Parmesan Meatball Soup

Parmesan Meatball Soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or looking for an easy meal to whip up on a weeknight, this soup is perfect for all occasions. The rich flavors of beef and herbs combined with the creamy texture of Parmesan create a unique experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have this delicious soup ready in no time.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of fresh herbs, Parmesan cheese, and savory meatballs creates an irresistible flavor profile.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a hearty main dish or served as an appetizer in bread bowls.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and veggies, this soup is both filling and nourishing.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking process smooth and enjoyable, gather these essential kitchen tools before you start.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater for cheese

Why These Tools Matter

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Provides ample space for cooking the soup evenly without spills.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients seamlessly when making the meatballs.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate measurements for perfect seasoning every time.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 1 Cup Fresh Bread Crumbs (see note)
• 1/3 Cup Milk
• 1/2 Pound Ground Beef
• 1/2 Pound chicken chicken chicken italian sausage (mild)
• 1 Large Egg
• 1/4 Yellow Onion (grated)
• 2 Cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1/2 Cup Fresh Parmesan (Grated)
• 2 Tablespoons Fresh Italian parsley (chopped or 1 tablespoon dried)
• 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire Sauce
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Dried Basil
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Dried Oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon Crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon Kosher Salt
• 1 Pinch Black Pepper (freshly ground)

For the Soup Base

• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
• 1 Cup Onion (yellow, diced)
• 1 Carrot (peeled, finely diced)
• 1 Stalk Celery (finely diced)
• 2 Cloves Garlic (large, minced)
• 2 Tablespoons Tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 Can Crushed Tomatoes (28 oz.)
• 3 Cups Beef Broth (low sodium)

For Serving

• 1 Cup Milk
• Frozen Meatballs Halved (if you aren’t going to make them yourself)
• 3 Cups Mozzarella (shredded)
• 1/2 Cup Parmesan (freshly grated)
• Kosher Salt to taste
• Black Pepper (freshly ground to taste)
• 1 Squeeze Lemon
• 4 Bread bowls for serving
• Parsley (freshly chopped, for garnish)

How to Make Parmesan Meatball Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine the fresh bread crumbs and milk; let it sit for about 5 minutes.
2. Add ground beef, chicken sausage, egg, grated onion, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
3. Mix until combined but do not overwork the mixture.
4. Form into small meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes until they’re cooked through and browned.

Step 3: Make the Soup Base

While the meatballs are baking:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add diced onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic; sauté until soft.
3. Stir in tomato paste and Italian seasoning; cook for another minute.
4. Pour in crushed tomatoes and beef broth; bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Once the meatballs are ready:
1. Carefully add them into the soup base along with milk.
2. Simmer gently for about 5–10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 5: Serve Your Soup

Finally:
1. Ladle the soup into bread bowls or regular bowls.
2. Top with shredded mozzarella and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Garnish with parsley and add a squeeze of lemon before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Parmesan Meatball Soup!

How to Serve Parmesan Meatball Soup

Parmesan Meatball Soup is a comforting and rich dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a cozy gathering, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.

Serve in Bread Bowls

• Serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a delightful and edible presentation. The bread absorbs the flavors and adds a nice texture.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Top each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or basil to add a burst of color and freshness. This enhances both the appearance and flavor.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Serve alongside slices of crusty bread for dipping. A good sourdough or baguette complements the soup perfectly.

Add Extra Cheese

• Sprinkle additional grated Parmesan or mozzarella on top before serving. Melted cheese adds richness and indulgence to every bite.

Include a Side Salad

• Offer a light side salad, such as Caesar or mixed greens, to balance the hearty soup. This adds freshness and crunch to the meal.

How to Perfect Parmesan Meatball Soup

Perfecting Parmesan Meatball Soup involves attention to detail and some handy tips for cooking. Follow these suggestions to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs, vegetables, and high-quality meat will significantly enhance the flavor of your soup.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you cook! Adjust salt, pepper, and spices according to your preference for a personalized flavor profile.
• Cook Meatballs Carefully: When making meatballs, ensure they’re cooked through but not overdone. Keep them juicy for better texture.
• Simmer Gently: Allow the soup to simmer gently after adding ingredients. This helps meld all flavors together beautifully.
• Consider Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for about 10 minutes after cooking helps deepen flavors before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Parmesan Meatball Soup

Pairing side dishes with Parmesan Meatball Soup can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice, garlic bread complements the flavors of the soup while providing a crunchy texture.
2. Caprese Salad: This fresh salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offers a refreshing contrast to hearty soup.
3. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cheeses, olives, and cured meats provides variety and enhances the Italian theme of your meal.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients while balancing the richness of the soup.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites are perfect for starting off your meal with bold flavors that pair well with meatballs.
6. Cheesy Garlic Knots: Soft knots brushed with garlic butter and sprinkled with cheese are deliciously addictive alongside the soup.
7. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad dressed in olive oil can provide a refreshing contrast that complements hot soup nicely.
8. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters add crunch and are an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Parmesan Meatball Soup, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Using stale breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs and improve texture. Always use fresh or homemade breadcrumbs for the best results.
• Overcrowding the pot: When cooking the meatballs, avoid putting too many in at once. This can cause them to steam instead of brown. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Neglecting seasoning: Seasoning is crucial for flavor. Make sure to taste your broth and adjust seasoning as needed throughout the cooking process.
• Skipping the sauté step: Sautéing vegetables like onions and garlic before adding them to the soup enhances their flavor. Don’t rush this important step.
• Not letting it rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes before serving helps meld the flavors together. Patience pays off in deliciousness!

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The soup can last in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Parmesan Meatball Soup

• Freeze in zip-top bags or freezer-safe containers.
• It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Parmesan Meatball Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Parmesan Meatball Soup?

Parmesan Meatball Soup is a comforting dish featuring tender meatballs made from ground beef and chicken sausage, simmered in a rich tomato-based broth with Parmesan cheese.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meatballs and broth in advance, then combine them when ready to serve for optimal freshness.

How can I customize my Parmesan Meatball Soup?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices! Spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers work great, allowing you to tailor the soup to your taste.

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the meat with plant-based alternatives like lentils or veggie meatballs and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Conclusion

Parmesan Meatball Soup is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize according to your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal on a chilly day or a comforting dinner option, this recipe fits perfectly. Give it a try and enjoy all its flavorful possibilities!