Hearty Italian Meatball Soup for Cozy Nights In
This Italian Meatball Soup is a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for cozy nights in with family and friends.
Equipment
- large mixing bowl
- large pot or Dutch oven
- Spoon
- plate
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey Use ground turkey for a leaner option.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs Try using seasoned bread crumbs for extra flavor.
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese For a rich, umami punch.
- 1 large egg Acts as a binder.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Feel free to add more for extra zest.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs Substitute with fresh herbs if available.
- ½ teaspoon salt Essential for flavor enhancement.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper Freshly ground pepper is best.
For the Soup Base
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth Homemade broth elevates the taste.
- 1 cup heavy cream Use half-and-half for a lighter version.
For the Vegetables
- 1 cup diced carrots Chop uniformly for even cooking.
- 1 cup diced celery Can be substituted with bell peppers.
- 1 cup diced potatoes Use Yukon Gold or Russets.
- 1 cup frozen green peas Adds color and nutrients.
For Garnish
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped Brightens the dish.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef or turkey, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Roll the mixture into small balls, each about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a plate.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and brown the meatballs for 5-7 minutes until golden brown on all sides, then set aside.
- Add more olive oil if needed, then add diced carrots, celery, and potatoes to the same pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes.
- Pour in chicken or vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Return the meatballs to the pot, then stir in heavy cream and frozen green peas. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Notes
Consider using homemade broth for richer flavor. Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option.
Nutrition
Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg
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