Warm your soul with a bowl of "Thyme for Meatball Soup," a delightful Italian-inspired dish that promises to be your new go-to comfort food! With tender, flavorful meatballs swimming in a savory broth filled with fresh vegetables, this recipe is not just a meal—it's an experience that will leave you craving more. Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a cozy night in, this hearty soup is sure to become a family favorite. Ready to discover how to create this delicious dish in just 45 minutes? Let’s dive into the recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, 1 tsp dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands until well incorporated.
- Form the meat mixture into small, uniform meatballs approximately 1-inch in diameter. Aim to create about 20-24 meatballs.
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Lightly brown the meatballs on all sides, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. This should take about 5-6 minutes. Remove meatballs and set aside.
- In the same pot, add chopped carrots and celery. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
- Pour in beef broth and diced tomatoes. Add remaining 1 tsp dried thyme and stir to combine.
- Gently return the browned meatballs to the pot. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing meatballs to cook through completely.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Let soup rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Ladle hot soup into bowls, ensuring each serving has several meatballs. Optional: Garnish with fresh thyme or grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, use high-quality ground beef and fresh vegetables. Opt for fresh thyme if possible, as it will enhance the aroma and taste of your soup.
- Mix Meatballs Gently: When combining the ingredients for the meatballs, be careful not to overmix. This keeps the meatballs tender and prevents them from becoming tough.
- Brown Meatballs in Batches: To achieve a nice crust on your meatballs, avoid overcrowding the pot. Brown them in batches to ensure they cook evenly and maintain their shape.
- Adjust the Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water to the broth during the simmering stage.
- Garnish for Presentation: Elevate your soup by garnishing each bowl with fresh thyme or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese right before serving. This adds a beautiful touch and extra flavor.
- Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Consider making a double batch and storing leftovers in the fridge for an easy, delicious meal later in the week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 95mg
