- Make the Meatballs:
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined but do not overmix.
- Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Set aside.
- Prepare the Soup Base:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Meatballs:
- Add the meatballs to the pot and cook for a few minutes, gently turning them until they are browned on all sides. They don’t need to be cooked through at this point.
- Add Broth and Simmer:
- Pour in the beef or chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes, basil, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a simmer.
- Once simmering, reduce the heat, cover, and let cook for about 10 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
- Add Pasta and Greens:
- Add the pasta to the soup and continue cooking according to the pasta package’s directions, usually about 10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente.
- A few minutes before the pasta is done, stir in the chopped spinach or kale and let it wilt in the hot soup.
- Serve:
- Once the pasta is cooked and the greens have wilted, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Serve the meatball soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Tips:
- Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as zucchini, peas, or bell peppers, depending on your preference and what you have on hand.
- Make-Ahead: The meatballs can be made ahead and frozen for a quick and easy addition to the soup. Just add them directly to the broth from the freezer; they will need a few extra minutes to cook through.
- Storing: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Note that the pasta may absorb some of the broth when stored, so you may need to add a little water or broth when reheating.
Enjoy your hearty and comforting Meatball Soup, perfect for a cozy meal any day of the week!