Introduction to Meatball Soup
Why Meatball Soup is the Ultimate Comfort Food
If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s as cozy as a warm blanket on a chilly evening, look no further than meatball soup. This delightful concoction brings all the benefits of a hearty meal without the fuss, making it a winner for any weeknight dinner.
What sets meatball soup apart is its comforting combination of tender meatballs simmered in a flavorful broth. It’s a dish that envelops you with its rich aromas, beckoning you to gather around the table with family or friends. The tomato-based soup is not just tasty; it’s packed with essential ingredients like spinach and bell peppers, making it a nutritious choice as well.
Plus, the best part? You can whip it up in under 90 minutes! This recipe is flexible—you can personalize it with your favorite spices or even swap in different types of meat. Whether it's a rainy day or a weekend gathering, meatball soup is sure to please everyone. So grab your apron and let’s dive into this ultimate comfort food recipe that’s destined to become a family favorite!
For more comforting recipes, check out this article on hearty soups.
Ingredients for Meatball Soup
Essential ingredients for a flavorful meatball soup
Creating a rich and comforting meatball soup requires a balance of wholesome ingredients. Let's break down what you'll need to bring this dish to life.
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Meatballs: Start with a blend of ground beef and ground pork. This combination adds depth and tenderness to your meatballs. You'll also need a beaten egg, heavy cream (or milk), and Italian breadcrumbs to bind everything together. Don’t forget garlic and Parmesan cheese for that scrumptious flavor kick.
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Soup Base: A savory foundation is key! You’ll need chicken broth, beef broth, and diced tomatoes (preferably undrained) for a rich tomato base. Add in bell peppers and onion to enhance sweetness and texture.
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Seasonings: Use a blend of dried oregano, basil, and parsley for that Italian flair. A touch of Worcestershire sauce and red pepper flakes adds just the right zing.
Getting these ingredients together is the first step to crafting a hearty meal that warms the soul! For additional tips on selecting the best meats, consider visiting this guide on choosing ground meat.
Step-by-Step Preparation of Meatball Soup
Cooking up a delightful bowl of meatball soup is not only satisfying but also a wonderful way to warm up on a chilly evening. Let’s dive into the process, making this hearty dish simple and approachable!
Prepare the meatball mixture
The first step in creating {meatball soup} is to make the meatballs. In a large mixing bowl, combine one beaten egg with half a cup of heavy cream, stirring them together until well-blended. This combination, often called a "panade," helps to keep the meatballs tender and flavorful. Next, add half a cup of Italian breadcrumbs and a quarter cup of finely grated Parmesan cheese, along with three minced garlic cloves, one teaspoon of salt, and half a teaspoon of pepper.
Now, it’s time for the stars of the show: the meats! Gently mix in half a pound each of ground beef and ground pork until everything is just combined. Be cautious not to overwork the mixture, as this can lead to tough meatballs. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and set them aside while you heat the olive oil in your cooking pot over medium-high heat.
Brown the meatballs
In batches, add the meatballs to the hot oil, allowing them to brown for about 2-3 minutes on each side. This step creates a delicious crust and infuses your soup with rich flavors. As they cook, don’t hesitate to add a splash of oil if needed. Remember, the meatballs will finish cooking later in the soup, so don’t worry if they aren’t completely done just yet.
Once browned, remove the meatballs from the pot and set them aside.
Sauté the vegetables
With the meatballs out of the pot, it’s time to focus on the base of your soup. Melt one tablespoon of butter in the same pot, then add one diced yellow onion. Cook this for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This caramelization process enhances the sweetness of the onion, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes you’ll add later. Next, toss in half a cup of diced bell peppers and three minced garlic cloves. Cook for an additional 4 minutes and add two tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon of hot sauce (if you like a kick), and 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce for depth of flavor.
Combine the broth and tomatoes
Now it’s time to build that robust broth! Pour in three cups of chicken broth and 1.5 cups of beef broth, followed by two cans of undrained diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce it to a simmer. Let it gently bubble uncovered for about 15 minutes, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Cook the pasta and finish the soup
As the broth simmers, prepare your favorite pasta—about one cup should do the trick, and cavatappi works wonderfully here! Once the soup has simmered and you’ve tasted to adjust seasonings to your preference, add the meatballs back, and then stir in the pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes.
Finally, reduce the heat to low, stir in half a cup of heavy cream, and toss in two cups of fresh spinach until it wilts. Serve hot, topped with a dollop of ricotta cheese and freshly grated Parmesan for a finishing touch that adds a creamy richness. Enjoy your comforting bowl of meatball soup that feels like a big hug!
With these detailed steps, making meaty, hearty soup at home can be easy and enjoyable. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delicious dish!
Variations on Meatball Soup
Vegetarian Meatball Options
Looking to switch things up in your meatball soup? Consider making vegetarian meatballs using ingredients like lentils, beans, or chickpeas. You can mix in oats or breadcrumbs for texture and bind them with flaxseed or mashed potatoes. This adaptation not only caters to plant-based diets but also adds a delightful twist! Check out this lentil meatball recipe for inspiration.
Different Broth Choices
The flavor of your meatball soup can significantly change based on your broth choice. While chicken and beef broth are classic, feel free to experiment with vegetable broth for a lighter version. For an Asian-inspired twist, try using miso broth. This simple swap can impart new flavors and enhance the overall richness. Don't hesitate to make your own broth for an added personal touch!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Meatball Soup
Tips for Perfect Meatballs
To create your meatball soup stars, focus on your meat mixture. Combine beaten egg and heavy cream for a tender texture, and don’t forget the Italian breadcrumbs for flavor. Gently mix the ingredients to keep your meatballs light and fluffy. For added depth, toss in some finely minced garlic and grated Parmesan. And remember, rolling them into uniform-sized balls helps ensure even cooking.
Notes on Making the Soup Ahead of Time
If you're planning a cozy night, consider making the meatball soup a day ahead. The flavors meld beautifully as it sits in the fridge. Just boil the pasta separately on serving day to prevent it from getting too mushy. When reheating, add a splash of broth to revive the soup's richness. Perfect for meal prep or a simple family dinner!
Serving Suggestions for Meatball Soup
Garnishes to Elevate Your Soup
Adding the right garnishes can transform your meatball soup from comforting to extraordinary! Consider these flavorful options:
- Dollop of Ricotta: A creamy scoop adds richness and balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.
- Grated Parmesan: A generous sprinkle not only enhances the flavor but also provides a delightful texture.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a touch of heat, these add a nice kick.
With these simple touches, your meatball soup will impress!
Pairing Sides That Complement Meatball Soup
Thinking about what to serve alongside your meatball soup? Here are a few delicious options:
- Crusty Bread: A warm loaf is perfect for dipping and soaking up the broth.
- Simple Salad: A light mixed greens salad dressed with olive oil and lemon can balance the richness of the soup.
- Garlic Bread: For a cozy night in, serve with buttery garlic bread for that extra indulgence.
With these pairings, you’ll have a satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion!
Time Breakdown for Meatball Soup
Preparation Time
To kick things off, you'll need about 30 minutes to prepare for your delicious meatball soup. This includes mixing the meatball ingredients and chopping up your veggies.
Cooking Time
Once you're prepped and ready, it’s time to cook! The soup will simmer for 50 minutes, allowing all those rich flavors to meld beautifully.
Total Time
In total, you're looking at about 1 hour and 20 minutes from start to finish. Gather your family, because this hearty soup serves up 13 cups of comfort! Ready to dive in? Check out more tips and techniques on The Cozy Cook.
Nutritional Facts for Meatball Soup
Calories
Each cup of this delicious meatball soup packs in about 222 calories. This makes it a satisfying and wholesome choice, perfect for a comforting meal without overindulgence.
Protein
You'll also get a hearty dose of 11 grams of protein per cup, thanks to the combination of beef and pork in the meatballs. This makes it not only tasty but also great for keeping your energy levels up!
Sodium
However, keep an eye on the sodium content, which is around 741 mg per serving. If you're watching your salt intake, consider using low-sodium broth options or adjusting the seasoning to suit your needs.
Want to learn more about the nutritional value of your favorite recipes? Check out resources like the USDA FoodData Central for detailed insights.
FAQs about Meatball Soup
Can I freeze meatball soup?
Absolutely! Meatball soup is freezer-friendly, making it perfect for meal prep. To freeze it, cool the soup completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Just remember to reheat it gently to preserve the delicious flavors. If you’ve added pasta, it’s best to cook the pasta separately and store it on the side. This helps prevent the noodles from soaking up too much broth.
How can I make it creamier?
If you're looking to elevate the creaminess of your meatball soup, consider using whole milk instead of cream or adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt when serving. This not only enhances the creaminess but adds a tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the soup.
What’s the best pasta to use?
Cavatappi and small shells work wonderfully in meatball soup as they hold onto the broth and flavors nicely. However, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape! Just be mindful of the cooking time, as you'll want to ensure it’s cooked through but not mushy. For tips on choosing the right pasta, check out Bon Appétit’s pasta guide.
Conclusion on Meatball Soup
In conclusion, this meatball soup is a delightful blend of flavors that warms the soul. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, it’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. So gather your loved ones, spoon up a hearty bowl, and savor every delicious bite!
Meatball Soup
Equipment
- soup pot or Dutch oven
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 unit egg beaten
- 0.5 cup heavy cream can substitute with milk
- 0.5 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese finely grated into a powder
- 3 cloves garlic finely diced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon pepper
- 0.5 lb. ground beef 80% lean
- 0.5 lb. ground pork
Soup
- 1 Tablespoon butter
- 1 unit yellow onion diced
- 0.5 cup bell peppers diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 Tablespoons tomato paste
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1.5 cups beef broth can substitute with chicken broth
- 2 cans (14.5 oz.) diced tomatoes undrained
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce optional
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups spinach
- 1 cup dry pasta used cavatappi
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes
- Salt/Pepper to taste
For Serving
- 8 oz. Ricotta Cheese
- 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese
- Red Pepper Flakes
Instructions
For the Meatballs
- Combine the whisked egg and heavy cream in a large bowl. Add the breadcrumbs and stir for 1-2 minutes to form a paste. Add Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper and stir to combine. Add the ground beef and ground pork and gently combine, don’t overwork the meat, we want tender meatballs.
- Roll the meat into 1-inch balls.
- Heat the olive oil in a 4 ½ quart soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Brown the meatballs in batches for 2-3 minutes, add a splash of olive oil throughout cooking and decrease heat slightly as needed. The inside of the meatballs will finish cooking in the soup.
- Remove the meatballs and set aside.
For the Soup
- Place the diced tomatoes in a large bowl and use an immersion blender to blend it to your desired texture, chunks of tomato can be left if preferred. (Alternatively, you can also use a blender.) Set aside.
- Melt the butter in the same soup pot over medium-low heat. Add the diced onions and cook for 10 minutes, a little longer than normal as this will release some of their sugar which counteracts the acidity of the tomatoes. Stir every few minutes.
- Add the peppers and cook for 4 minutes. Add the garlic, tomato paste, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings. Cook for 1 minute.
- Add in the chicken broth, beef broth, and tomatoes.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it simmer uncovered for 15 minutes. You can also simmer it longer to concentrate the flavor and thicken it more.
- Stir the soup and bring the soup to a gentle boil. Add the meatballs and the pasta and return it to a gentle boil. Cook until pasta is cooked through, refer to package for cooking time. It may take a little longer since we’re boiling gently. Test-taste a noodle before serving.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream, then add the spinach and cook until wilted, about 1 minute.
- Transfer to serving bowls and top with ricotta cheese, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes. (You can warm the ricotta in the microwave first if preferred.)
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