Slow-Cooked Meatball Soup

Slow-Cooked Meatball Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that simmers to perfection, offering a bowlful of rich flavors and tender meatballs. This recipe features juicy meatballs slowly cooked in a savory tomato broth with an array of vegetables, including carrots, celery, and potatoes. The slow cooking process melds the flavors beautifully, creating a deliciously satisfying soup that’s ideal for cozy dinners or meal prep. With minimal hands-on time and maximum flavor, this meatball soup is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 cups potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup frozen peas
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined, then form into 1-inch meatballs.
2. Brown Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer browned meatballs to a plate and set aside.
3. Cook Vegetables: In the same skillet, add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften.
4. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Place the sautéed vegetables and browned meatballs into the slow cooker. Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Add the cubed potatoes.
5. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. Add Peas: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas. Continue cooking until peas are heated through.
7. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Enjoy this Slow-Cooked Meatball Soup hot, savoring the tender meatballs and flavorful broth that makes for a warm and satisfying meal.