Creamy Italian Meatball Soup: One Pot, All Comfort!
Introduction
Welcome, food enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into the comforting world of Creamy Italian Meatball Soup. This hearty dish combines the rich flavors of Italy with the soothing warmth of a creamy soup. It’s the perfect remedy for chilly evenings or when you need a culinary hug.
Why is it Perfect for You?
◾ One-pot wonder: Less cleanup, more enjoyment
◾ Comfort food at its finest: Warms you from the inside out
◾ Versatile: Great for family dinners or impressing guests
◾ Nutrient-rich: Packed with protein and vegetables
Ingredients List
◾ 500g ground beef
◾ 1 cup breadcrumbs
◾ 1 egg
◾ 2 cloves garlic, minced
◾ 1 tsp dried oregano
◾ 1 tsp dried basil
◾ 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
◾ 2 tbsp olive oil
◾ 1 onion, diced
◾ 2 carrots, chopped
◾ 2 celery stalks, chopped
◾ 4 cups chicken broth
◾ 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
◾ 1 cup small pasta (like orzo or small shells)
◾ 1 cup heavy cream
◾ Salt and pepper to taste
◾ Fresh basil for garnish
Preparation Time and Servings
◾ Prep time: 20 minutes
◾ Cook time: 30 minutes
◾ Total time: 50 minutes
◾ Servings: 6
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well and form into small meatballs.
Step 2: Cook the Meatballs
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Soup Base
In the same pot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened. Add chicken broth and crushed tomatoes, bringing to a boil.
Step 4: Add Pasta and Meatballs
Reduce heat to a simmer and add pasta and meatballs. Cook until pasta is al dente and meatballs are cooked through.
Step 5: Finish with Cream
Stir in heavy cream and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve
Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh basil.
Nutritional Information
◾ Protein: 25g
◾ Carbohydrates: 30g
◾ Fat: 20g
◾ Fiber: 3g
Calories per Person
Approximately 400 calories per serving
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
◾ Use ground turkey instead of beef for leaner meatballs
◾ Substitute whole wheat pasta for added fiber
◾ Replace heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a protein boost
Serving Suggestions
Pair this Creamy Italian Meatball Soup with a crisp green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal. For a touch of elegance, sprinkle some extra Parmesan and a drizzle of high-quality olive oil before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
◾ Overcooking the pasta: Add it towards the end to maintain texture
◾ Skipping the browning: Don’t rush the meatball browning process
◾ Adding cream too early: Incorporate it at the end to prevent curdling
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to maintain the creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, but freeze before adding the cream. Add cream when reheating.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the meatballs first, then cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Conclusion
This Creamy Italian Meatball Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl. Perfect for cozy nights in or impressing dinner guests, this versatile dish is sure to become a family favorite. Remember, cooking is an art – feel free to adjust and experiment to make it your own!
Contact Us
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Share your experience with us
OOLALA
This turned out so awesome they look like they came from a exspensive bakery.
Just a question
So what about the grease from the meat? Should I use the leanest meats or is the grease give more flavor.
What about a meatloaf on top of veggies ? Would that work?
Ingredients list good, directions lacking
There were great details on quantities of ingredients I should use, but the recipe didn’t tell me the cook time. Also, mentioned in the section about “common mistakes” that you need to let it chill enough but doesn’t direct you in the recipe that you need to let it chill. More details would be helpful
Dressing is perfect!
Not a big fan of mayo, loved the Greek yogurt swap. Reduced garlic a bit. Dressing was delish!
Best coffee cake- ever!!
This recipe was not the easiest to follow due to how it was written. It requires a lot of back and forth from instructions to the lists of ingredients but oh, hey, the end result is totally worth the effort! Mouthwatering and delicious plus it’s a pretty presentation.
