Introduction
Welcome to gonall.com where we explore the rich tapestry of Italian cuisine! Today, we’re excited to share with you a classic recipe that warms the heart and delights the palate: Italian Meatball Soup. Bursting with flavor, tender meatballs, and wholesome ingredients, this soup is a celebration of comfort and tradition. Let’s dive into the savory world of Italian cooking.
video instructions available below 👇Â
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
– 1 pound ground beef (or a combination of beef and pork)
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Soup:
– 8 cups beef or chicken broth
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or small shells)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
1. **Prepare the Meatballs:**
– In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
– Mix until well combined, but be careful not to overwork the mixture.
– Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Set aside.
2. **Make the Soup Base:**
– In a large pot, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced carrots, celery, onion, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. **Add the Broth and Tomatoes:**
– Pour in the beef or chicken broth and diced tomatoes with their juices. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. **Cook the Meatballs:**
– Gently drop the meatballs into the simmering soup one by one. Let them cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are cooked through and tender.
5. **Add the Pasta:**
– Stir in the small pasta of your choice and continue to simmer the soup until the pasta is cooked al dente, according to the package instructions.
6. **Season and Serve:**
– Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
– Ladle the Italian Meatball Soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips for Success
– For extra flavor, consider adding a parmesan rind to the soup while it simmers.
– Feel free to customize the soup with additional vegetables such as spinach, kale, or zucchini.
– Make a big batch of this soup and freeze the leftovers for quick and easy meals on busy days.
Conclusion
Italian Meatball Soup is more than just a dish; it’s a warm embrace on a cold day, a taste of home, and a reminder of the joy found in simple pleasures. With this recipe, you can bring the heartwarming flavors of Italy into your own kitchen and create cherished memories around the dining table. So gather your loved ones, simmer a pot of soup, and savor the comforting essence of Italian cuisine.
Stay tuned to [Your Website Name] for more delectable recipes and culinary adventures. Buon appetito!