Description
A hearty and comforting Italian meatball soup featuring tender beef meatballs, fresh vegetables, and small pasta cooked in a rich tomato and beef broth. Perfect for a cozy meal that is both satisfying and flavorful.
Ingredients
Meatballs
- 250 g ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp grated parmesan
- Salt and pepper to taste
Soup Base
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 800 g crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup small pasta (like ditalini)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Meatballs: In a bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, grated parmesan, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and form the mixture into small meatballs.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery, sautéing until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute to release its aroma without burning.
- Simmer Soup Base: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to blend the flavors.
- Cook Meatballs: Carefully add the prepared meatballs to the simmering soup. Allow them to cook for about 10 minutes, ensuring they are cooked through.
- Add Pasta: Add the small pasta to the soup and cook until the pasta is tender, about 8-10 minutes depending on the pasta used.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for ground beef.
- Add a handful of fresh spinach at the end of cooking for added nutrition and color.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
