Italian Meatball Soup – A Hearty Hug in a Bowl
You know those recipes that wrap you up like a warm, fuzzy blanket on a cold day? Italain Meatball Soup is one of those for me! It’s a delicious concoction that brings together the magic of homemade meatballs, vibrant vegetables, and cozy broth. There’s something special about gathering around the dinner table with a pot of this savory delight, reminiscing about good times and even better food.
My earliest memories of this soup date back to my childhood, watching my grandmother whip up a batch on chilly Sundays. The smell of garlic and simmering tomatoes would waft through the house, making it impossible to concentrate on anything else – like homework! This soup isn’t just food; it’s a full experience, and I’m excited to share that with you today!
What’s in Italian Meatball Soup?
– 500g ground beef or a mix of beef and pork: This forms the hearty base of your meatballs. I often use a 50/50 mix. It adds flavor and keeps them juicy!
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs together. I like using Italian breadcrumbs for an extra kick of flavor.
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Because who doesn’t love a little extra cheesy goodness? It adds a wonderful depth to the meatballs.
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Fresh herbs brighten everything up. Plus, it gives those meatballs a lovely overall look!
– 1 egg: This is our glue—without it, the meatballs would fall apart quicker than a kid at their first school dance.
– 2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic makes everything better, right? It adds a perfect aromatic touch.
– 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper: Simple but essential! Adjust to your taste.
– 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning: Because a little spice never hurts!
– 1 tbsp olive oil: A little drizzle will help our meatballs brown beautifully.
– 1 onion, chopped: This adds a soft sweetness to our base.
– 2 carrots, diced: For that natural sweetness and a pop of color.
– 2 celery stalks, diced: Adds a nice crunch and depth to the flavor.
– 4 cloves garlic, minced: Yes, more garlic. Always.
– 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes: These bring a lush, rich heartiness to our soup.
– 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth: This is what binds everything together. I always opt for low-sodium versions to control the flavor.
– 1 cup small pasta (like rotini): Al-dente pasta is a must. It soaks up all that flavor!
– 1 tsp dried basil and 1 tsp dried oregano: Herbaceous goodness to take the soup to the next flavor level!
– 2 cups fresh spinach or kale: Because, you know, we have to get our greens in!
– Salt and pepper to taste: Just a little extra to make it perfect.
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving: Finally, the pièce de résistance!
– Fresh basil for garnish (optional): A little something to dress it up, if you fancy.
Is Italian Meatball Soup Good for You?
Oh, you bet it is! This Italian Meatball Soup not only warms your heart but also has a few health perks. The ground beef or pork serves as a source of protein and iron, essential for a healthy body. The spinach or kale adds a punch of vitamins A and C, ensuring we feel our absolute best. Meanwhile, the diced tomatoes provide a dose of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.
Now, let’s keep it real; if you’re watching your sodium intake, be mindful of the added salt and use low-sodium broth. You can always adjust the seasonings to fit your dietary preferences. You might choose to swap in some lean turkey for the meatballs if you’re looking for a lighter option. Overall, this soup feels indulgent without the guilt!
Ingredients List
– 500g ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 egg
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
– 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup small pasta (such as rotini)
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
– Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
How to Make Italian Meatball Soup?
1. **Make the Meatballs**: In a bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well and form small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
2. **Cook the Meatballs**: In a large pot, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, cooking until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. **Prepare the Soup Base**: In the same pot, add more olive oil if needed. Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. **Add Tomatoes and Broth**: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and the broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. **Cook the Pasta**: Add the pasta to the pot and cook until al dente, according to package instructions.
6. **Combine Meatballs and Greens**: Gently add the meatballs back into the pot along with the spinach or kale. Allow to simmer for another 5 minutes or until the greens are wilted and the meatballs are heated through.
7. **Season**: Add dried basil, dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. **Serve**: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.
Soup-er Tips and Tricks for Making Italian Meatball Soup!
– This soup is hearty and can be served with crusty bread to soak up all the delicious broth. Trust me, it’s a game changer!
– Feel free to get creative with your vegetables! Throw in some zucchini or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. You can even add a can of beans for an extra protein kick.
– If you have leftovers (which might be a challenge because it’s so delicious!), you can store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just remember, the soup may thicken as it sits, so adding a bit of broth or water when reheating can help.
– You can also make the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them. Then just add them to the soup as it simmers for a quick meal on busy nights.
I can’t wait for you to churn out your batch of Italian Meatball Soup! Get ready for a flavorful ride that’s sure to impress anyone at your dinner table. Don’t forget to share your culinary success and let me know how it turned out for you! Happy cooking!
