Meatball Soup with Seasonal Vegetables

Name: Meatball Soup with Seasonal Vegetables
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 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, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups seasonal vegetables (like zucchini and green beans); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Seasonal Recipes

A hearty and comforting soup featuring tender meatballs and a medley of seasonal vegetables.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-17T00:22:18.451Z

This Meatball Soup is a family favorite that brings warmth and comfort on chilly days. Packed with flavorful meatballs and fresh seasonal vegetables, it's a nourishing dish that is perfect for any occasion.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty meatballs that are juicy and flavorful
Nutritious seasonal vegetables for added freshness
A comforting bowl of soup that warms the soul

      

A Comforting Classic

Nothing beats a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day, and this Meatball Soup with Seasonal Vegetables is the epitome of comfort food. The combination of juicy meatballs and vibrant vegetables comes together to create a dish that not only nourishes the body but also comforts the soul. Each spoonful is packed with flavor and warmth, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or cozy nights in.

This soup is versatile and can be customized with various seasonal vegetables. Whether you have zucchini, green beans, or whatever’s in season, you can easily adapt the recipe to include your favorites. This adaptability not only enhances the flavor but also ensures that you’re getting a healthy dose of nutrients, making it a great option for everyone at the table.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the best aspects of this Meatball Soup is its meal prep potential. You can make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for later use. Simply reheat when you’re ready to enjoy a comforting meal. This makes it a fantastic option for busy weekdays or when you want to have a homemade meal ready at a moment's notice.

When storing, be mindful that the vegetables may soften over time, but the flavor will remain robust. For best results, consider freezing the meatballs separately from the broth and vegetables. This way, you can add fresh veggies when reheating for an even better taste and texture.

Nutritional Benefits

This Meatball Soup is not just delicious; it's also packed with nutritional benefits. The inclusion of lean ground beef provides a good source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. The seasonal vegetables contribute dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, promoting overall health and wellness. Together, they create a balanced meal that supports a healthy lifestyle.

Moreover, cooking with fresh vegetables allows for a higher nutrient retention compared to canned or processed options. By incorporating a variety of colorful vegetables, you're not only enhancing the flavor but also increasing the antioxidant content of your meal, making this soup a wholesome choice for any occasion.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious Meatball Soup:

For the Meatballs

1 pound ground beef
1/2 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, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cups chicken broth
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups seasonal vegetables (like zucchini and green beans)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Once you have all the ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Meatball Soup:

Prepare the Meatballs

In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into small meatballs.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Cook the Meatballs

Add the meatballs to the pot and brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Broth and Vegetables

Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Add the seasonal vegetables, then bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.

Season and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious Meatball Soup!

Tips for Perfect Meatballs

To achieve the perfect meatballs, be careful not to overmix the ingredients. A gentle hand will create tender meatballs that remain juicy during cooking. Additionally, letting the meatballs rest for a few minutes before adding them to the pot will help them hold their shape better while cooking.

Experimenting with different seasonings can elevate the flavor profile of your meatballs. Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a fragrant touch, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice. Personalizing your meatballs can make this dish uniquely yours.

Serving Suggestions

While this Meatball Soup is delightful on its own, you can elevate the dining experience by serving it with crusty bread or a side salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can complement the hearty soup and add a refreshing contrast.

For an extra touch, consider sprinkling some additional Parmesan cheese over the soup just before serving. This adds a rich, savory flavor that pairs beautifully with the meatballs and vegetables, making each bite even more satisfying.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing them properly is key to maintaining their flavor and texture. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. In the fridge, it can last for up to three days, while in the freezer, it can be stored for up to three months.

When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the soup seems too thick after being refrigerated, you can add a splash of broth or water to bring it back to the desired consistency. Enjoying your leftovers should feel just as delightful as the first serving!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used in place of fresh ones for convenience.

→ How can I make this soup gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your broth is gluten-free.

→ Can I prepare the meatballs in advance?

Absolutely! You can make and freeze the meatballs ahead of time.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a simple side salad.