Warm up your soul with a bowl of comforting Meatball Soup with Cheese Tortellini. This satisfying dish combines flavorful meatballs, tender vegetables, and cheesy tortellini in a savory broth that’s perfect for chilly days or cozy evenings at home. Join us as we explore this delicious recipe, complete with FAQs, cook notes, variations, and even keto and low-carb versions to suit different tastes.
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Soup:
- 8 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 9 oz (about 250g) cheese tortellini
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meatballs:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined, then shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Cook the Meatballs:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the meatballs from the pot and set aside.
- Prepare the Soup Base:
- In the same pot, add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add Broth and Simmer:
- Pour in the beef or chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat.
- Cook the Tortellini:
- Once the soup is simmering, add the cheese tortellini and cooked meatballs back into the pot. Allow the soup to simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the tortellini is cooked through and the meatballs are heated.
- Serve:
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese on the side, if desired. Enjoy your delicious Meatball Soup with Cheese Tortellini!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, omit the meatballs and use vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken broth. Add extra vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for added flavor and nutrients.
- Spice it Up: Add a kick of heat to the soup by incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the broth.
- Creamy Variation: For a creamy twist, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half towards the end of cooking to add richness to the broth.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for the meatballs. Substitute cheese tortellini with zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles to reduce carb content. Use a low-carb marinara sauce or diced tomatoes for added flavor.
- Low-Carb Version: Follow the keto substitutions mentioned above, and ensure that the broth used is low in carbs. Opt for lean ground beef or turkey for the meatballs, and increase the amount of vegetables to bulk up the soup without adding extra carbs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use store-bought meatballs instead of making them from scratch? A: Yes, you can use store-bought meatballs to save time. Simply add them to the soup during the last 10 minutes of cooking to heat through.
Q: Can I freeze this soup? A: Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
Q: Can I use other types of pasta instead of tortellini? A: Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite pasta shape such as penne, rotini, or fusilli if you don’t have tortellini on hand.
Q: How can I make this soup gluten-free? A: To make this soup gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for the meatballs, and ensure that the cheese tortellini or pasta you use is gluten-free.
Conclusion:
This Meatball Soup with Cheese Tortellini is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. With its flavorful broth, hearty meatballs, and cheesy tortellini, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal or hosting a gathering with loved ones, this soup is a delicious choice that will warm both hearts and bellies. Prepare a pot of this irresistible soup and savor the comforting flavors with every spoonful!
