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Meatball Soup Recipe

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This comforting and hearty Meatball Soup features tender meatballs simmered in a flavorful broth with vegetables and seasonings. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a warming lunch!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)

For the Soup:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 6 cups chicken or beef broth
  • 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/2 cup small pasta (like orzo, ditalini, or small shells)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley or Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Instructions

  • Prepare the Meatballs:
    In a large bowl, mix the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and parsley until combined. Roll the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter) and set aside.
  • Sear the Meatballs:
    Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook until browned on all sides (they don’t need to be fully cooked). Remove and set aside.
  • Cook the Vegetables:
    In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, or until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
  • Simmer the Soup:
    Add the broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), thyme, and smoked paprika (if using). Bring to a simmer. Return the meatballs to the pot and cook for 10–12 minutes.
  • Add Pasta and Greens:
    Stir in the pasta and cook until tender, about 7–10 minutes. If using spinach or kale, stir it in during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking.
  • Season and Serve:
    Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

  • You can use any small pasta for this soup, or even make it without pasta if you prefer a low-carb option.
  • For a heartier version, add extra vegetables like zucchini or green beans.

Nutrition