Italian Meatball Soup Cozy & Delicious Dinner

© Original Recipe By The Daily Garnish ©

Italian Meatball Soup Cozy & Delicious Dinner 🍲🇮🇹✨

1. Introduction

If you’re looking for a comforting and hearty option for dinner, Italian Meatball Soup is the perfect choice. This flavorful meatball soup combines homemade Italian meatballs, fresh vegetables, and a savory broth to create an Italian comfort food that warms both body and soul. Whether you’re serving a cozy family meal or impressing guests with a rustic dish, this hearty soup will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection. Ready to learn how to make this delicious Italian meatball soup? Let’s dive into the ingredients and step-by-step instructions!

2. Ingredients for Italian Meatball Soup

• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Fresh spinach or kale (optional)
• Cooked pasta or rice (optional, for serving)

3. How to Make Hearty Italian Meatball Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, egg, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Form the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs about 1 inch in diameter. Set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until they are browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the meatballs and set them aside. This step enhances the flavor but is optional; you can also add raw meatballs directly into the soup.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add chopped onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Sauté until the vegetables become tender, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir well. Add the broth, dried oregano, and dried basil. Stir to combine everything evenly.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Carefully add the raw or seared meatballs back to the pot. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the meatballs to cook through.

Step 6: Add Greens and Finish

If using, add fresh spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of simmering. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. For a heartier meal, serve the soup over cooked pasta or rice.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Italian Meatball Soup

Store any leftover Italian meatball soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. The soup may thicken over time; add a splash of broth or water to loosen it when reheating. For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

5. Serving Suggestions for Italian Comfort Food

This hearty soup is most delicious when served hot, paired with a slice of crusty artisan bread or garlic bread from KitchenAid Stand Mixer to soak up the flavorful broth. Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs for a pop of freshness. For a complete Italian-inspired meal, consider serving with a side of garlic Parmesan chicken skewers to make dinner even more flavorful.

6. Frequently Asked Questions about Italian Meatball Soup

Can I make this soup vegan or vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ground meat with lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based meat alternatives. Use vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken broth and omit cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

How long does it take to prepare this meatball soup?

The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 45 minutes. Making the meatballs from scratch adds about 15 minutes, but you can also use pre-made meatballs to save time.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans to customize your Italian meatball soup.

7. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe

• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics – Perfect for quick and even cooking of meatballs and vegetables. This versatile gadget simplifies meal prep and helps achieve crispy textures.
• T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – This durable cookware set makes sautéing vegetables and simmering soup easier thanks to its nonstick surface.
• Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo – Enhance your cooking with this multifunctional appliance, ideal for making quick, delicious sides or finishing off meatballs.

8. Final Tips for Making the Perfect Meatball Soup

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for richer flavor.
• Don’t overcook the meatballs or they may become tough.
• Add extra herbs for a more aromatic broth.
• Double the recipe for leftovers or to freeze for a rainy day.

9. Conclusion

There’s nothing quite as satisfying as a bowl of Italian Meatball Soup. This hearty soup combines tender homemade meatballs, vibrant vegetables, and a savory broth to create a comforting meal that hits all the right notes. Perfect for cozy nights or sharing with loved ones, it’s a classic dish that embodies the warmth of Italian comfort food. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious, homemade dinner that will become a family favorite. Buon appetito!

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