Description
A comforting Italian soup filled with savory meatballs, tender pasta, and fresh greens that creates bonds over shared meals.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup small pasta (like orzo or acini di pepe)
- 2 cups fresh greens (spinach or escarole)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Use your hands to mix everything gently but thoroughly. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about one inch in diameter.
- Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they turn translucent and fragrant, about 4–5 minutes.
- Carefully add the meatballs to the pot, browning them on all sides for about 6–8 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the small pasta of your choice, cooking it according to the package directions until it reaches al dente texture, usually around 6–8 minutes.
- Incorporate the fresh greens, oregano, and red pepper flakes into the soup, allowing everything to simmer until the greens wilt down beautifully.
- Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese for a touch of indulgence.
Notes
Make-ahead Tips: Prepare the meatballs in advance for enhanced flavor. Customize with seasonal vegetables or a splash of cream for a luxurious broth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Italian soup, meatball soup, comfort food, family recipe, wedding soup