Description
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
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg