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Italian Meatball Soup

A warm and hearty soup filled with juicy meatballs, vibrant vegetables, and rich flavors—a perfect comfort food for the family on a chilly day.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 pound ground beef Quality beef for best flavor.
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs Use fresh breadcrumbs for better texture.
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated is recommended.
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley Adds freshness to the meatballs.
  • 1 large egg Helps bind the meatballs together.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Adds aromatic flavor.
  • to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning the meat mixture.
For the Soup
  • 6 cups beef broth Low sodium recommended.
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes With juice for extra flavor.
  • 2 cups chopped carrots Fresh carrots for sweetness.
  • 2 cups chopped celery Adds crunch and flavor.
  • 1 cup chopped onion Provides a base flavor.
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning For authentic Italian flavor.
  • to taste Salt and pepper Adjust seasoning as necessary.

Method
 

Preparation of Meatballs
  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until fully combined.
  2. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
Cooking
  1. In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, cooking until they are browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove them from the pot and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
  3. Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes (including juice), and stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a low boil.
  4. Once boiling, reduce the heat and carefully add the browned meatballs back into the pot. Allow the soup to simmer for about 25 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and vegetables are tender.
Serving
  1. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with more fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors!

Notes

For a thicker broth, add diced potatoes. Do not skip browning the meatballs for added flavor. Can make meatballs in advance and refrigerate or freeze.