why make this recipe
Tender Meatball Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that warms you from the inside out. Filled with flavorful meatballs, fresh vegetables, and cozy pasta, this soup is perfect for chilly days or when you need a little comfort food. It’s easy to make and great for sharing with family and friends. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use simple ingredients to create something delicious.
how to make Tender Meatball Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup mini Farfalle pasta
Directions:
- In a bowl, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Form the mixture into small meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are soft.
- Add the meatballs to the pot and cook until they are browned on all sides.
- Pour in the beef broth and the canned diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Add the green beans and mini Farfalle pasta. Cook until the pasta is tender and the meatballs are fully cooked, about 10-15 minutes.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot.
how to serve Tender Meatball Soup
Serve Tender Meatball Soup hot, either in bowls or in large soup cups. You can sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor. This soup goes well with crusty bread or a fresh side salad. Enjoy it with family or friends for a comforting meal.
how to store Tender Meatball Soup
To store Tender Meatball Soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze it. Just make sure to leave some space in the container, as liquids expand when frozen. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.
tips to make Tender Meatball Soup
- Use lean ground beef to keep the soup light but still flavorful.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Make meatballs ahead of time and freeze them. This way, you can prepare the soup quickly on busy days.
- Adjust the seasoning to your liking. Add more spices if you prefer a stronger flavor.
variation
You can easily switch up the recipe by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. Adding different types of pasta, like small shells or macaroni, can also change the texture of the soup.
FAQs
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen vegetables can work well in this soup. Just add them in during the last few minutes of cooking.
How can I make this soup spicy?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when you sauté the vegetables for a spicy kick.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just brown the meatballs and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
