This hearty Meatball Bean Soup is packed with little meatballs, tender beans, and lots of tasty veggies. It’s the perfect bowl of comfort on a chilly day!
I love how filling this soup is, and it’s like a warm hug in a bowl. Pair it with some bread, and you’ll be happy as a clam! Trust me, leftovers make for a great lunch too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I like using a mix of beef and pork for more flavor and juiciness, but feel free to use just beef, turkey, or even meat alternatives for a lighter option.
Breadcrumbs: If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can crush up some crackers or oats as a substitute. They work just as well to help bind the meatballs.
Kale or Spinach: Both greens add nutrients. If you can’t find kale or prefer something else, try Swiss chard or even cabbage as a good substitute.
White Beans: Cannellini or navy beans are perfect here, but you could swap them for chickpeas or lentils if you like. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
How Do I Brown the Meatballs Without Overcooking Them?
Browning meatballs is key to getting that delicious deep flavor. Start by heating oil in your skillet over medium heat. This helps create a nice crust on the meatballs. Here’s how:
- Form meatballs about 1 inch in size for even cooking.
- Cook them in batches to avoid crowding; this helps them brown better.
- Cook on each side for about 5 minutes, until golden brown, but they shouldn’t be fully cooked through.
Set them aside on a plate while you prep the soup, and they will finish cooking in the delicious broth.
What’s the Best Way to Sauté Vegetables for the Soup?
Sautéing vegetables creates a flavorful base for your soup. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat oil over medium heat and add onions first. Cook them until they become translucent.
- Add garlic later on; too long in the hot oil can burn it and make it bitter.
- Once the onions and garlic smell great, toss in carrots and celery, cooking everything until softened.
This step builds the flavor of your soup and sets the stage for all the tasty ingredients coming together.
The BEST Meatball Bean Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil for frying
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2-3 stalks celery, diced
- 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes, with juice
- 6 cups low sodium beef or chicken broth
- 2 (15 oz) cans white beans (cannellini or navy beans), drained and rinsed
- 3-4 cups chopped kale or spinach
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or Italian herb blend
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Meatball Bean Soup takes about 20 minutes to prep and 30-40 minutes to cook, for a total of around 60 minutes from start to serving. Perfect for a cozy meal any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together gently until just combined—be careful not to over-mix, or the meatballs could turn tough. Form into small 1-inch meatballs.
2. Brown the Meatballs:
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Add the meatballs in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Brown for about 5 minutes per batch, turning them carefully to get an even color around all sides. They don’t need to be fully cooked now; just nicely browned. Set them aside on a plate.
3. Prepare the Soup Base:
In a large soup pot, heat another tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté these vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they are nice and softened.
4. Add Liquids and Seasonings:
Add the diced tomatoes (including the juice), broth, and Italian seasoning to the pot. Stir everything together well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Add the Meatballs:
Carefully add the browned meatballs back into the soup pot. Let everything simmer gently for 20-25 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and all the flavors have melded together beautifully.
6. Add Beans and Greens:
Add the drained and rinsed white beans and chopped kale (or spinach) to the pot. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes until the greens are tender but still bright and fresh.
7. Taste and Adjust:
Give the soup a taste and add more salt and pepper if needed. Don’t be shy—seasoning is key to bringing out all the wonderful flavors.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread on the side for dipping. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this fantastic soup!
This Meatball Bean Soup is sure to become a favorite, with its tender meatballs, creamy beans, and nutritious greens all coming together in a deliciously savory broth!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for the Meatballs?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the ground beef in the fridge or under cold running water before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will ensure even mixing and cooking.
What Type of Beans Can I Use?
Cannellini beans and navy beans are perfect choices, but you can also use great northern beans or even chickpeas if you prefer! Just remember to drain and rinse them well before adding them to the soup.
Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based alternative, use flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with water as an egg replacer, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth. You can also skip the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan version.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If it gets too thick, just add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency!
