Description
Hearty Meatball & Vegetable Soup is a comforting, nourishing dish combining juicy meatballs with a vibrant mix of fresh vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for chilly days or any time you crave a wholesome, soul-soothing meal that’s easy to prepare and customize.
Ingredients
Scale
Meatballs
- 1 lb ground meat (beef, pork, turkey, or a blend)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs for gluten-free option)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Vegetables & Broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups chicken or beef broth
- 1 tsp Italian herbs (basil, oregano, parsley, or a blend)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a mixing bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly, then form into small bite-sized meatballs.
- Brown the Meatballs: Heat a large pot over medium heat with a bit of oil. Add the meatballs and brown on all sides. Once browned, carefully remove and set aside to keep their shape and flavor.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add diced onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally—this builds the soup’s rich base.
- Add Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the chicken or beef broth, then add the diced tomatoes along with Italian herbs. Bring the mixture to a boil, letting all those flavors mingle.
- Simmer with Meatballs: Return the browned meatballs to the pot. Add zucchini and any other veggies you like. Reduce the heat and simmer gently for 20-30 minutes until meatballs are cooked through and vegetables are tender.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and herbs as needed. Serve hot for the ultimate cozy bowl of goodness.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley for brighter flavor.
- Mix meatball ingredients just enough to combine; avoid overmixing to keep them tender.
- Browning meatballs adds deep flavor and locks in juiciness.
- Simmer gently to meld flavors and keep meatballs tender.
- Customize vegetables based on seasonal availability or preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soups
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American / Italian-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
Keywords: meatball soup, vegetable soup, hearty soup, comfort food, one pot meal, gluten free option, easy dinner
