with a Turkish twist on classic meatball soup. Known as "Köfte Çorbası," this version features aromatic spices like cumin and coriander, giving the broth a warm depth. It often includes chickpeas and diced potatoes for a heartier bite. Experiment with fresh herbs like mint or dill and serve with a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness. You can explore more about Turkish cooking at Turkish Food Travel for inspiration.
Vegetarian Meatball Soup Options
If you're looking to embrace a plant-based diet, you can create delicious vegetarian meatball soup alternatives. Use lentils, quinoa, or chickpeas to form your meatballs, spiced with garlic and herbs for flavor. Add assorted vegetables like kale, bell peppers, and zucchini to the broth, which complements the savory custard texture of the veggie meatballs. A fantastic resource for innovative vegetarian recipes is Minimalist Baker, where you can find ideas to jive with your tastes.
Whichever variation you choose, meatball soup is a dish that invites creativity and warmth to your table.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Meatball Soup
How to Ensure Tender Meatballs
Achieving tender meatballs is all about balance. When mixing your meatball ingredients, don’t overwork the meat—this can lead to tough results. A gentle hand when mixing is key! Using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs helps create a lighter texture, allowing your meatballs to remain soft and juicy.
Tips for Thickening or Thinning the Soup
If your meatball soup is too thick, simply add more broth to reach your desired consistency. Stir in the broth gradually for best results. To thicken the soup, consider simmering it longer to reduce excess liquid or adding a cornstarch slurry for instant thickness. Remember, the soup will thicken more as it cools, so adjust accordingly. For more tips, check out resources from the USDA and Bon Appétit.
Serving Suggestions for Meatball Soup
Perfect accompaniments
Enhancing your meatball soup experience starts with choosing the right sides. A fresh green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette pairs beautifully, balancing the rich flavors of the soup. You might also consider serving crusty bread or warm garlic knots for dipping, which adds a comforting touch. For a fun twist, offer a charcuterie board featuring turkey bacon, chicken ham, and various cheeses—perfect for snacking while your soup simmers.
Creative garnishes
Garnishing your meatball soup can elevate its presentation and flavor. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds vibrant color and a burst of freshness. For a gourmet twist, consider drizzling a bit of high-quality olive oil or a dollop of pesto on top right before serving. Grated parmesan cheese also works wonders, enhancing the savory experience. A dash of red pepper flakes provides a subtle kick for those who like a bit of heat.
For more ideas, check out this article on soup garnishing tips to spark your creativity!
Time Breakdown for Meatball Soup
Preparation Time
Getting everything ready for your meatball soup is a breeze! You'll spend about 30 minutes chopping vegetables and mixing the meatball ingredients.
Cooking Time
Once you start cooking, it’ll take around 30 minutes to bring everything together. Just enough time to enjoy some relaxing music while you wait!
Total Time
In just 1 hour, you'll have a warm, comforting pot of meatball soup ready to serve six hearty bowls. Perfect for a busy weeknight!
For more insightful tips on cooking techniques, check out Serious Eats. Explore variations and personal touches you can add to your soup for extra flavor!
Nutritional Facts for Meatball Soup
Calories per serving
Each serving of this hearty meatball soup contains approximately 320 calories. It’s a comforting dish that fills you up without overwhelming your daily caloric needs.
Key vitamins and nutrients
This delicious soup is packed with key nutrients, including protein from lean ground beef and vitamins A and C from fresh vegetables. The added herbs contribute antioxidants, while the ditalini pasta provides energy-rich carbohydrates.
Serving size information
The recipe yields about 6 generous servings, making it perfect for family meals or meal prep. Each bowl is brimming with flavor while keeping your nutrition on point. Want to learn more about the benefits of soup in your diet? Check out the Nutritional Benefits of Soup for insights!
Enjoy your cooking, and remember, each bowl is not just a meal, but a cozy experience!
FAQs about Meatball Soup
Can I freeze meatball soup?
Absolutely! Meatball soup is freezer-friendly, making it perfect for meal prep. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave when you're ready to enjoy it again!
How do I store leftovers?
To store your leftover meatball soup, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you're concerned about the pasta soaking up too much broth, consider storing the pasta separately or adding it fresh when reheating.
What can I add to meatball soup for extra flavor?
There are plenty of ways to elevate the flavor of your meatball soup! Consider incorporating fresh herbs like thyme or oregano, a splash of lemon juice for brightness, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. You can also experiment with adding greens like spinach or kale for extra nutrition and flavor. For more inspiration, check out Serious Eats for creative variations and tips!
Conclusion on Meatball Soup
Making meatball soup today means treating yourself to a cozy, heartwarming bowl of goodness. Filled with lean beef, wholesome veggies, and ditalini pasta, it's a dish that nourishes both body and soul. Discover the joy of homemade soup—your taste buds will thank you!
Why You Should Make Meatball Soup Today!
If you’re looking for a meal that's both satisfying and simple, meatball soup ticks all the boxes! This recipe is not only easy to follow but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with any leftover vegetables or spices you have on hand, making it a practical choice for busy weeknights.
Imagine coming home after a long day to the inviting aroma of soup simmering on the stove. Not only will your kitchen smell amazing, but you’ll also be enjoying a nutritious meal packed with flavor. As the temperature drops, there's nothing quite like a steaming bowl of meatball soup to warm your soul and lift your spirits.
So, gather your ingredients and get cooking! You’ll find that this dish is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings people together. Whether you’re feeding a family or enjoying a cozy solo night in, this meatball soup is sure to be a hit. For tips on how to store or reheat your leftovers, check out the detailed guides here.
In the end, meatball soup is about comfort, care, and creativity. Make it today and enjoy the deliciousness of a home-cooked meal!
Meatball Soup
Equipment
- large pot
- non-stick skillet
- mixing bowl
- Baking tray
- cookie scoop
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 lb 90 to 93% lean ground beef
- ½ cup panko bread crumbs (1.2 oz)
- ½ cup finely shredded parmesan cheese (1 oz), plus more for serving
- 6 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley divided
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoon Italian seasoning divided
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Soup Base
- 2 tablespoon olive oil divided
- 1 ½ cups chopped yellow onion
- 1 cup diced carrots (2 medium)
- ¾ cup thinly sliced celery (2 medium ribs)
- 1 ½ tablespoon minced garlic (4 cloves)
- 3 14.5 oz cans low-sodium chicken broth (5 ¼ cups), plus more to thin if desired
- 1 14.5 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 1 14.5 oz can petite diced tomatoes
- 1 cup dry ditalini pasta (4.5 oz)
- 3 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
Instructions
Prepare Meatballs
- In a mixing bowl toss together beef, panko, parmesan, egg, 2 tablespoon parsley, the Italian seasoning, salt and pepper. Break up the beef as you toss to evenly combine ingredients, just don't over-work the mixture so meatballs stay tender.
- Scoop mixture out just over 1 tablespoon at a time and shape into rounds. Set them on a baking tray or cutting board as you work.
Cook Soup
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery and saute 8 to 9 minutes until almost tender. Add garlic and saute 1 minute longer.
- Meanwhile drizzle remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a 12-inch non-stick skillet and heat over medium-high heat. Add meatballs once heated and cook until golden brown on top and bottom, about 2 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate.
- To the sauteed vegetable mixture add chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, remaining 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat.
- Add meatballs and pasta, reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until pasta is tender, stirring occasionally, about 13 to 15 minutes.
- Off heat, stir in remaining 4 tablespoon parsley and the basil. Thin soup with more broth as needed. Top individual servings with shredded parmesan cheese to taste.
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