Beef Meatball Soup

There’s something magical about a steaming bowl of Beef Meatball Soup that brings me right back to my childhood. I can still remember those chilly winter evenings, huddled in the kitchen with my family, the rich aroma wafting through the house. My mom would be stirring a pot of soup, and the excitement was palpable as we waited for dinner. This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for cozy nights when the frost is nipping at your nose.

As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, there’s no better time to whip up this Beef Meatball Soup. It’s hearty enough to satisfy the hungriest of bellies while being simple enough to bring the family together. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this soup is a reminder that comfort food is truly the best kind of food. So, let’s dive in and make some magic happen in the kitchen!

Why You’ll Love "Beef Meatball Soup"

• This soup comes together in just about 50 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
• With only a handful of ingredients, you’ll find it’s both easy to make and easy on the budget.
• It’s family-friendly, appealing to both kids and adults alike; everyone loves those tender meatballs!
• This soup is freezer-friendly, so you can make a big batch and enjoy it later.
• It’s versatile! You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or spices.
• The leftovers are even better the next day, making it a fantastic meal prep option.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• For the Meatballs:
  • 1 lb. grass-fed ground beef (85/15 blend for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture)
  • ½ cup gluten-free panko breadcrumbs (great for texture; regular breadcrumbs work too)
  • 1 large egg (binds the meatballs together)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is best for flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus more for serving)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (feel free to adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (a classic herb that complements beef beautifully)
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (adds a nice kick)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided (for browning the meatballs)
• For the Soup:
  • 1 cup diced yellow onion (about 1 medium onion; adds sweetness)
  • 1 cup peeled and diced carrot (about 1 large carrot; adds color and sweetness)
  • 1 cup diced celery (about 2 large stalks; for that classic soup flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (helps season the vegetables)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (adds depth to the broth)
  • 1 tablespoon cassava flour (a great thickener; can substitute with all-purpose flour)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste (for richness and color)
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (adds a touch of acidity)
  • 2 tablespoons coconut aminos (a soy sauce alternative; adds umami)
  • 2 cups peeled and diced yellow potatoes (about 1 large potato; adds heartiness)
  • 4 cups beef bone broth (I like Kettle & Fire for its rich flavor)
  • 6 sprigs fresh thyme (for a fresh herb finish)
  • ½ cup frozen peas (for a pop of color and sweetness)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating up, you can get started on those delicious meatballs.

Make the Meatballs

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 lb. of grass-fed ground beef, ½ cup of gluten-free panko breadcrumbs, 1 large egg, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of finely chopped parsley, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and ½ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.
2. Use your hands (yes, get in there!) to mix everything together until well combined. You want that mixture to be cohesive but not overworked.
3. Once mixed, form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. This should yield about 20 meatballs.

Brown the Meatballs

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
2. Carefully add the meatballs to the pot, making sure not to overcrowd them. Brown them on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Once browned, remove the meatballs from the pot and set them aside on a plate. Don’t worry if they’re not cooked all the way through; they’ll finish cooking in the soup.

Prepare the Soup Base

1. In the same pot, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed, then toss in 1 cup of diced yellow onion, 1 cup of peeled and diced carrot, and 1 cup of diced celery.
2. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’ve softened a bit and the onion is translucent.
3. Next, stir in 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 tablespoon of cassava flour, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, and 2 tablespoons of coconut aminos. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to let those flavors mingle.

Combine Ingredients

1. Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add 2 cups of peeled and diced yellow potatoes and 4 cups of beef bone broth to the pot.
2. Carefully return the browned meatballs to the pot as well.
3. Increase the heat to bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low to let it simmer.

Finish the Soup

1. Let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the meatballs are cooked through. You can use a meat thermometer to ensure the meatballs reach an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C).
2. Finally, stir in 6 sprigs of fresh thyme and ½ cup of frozen peas. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to warm through.
3. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed before serving. It’s going to be delicious, trust me!

Variations

• For a spicy kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the meatball mixture.
• Swap out the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Incorporate seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
• Use quinoa or brown rice instead of potatoes for a grainy twist.
• Try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Serve the Beef Meatball Soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple side salad. For a cozy touch, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese on top!

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This soup also freezes well; just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen it up.

Helpful Notes

• If you’re gluten-free, ensure all ingredients, like panko and broth, are certified gluten-free.
• For a dairy-free option, skip any cheese toppings and consider coconut milk for creaminess.
• Want extra veggies? Feel free to add spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking.
• Don’t have cassava flour? All-purpose flour or cornstarch can be used as a thickener.
• Adjust seasoning based on your taste – more herbs or spices can elevate the flavors!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Beef Meatball Soup?

Yes, you can freeze Beef Meatball Soup! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.

What can I substitute for beef in this recipe?

You can easily substitute the beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives if you're looking for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times as necessary to ensure everything is fully cooked!

How do I make this soup spicier?

To add some heat, consider mixing in crushed red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or even a few dashes of hot sauce to the meatball mixture or the soup itself. Just taste as you go to find the perfect level of spice for you!

Final Thoughts

So there you have it—your very own Beef Meatball Soup, ready to warm up your kitchen and your heart! I can’t wait for you to experience the comforting flavors and the cozy vibes that come with each bowl. Trust me, this recipe is going to become a staple in your home. Gather your loved ones around the table, share some laughs, and enjoy every delicious spoonful. Remember, cooking is all about making memories, so have fun with it! Happy cooking, and I hope you enjoy this beautiful dish as much as I do!