Italian Meatball Soup Recipe

This Italian Meatball Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight meal. Tender meatballs simmered in a rich and flavorful broth with a medley of vegetables and spices, it’s a satisfying and classic soup that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious soup:

For the Meatballs:

• Ground beef: Extra lean for a healthier option.
• Onion: Chopped or shredded, for flavor and texture.
• Garlic: Minced, for aromatic depth.
• Italian seasoning: Adds a blend of classic Italian herbs.
• Egg: Helps bind the meatball ingredients together.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.
• Parmesan cheese: Grated, adds a salty and nutty flavor to the meatballs.

For the Soup:

• Olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables.
• Onion, carrots, and celery: Chopped, for flavor, texture, and color.
• Garlic: Minced, for aromatic depth.
• Beef broth: Low sodium, forms the base of the flavorful soup.
• Water: Thins the soup to the desired consistency.
• Diced tomatoes: Adds sweetness and acidity.
• Cannellini beans: Drained and rinsed, adds protein and a hearty texture.
• Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning: For seasoning the soup.
• Parmesan cheese: For sprinkling over the top and adding a salty and nutty flavor.

How to Make Italian Meatball Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine all of the meatball ingredients: ground beef, chopped or shredded onion, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, egg, salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well with your hands until all the ingredients are evenly distributed. Shape the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. Place the meatballs on a plate and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Soup

Pour the beef broth and water into the pot, followed by the diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Cook the Meatballs

Add the meatballs to the boiling soup, one at a time. Once all the meatballs are in the pot, reduce the heat to medium, cover the pot, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.

Step 5: Serve

Once the meatballs are cooked through, remove the pot from the heat. Ladle the soup into individual bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve Italian Meatball Soup

• Cozy Weeknight Meal: This Italian Meatball Soup is perfect for a warm and satisfying weeknight dinner.
• Party Food: Serve it in small bowls or mugs for a fun and festive party appetizer.
• Lunchbox Friendly: Pack leftovers for a delicious and convenient lunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing:

You can freeze the soup in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage instead of ground beef.

Can I make this soup vegetarian? Yes, you can omit the meatballs and add more vegetables, such as lentils, beans, or a plant-based meat substitute.

Can I add other vegetables to this soup? Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables, such as diced zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms.

How can I make this soup spicier? Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup while simmering.

There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Italian Meatball Soup that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

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