Hearty Italian Meatball Soup for Cozy Nights

© Original recipe by The Daily Dishboard ©

Hearty Italian Meatball Soup for Cozy Nights 🍲🇮🇹✨

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a comfort food that’s both satisfying and easy to make, then this Italian meatball soup recipe is perfect for you. This hearty dinner combines tender meatballs, flavorful broth, and fresh vegetables for an irresistible meatball stew that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this soup offers all the comforting flavors of Italy with minimal effort.

2. Ingredients for this Italian Meatball Soup

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef or turkey
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare the Hearty Italian Meatball Soup

Preparing the Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef or turkey, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the ingredients are well incorporated. Form into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and set aside.

Searing 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 from the pot and set aside.

Sautéing Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until vegetables are tender and fragrant.

Building the Soup Base

Add the canned diced tomatoes (with juice) and pour in the broth. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Carefully return the browned meatballs into the soup.

Simmering the Soup

Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the meatballs to cook through thoroughly.

Adding Greens and Final Touches

Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes until wilted. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped basil or parsley before serving.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Italian Meatball Soup

To keep your hearty Italian meatball soup fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, transfer to freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. The flavors often deepen after a day or two, making leftovers even more delicious.

5. Delicious Serving Suggestions for this Meatball Stew

Serve this Italian meatball soup with warm crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the flavorful broth. For a touch of authenticity, sprinkle with additional Parmesan or fresh herbs. Pair it with a light white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing accompaniment.

If you want a creamy touch, consider serving alongside a creamy Parmesan pasta to make your meal even more indulgent!

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Italian Meatball Soup

Can I use turkey instead of beef for the meatballs?

Absolutely! Turkey makes a leaner meatball stew with a slightly different flavor. Just ensure not to overmix the meat to keep the meatballs tender.

How long does it take to prepare and cook this hearty dinner?

The entire process should take around 40-45 minutes, including prepping, browning the meatballs, and simmering the soup.

Can I freeze this Italian meatball soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove for best results.

What are some substitutions I can use for the vegetables?

You can swap carrots and celery for other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or peas depending on your preference.

7. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe

• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer — Perfect for quickly cooking or reheating side dishes to accompany your soup.
• T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — This durable cookware set makes preparing your soup straightforward and enjoyable.
• Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo — Brilliant for making crispy garlic bread or finishing up side dishes.

8. Final Tips for Making Perfect Italian Meatball Soup

Use high-quality ingredients, especially fresh vegetables and good meat, to enhance the flavors. Don’t forget to taste the broth before serving and adjust seasoning as needed. The key to an authentic meatball stew is simmering gently to meld all the flavors beautifully.

9. Conclusion

Enjoying a bowl of this hearty Italian meatball soup on a cool evening is pure comfort. It’s a hearty dinner that brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week, this meatball stew is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking and buon appetito!

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