Meatball Soup with Italian Herbs
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Savor the comforting flavors of this hearty Meatball Soup with Italian Herbs, perfect for chilly days.
This Meatball Soup is a family favorite, blending tender meatballs with a medley of vegetables and aromatic herbs. It's a dish that brings warmth and comfort, making it perfect for any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, savory flavor from Italian herbs
- Tender meatballs that are easy to make
- A wholesome and filling soup for any season
The Comfort of Homemade Soup
There's something undeniably comforting about a bowl of homemade soup, especially when it’s packed with hearty meatballs and fresh vegetables. Meatball Soup with Italian Herbs not only warms the body but also nourishes the soul. The combination of savory flavors and tender meatballs creates a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. With every spoonful, you can relish the rich and aromatic essence of Italian cooking, making this soup a perfect addition to your seasonal recipe collection.
Using fresh, wholesome ingredients elevates this recipe to a new level. The vibrant colors of diced tomatoes, carrots, and spinach not only make the dish visually appealing but also enhance its nutritional profile. Each ingredient contributes to a balanced meal, providing essential vitamins and minerals while delighting your taste buds. This soup is a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing flavor.
Easy and Versatile Recipe
One of the best aspects of this Meatball Soup is its simplicity. Preparing the meatballs is straightforward, allowing even novice cooks to achieve delicious results. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create tender meatballs that hold their shape beautifully during cooking. Plus, the flexibility of the recipe allows you to experiment with various herbs and spices, tailoring the soup to your taste preferences.
Feel free to customize the soup with whatever vegetables you have on hand. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even potatoes can be great additions, providing unique flavors and textures. This makes the recipe a fantastic choice for utilizing leftover vegetables or adapting to seasonal produce. Whether you enjoy it as a light meal or a hearty dinner, this soup is sure to satisfy.
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you're looking for a meal prep-friendly recipe, look no further. Meatball Soup with Italian Herbs stores beautifully, making it an ideal candidate for batch cooking. You can easily double or triple the recipe, ensuring you have ample servings for the week ahead. Simply store the soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to five days or freeze it for longer storage.
Reheating is a breeze; just warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. The flavors continue to develop over time, often tasting even better the next day. Whether you’re planning lunches for the week or a cozy dinner, this soup is a convenient and delicious option that saves you time in the kitchen.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients for a delightful meal:
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Soup
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps for a delicious Meatball Soup:
Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into small meatballs.
Brown the Meatballs
In a large pot, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown on all sides, then remove and set aside.
Cook the Vegetables
In the same pot, add carrots, celery, and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth.
Simmer the Soup
Return the meatballs to the pot and add spinach and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
Enjoy your delicious Meatball Soup!
Serving Suggestions
This Meatball Soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad, making it a complete and satisfying meal. The bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth, soaking up all the flavors while adding a delightful crunch. A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can complement the heartiness of the soup, balancing the meal perfectly.
For a more indulgent experience, consider topping the soup with additional grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds an appealing visual element to your dish.
Storing and Freezing Tips
When storing Meatball Soup, ensure it cools completely before transferring it to airtight containers. This will help prevent condensation, which can lead to soggy meatballs. If you're planning to freeze the soup, it's best to freeze it without the spinach, as it can become mushy upon reheating. Instead, add the fresh spinach when you're ready to serve the soup.
Label your containers with the date, and enjoy the soup within three months for the best flavor and texture. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and you'll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen meatballs?
Yes, frozen meatballs can be used. Just add them directly to the broth without browning.
→ What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can use ground turkey or chicken as a healthier alternative.
→ Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use veggie broth and substitute meatballs with plant-based options.
→ How long will leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Meatball Soup with Italian Herbs
Savor the comforting flavors of this hearty Meatball Soup with Italian Herbs, perfect for chilly days.
Created by: Ella
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Soup
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into small meatballs.
In a large pot, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown on all sides, then remove and set aside.
In the same pot, add carrots, celery, and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth.
Return the meatballs to the pot and add spinach and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
- Sodium: 540mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 20g