Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef (or ground turkey/chicken)
- 1/2 cup Bread Crumbs (seasoned or plain)
- 1 Egg
- 1 Onion, chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 4 cups Broth (chicken, beef, or vegetable)
- 2 Carrots, chopped
- 2 Celery stalks, chopped
- 1/2 cup Peas
- 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp Dried Thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground meat, bread crumbs, minced garlic, chopped onion, egg, and spices. Mix gently until just combined, then form into bite-sized balls.
- Brown the Meatballs: In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, cooking until golden on all sides.
- Sauté Aromatics: Remove the meatballs and set them aside. In the same pot, add more oil if needed, and sauté the chopped onions and garlic until the onions turn translucent.
- Add Broth and Vegetables: Pour in your chosen broth, stirring to deglaze the pot. Add in chopped carrots and celery, bringing the mixture to a simmer.
- Integrate Meatballs: Gently nestle the browned meatballs back into the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 20–25 minutes.
- Finish it Up: Stir in any fresh herbs and taste for seasoning adjustments. Serve hot, with a sprinkle of extra parsley for freshness.
Notes
Serve alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. This soup freezes beautifully; allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Paleo