Have you ever craved a warm, comforting dish that feels like a hug in a bowl? If so, you’re in for a treat with this Meatball Stew! This dish is perfect for chilly evenings, bringing together tender meatballs, hearty vegetables, and a rich broth that simmer together to create an unforgettable flavor experience. Not only is this stew simple to prepare, but it’s also a great way to feed the family without spending hours in the kitchen. Ready to dive into this delicious recipe? Let’s get started!
Ingredients List
To make this delicious Meatball Stew, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or turkey
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for a low-carb option)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Stew:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 2 cups chopped carrots
- 2 cups diced potatoes (or cauliflower for a low-carb option)
- 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Timing
This Meatball Stew is quick and easy to make, perfect for a busy week night! Here’s a breakdown of the timing:
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 55-60 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying option packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Step 2: Form the Meatballs
Using your hands, form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a plate or a baking sheet. This recipe should yield around 20 meatballs.
Step 3: Sauté the Meatballs
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook for about 5 minutes or until they’re browned on all sides. They don’t need to be fully cooked yet, as they will finish cooking in the stew. Remove the meatballs from the pot and set aside.
Step 4: Cook the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the diced onions and cook for about 4-5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 5: Build the Stew Base
Pour in the broth and add the diced tomatoes, carrots, potatoes, green beans, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Step 6: Add the Meatballs
Return the browned meatballs to the pot, ensuring they are submerged in the broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover and let cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender and the meatballs are cooked through.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once everything is fully cooked and aromatic, ladle the stew into bowls. You can garnish with more fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your Meatball Stew hot, with crusty bread or whole-grain crackers!
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutritional information per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 4g
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
If you’re looking to enhance the health benefits of this recipe, here are some alternatives:
- Choose lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lower-fat version.
- Use cauliflower instead of potatoes for a lower-carb option while still bringing a comforting texture.
- Add more greens, like kale or spinach, to increase nutritional value and add more color!
Serving Suggestions
This Meatball Stew is fantastic by itself, but you can enhance your meal with these serving suggestions:
- With Crusty Bread: Pair it with crusty whole-grain or gluten-free bread to soak up the hearty broth.
- As a Side Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad to add nutrition and lightness to your meal.
- Garnished with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top can elevate the dish and add freshness!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Be careful not to overcook the meatballs; they can dry out if they cook too long in the pot.
- Don’t forget to taste your stew! Adjust seasonings as necessary to enhance the flavors.
- Keep the lid on while cooking to retain moisture and flavors in the stew.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
If you have any leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, do so on low heat to keep the meat tender. This dish also freezes well; simply place portions in freezer-safe containers for easy meals later on—just thaw and reheat when ready!
Conclusion
This Creamy Italian Meatball Soup is not only a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor, but it’s also an easy recipe to follow that results in a satisfying meal. I encourage you to try this recipe and see for yourself how delicious it can be! Please share your experience in the comments below, and consider subscribing for more delightful recipes!
FAQs
Can I use frozen meatballs for this recipe?
Yes! You can add frozen meatballs directly to the soup; just adjust the cooking time to ensure they are fully heated through.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients and store them in the refrigerator, or cook it all ahead of time and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
How can I thicken the stew?
If you prefer a thicker stew, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) during the last 10 minutes of cooking.