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 lb ground beef; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 cups beef broth; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 zucchini, diced; 1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut; 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz); 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Seasonal Cook Recipes

This hearty Meatball Soup with Seasonal Vegetables is perfect for a cozy dinner. Packed with flavor and nutrients, it’s a comforting dish that warms you up from the inside out.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T22:06:17.943Z

This Meatball Soup with Seasonal Vegetables is a family favorite. Enjoyed during the colder months, it's a dish that brings everyone together around the table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Flavorful meatballs simmered to perfection
Nutritious seasonal vegetables for a healthy boost
A comforting bowl that’s easy to prepare

      

A Cozy Comfort Food

When the temperature drops, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to lift your spirits. This Meatball Soup with Seasonal Vegetables is the epitome of comfort food, combining tender meatballs with a vibrant medley of vegetables. It's a dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also envelops you in a cozy embrace, making it perfect for family dinners or a quiet night in.

The beauty of this soup lies in its versatility. The ingredients can easily be adjusted based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Whether you prefer a heartier soup with potatoes or a lighter version with leafy greens, feel free to get creative. The rich broth and savory meatballs will complement whatever vegetables you choose, ensuring a delicious meal every time.

Nutritional Benefits

This soup is not just comforting; it’s also packed with nutrients. The seasonal vegetables provide a wealth of vitamins and minerals, contributing to your daily intake while adding color and flavor. Carrots and green beans are excellent sources of fiber and antioxidants, promoting digestive health and boosting your immune system.

The meatballs, made from ground beef and enriched with Parmesan cheese, deliver a good dose of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall body function. Combined with the wholesome broth, this dish is a balanced meal that can help fuel your day and keep you feeling satisfied for longer.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the standout features of this Meatball Soup is its suitability for meal prep. You can easily double the recipe and store leftovers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. The flavors only get better as they meld together, making it an ideal candidate for reheating. Just store the soup in airtight containers in the fridge, and enjoy it for up to five days.

For those who like to freeze meals, this soup freezes beautifully. Portion it out and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. This way, you’ll always have a comforting meal ready to go, no matter how busy life gets.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 lb ground beef
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Soup

4 cups beef broth
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 cup green beans, trimmed and cut
1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs

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

Brown the Meatballs

In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the carrots, celery, and zucchini. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, green beans, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Simmer the Soup

Return the meatballs to the pot. Reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and the flavors meld.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Tips for the Best Meatball Soup

To elevate the flavor of your meatballs, consider adding finely chopped herbs or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the mixture. These small additions can make a big difference in taste, enhancing the overall depth of the dish. Also, don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your liking; everyone's palate is different.

For an extra kick, you can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup base. This will give your Meatball Soup a delightful warmth that pairs perfectly with the savory ingredients. Just be sure to start with a small amount and adjust according to your spice preference.

Serving Suggestions

This Meatball Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and hearty soup. Consider adding some cheese on top of the soup before serving for an extra layer of flavor.

For a complete meal, you might serve it alongside a cheese platter or garlic bread. The combination of warm, cheesy bread and savory soup creates a wonderfully satisfying dining experience that will leave your guests asking for more.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used; just add them during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

→ How can I make this soup gluten-free?

You can substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely.

→ Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the meatballs a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.