Here’s a delicious and hearty Meatball Soup recipe for you! This soup is perfect for cozy dinners and full of flavor.
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1/4 cup chopped parsley (fresh)
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Soup:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, peeled and chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups (1 liter) chicken broth (or beef broth)
1/2 cup small pasta (like orzo, ditalini, or elbow macaroni)
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Make the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine ground beef (or beef and pork mix), breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped parsley, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
Mix until well combined. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and set aside.
2. Cook the Soup Base:
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the Broth and Tomatoes:
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken broth, bay leaf, and dried basil. Bring to a simmer.
4. Cook the Meatballs:
Carefully drop the meatballs into the simmering soup. Try to do this gently so they don’t break apart.
Let them cook in the broth for about 15-20 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through.
5. Add the Pasta:
Once the meatballs are cooked, add the small pasta (like orzo or ditalini) and continue simmering for another 10-12 minutes until the pasta is tender.
6. Final Seasoning:
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve:
Remove the bay leaf and discard.
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
8. Enjoy!
Serve with some crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
This meatball soup is warm, comforting, and packed with flavor. It’s a perfect dish for chilly nights!
