Spaghetti and Meatball Soup

Spaghetti and Meatball Soup RECIPES

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or pork (or a mix)
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried parsley)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Soup:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz/400 g) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups (1 liter) chicken or beef broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup uncooked spaghetti, broken into 2-inch pieces
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil and Parmesan cheese, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Make the Meatballs:
   • In a large bowl, combine all meatball ingredients and mix until just combined. Avoid over-mixing.
   • Roll into small, bite-sized meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter) and set aside.
2. Cook the Meatballs:
   • Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
   • Add the meatballs in batches, cooking until browned on all sides (they don’t need to be fully cooked).
   • Remove the meatballs and set aside.
3. Prepare the Soup Base:
   • In the same pot, add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil.
   • Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery for 5–6 minutes, until softened.
   • Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Build the Soup:
   • Add the diced tomatoes, broth, water, basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
   • Bring to a gentle boil.
5. Simmer the Meatballs:
   • Return the browned meatballs to the pot.
   • Lower the heat and simmer for 20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and the meatballs to cook through.
6. Add the Pasta:
   • Stir in the spaghetti and cook for 8–10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Season and Serve:
   • Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
   • Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.

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Enjoy this comforting and hearty soup with a slice of crusty bread! 🍲