Meatball Soup with Seasonal Vegetables

Name: Meatball Soup with Seasonal Vegetables
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups seasonal vegetables (e.g., zucchini, spinach); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

Warm up with a hearty bowl of Meatball Soup filled with flavorful meatballs and vibrant seasonal vegetables. Perfect for chilly days!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-16T19:42:17.832Z

This Meatball Soup is a family favorite, packed with tender meatballs and a variety of seasonal vegetables. It's comforting, nutritious, and perfect for any night of the week!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling with a perfect blend of flavors
Packed with nutritious vegetables for a healthy boost
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights

      

A Hearty Comfort Food

There's something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it is packed with flavorful meatballs and fresh vegetables. Meatball Soup not only warms you up on chilly days but also brings a sense of home-cooked goodness to your table. The combination of savory meatballs and vibrant seasonal vegetables creates a symphony of flavors that delights the palate and nourishes the soul.

This soup is a fantastic way to use up any seasonal vegetables you have on hand, making it versatile and adaptable. From zucchini to spinach, the options are endless, allowing you to tailor the dish to your taste preferences and what's available in your pantry. It's a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients without sacrificing flavor.

Perfect for Busy Weeknights

With a busy lifestyle, finding time to prepare nutritious meals can be challenging. This Meatball Soup recipe is designed with convenience in mind. The preparation time is minimal, and you can have a delicious, hearty meal ready in about 45 minutes. This makes it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner when you want something comforting but don't want to spend hours in the kitchen.

The one-pot nature of this soup means less cleanup, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle of multiple dishes. Simply prepare the meatballs, sauté the vegetables, and let everything simmer together for a flavorful dish that the whole family will love.

Customization and Variations

One of the best parts about this Meatball Soup is its versatility. Feel free to customize the meatballs by using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to create your signature flavor profile. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give the soup a delightful kick, while fresh basil or thyme can enhance the overall aroma.

If you're looking to make this soup vegetarian, consider substituting the meatballs with plant-based protein or chickpeas. You can also load up on more vegetables like bell peppers or green beans to create a vibrant, healthy dish that everyone will enjoy. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delicious Meatball Soup:

For the Meatballs

1 pound ground beef
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Soup

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
4 cups chicken broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups seasonal vegetables (e.g., zucchini, spinach)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Meatball Soup:

Prepare the Meatballs

In a bowl, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs, about 1 inch in size.

Brown the Meatballs

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove from pot and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.

Add Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil.

Simmer the Soup

Add the browned meatballs back into the pot along with the seasonal vegetables. Reduce heat and let simmer for 20 minutes.

Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Enjoy your warm bowl of Meatball Soup!

Nutritional Benefits

This Meatball Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. The combination of lean protein from the meatballs and a variety of seasonal vegetables provides a balanced meal rich in vitamins and minerals. Carrots and celery offer essential antioxidants, while leafy greens like spinach contribute to your daily intake of fiber and iron.

By making this soup at home, you can control the ingredients, ensuring that it remains healthy without added preservatives or excess sodium. It's a great way to introduce more vegetables into your diet, making it an excellent choice for families looking to eat healthier.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! Meatball Soup stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. This makes it a great option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this comforting dish throughout the week.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions of the soup. When freezing, it’s best to store the soup without the added vegetables to maintain their texture. You can then add fresh vegetables when reheating for the best results. This way, you can enjoy a homemade meal even on your busiest days.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used. Just add them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

→ How can I make this soup gluten-free?

You can substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free options or omit them altogether.

→ Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare meatballs a day in advance and refrigerate them until ready to cook.

→ What other ingredients can I add?

Feel free to customize the soup with your favorite vegetables or add beans for extra protein.