5-ingredient marvel: how to make meatball soup from scratch in a flash

Indulge in the warmth and nourishment of homemade meatball soup, a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and soothe your soul. This comprehensive guide will lead you step-by-step through the process of creating this comforting dish from scratch.

Gathering the Essential Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound ground pork
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Soup:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) beef broth
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Crafting the Perfect Meatballs

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine all the meatball ingredients and mix thoroughly.
2. Form Meatballs: Roll the meat mixture into 1-inch meatballs.
3. Brown Meatballs: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides.

Creating a Flavorful Broth

1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened.
2. Add Tomatoes: Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Bring to a simmer.
3. Pour in Broth: Add the beef broth and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.

Assembling the Soup

1. Add Meatballs: Carefully add the browned meatballs to the soup.
2. Simmer: Bring the soup back to a simmer and cook for 30-45 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
3. Season to Taste: Stir in the chopped fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving Suggestions

Ladle the piping hot meatball soup into bowls and serve with a side of crusty bread or crackers. Garnish with additional fresh basil or grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor.

Tips for a Rich and Flavorful Soup

• Use a combination of ground beef and ground pork for a more flavorful meatball.
• Don’t overmix the meatball mixture, as this can result in tough meatballs.
• Brown the meatballs before adding them to the soup to enhance their flavor and texture.
• Simmer the soup for a longer period of time to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Experiment with different vegetables, such as potatoes, green beans, or zucchini, to add variety to your soup.

Savoring the Comfort and Warmth

As you sip on a bowl of homemade meatball soup, let the warmth and comfort envelop you. This nourishing dish is perfect for a cold evening, a cozy weekend brunch, or a simple weeknight meal.

Questions You May Have

Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork?
A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner meatball.

Q: Can I freeze meatball soup?
A: Yes, meatball soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

Q: How can I make my meatball soup spicy?
A: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the soup for a spicy kick.

Q: Can I add pasta to my meatball soup?
A: Yes, you can add cooked pasta to the soup for a more filling meal.

Q: What are some other herbs and spices I can add to the soup?
A: Experiment with herbs such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary. You can also add spices like paprika or chili powder.