Tomato Meatball Soup

When you think about comfort food, tomato meatball soup likely comes to mind, and for good reason. Its warm, rich flavors can turn any cold evening into a cozy experience. You might appreciate how this dish balances nutrition and taste, making it a staple for family dinners or meal prep. But have you considered the variations you can explore, from the type of meat you use to the spices that can elevate the broth? Let’s explore what makes this soup not just a meal, but a canvas for creativity in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll find plenty of reasons to love this Tomato Meatball Soup! First, it’s packed with nutritious vegetables, making it a filling meal that won’t weigh you down. Each serving offers a good amount of protein—about 23%—so you’ll feel satisfied without excess calories. Some versions can be as low as 80 calories per serving, making it a smart choice for any diet. Plus, you’re getting vitamins and minerals like potassium and dietary fiber with every bowl.

Preparation is a breeze, too. You can bake the meatballs in just 12 minutes, and if you’re in a hurry, some versions are microwave-ready for a quick meal. The broth is easy to make by simmering vegetables and bouillon cubes, and the whole soup cooks in about 10-15 minutes. Additionally, the soup is rich in vitamins from tomatoes and basil, enhancing its nutritional profile.

What’s great is its versatility. You can swap in your favorite ground meat or any vegetables you have on hand, adjusting the spices to fit your taste. This soup is also perfect for batch cooking or freezing, allowing you to enjoy it whenever you need a comforting meal.

With so many benefits, this Tomato Meatball Soup is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!

History

The history of Tomato Meatball Soup intertwines two beloved culinary traditions: tomato soup and meatballs.

Tomato soup first gained popularity in the 19th century, with the earliest published recipe appearing in N. K. M. Lee’s “The Cook’s Own Book” in 1832. Eliza Leslie’s recipe in 1857 further helped spread its appeal. Curiously, before the Civil War, many Americans avoided tomatoes due to the belief that they were poisonous. This perception changed over time, especially after the Campbell Soup Company introduced condensed tomato soup in 1897, making it a staple in many households. Crushed tomatoes are made with only 2 ingredients for pure tomato flavor, enhancing the richness of the soup.

On the other hand, meatballs have a rich history, with Swedish meatballs documented as early as 1755. They became widely recognized after being introduced in IKEA cafeterias in 1985. Meatballs are found in various global cuisines, each with unique ingredients and preparation methods.

Although early tomato soup recipes rarely included meatballs, modern versions often combine these two elements. The hearty mix of flavors creates a comforting dish enjoyed in many cultures.

Today, Tomato Meatball Soup is celebrated worldwide, showcasing the evolution and fusion of these culinary traditions.

Recipe

Tomato Meatball Soup Recipe

This comforting Tomato Meatball Soup is a delightful dish that combines the heartiness of meatballs with the rich flavors of a savory tomato broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is both satisfying and easy to prepare. You can customize the soup by using your choice of ground meat, and it can easily accommodate various dietary preferences with simple substitutions. The broth combines chicken broth, beef broth, and blended tomatoes to create a depth of flavor that enhances the overall dish.

The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a fragrant and flavorful base that complements the tender meatballs perfectly. Whether you prefer to bake or sauté your meatballs, this recipe provides flexibility in preparation. Additionally, the soup can be made creamy with the addition of heavy cream, or kept light with just the broth. Garnish with fresh herbs and cheese to elevate the dish further!

Ingredients
– Ground beef, ground turkey, or ground chicken
– Almond flour or all-purpose flour
– Egg
– Salt
– Crushed red pepper
– Olive oil or butter
– Garlic
– Onions
– Bell peppers (optional)
– Tomato paste
– Hot sauce
– Dried basil
– Oregano
– Thyme
– Vegetable broth, beef broth, or chicken broth
– Diced tomatoes
– Cauliflower rice or pasta (optional)
– Heavy cream (optional)
– Fresh spinach
– Fresh basil (for garnish)
– Ricotta cheese (for garnish)
– Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
– Pearl couscous (optional)

Cooking Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a mixing bowl, combine your choice of ground meat, egg, flour, salt, and crushed red pepper. Mix well until fully combined, then use a 1/2 tbsp scoop to form the mixture into mini meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 12 minutes, or alternatively, sauté them in olive oil in batches for 2-3 minutes until browned.
In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Sauté chopped garlic, onions, and bell peppers (if using) until softened and fragrant. This should take about 5 minutes.
Add the tomato paste, hot sauce, and spices (dried basil, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper) to the pot. Cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently to incorporate the spices into the mixture.
Pour in your choice of broth and diced tomatoes. If you’re using cauliflower rice or pasta, add it at this stage. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
If you prefer a creamy texture, blend the soup base until smooth. Then, add the cooked meatballs back into the pot and let them simmer with the soup for an additional 10 minutes. If you’re using pasta, add it now and cook until al dente.
Stir in heavy cream, if desired, and add fresh spinach. Cook until the spinach wilts. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh basil, ricotta cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Optionally, add pearl couscous or baby spinach just before serving.

Extra Tips

When preparing your Tomato Meatball Soup, feel free to experiment with additional vegetables for extra nutrition and flavor. Carrots, zucchini, or even kale can be great additions.

If you want a spicier kick, increase the amount of hot sauce or crushed red pepper. This soup also stores well, so make a larger batch and enjoy the leftovers for a quick meal throughout the week!

Final Thoughts

Savoring a bowl of Tomato Meatball Soup brings warmth and comfort, making it an ideal choice for any dinner table. This soup not only pleases your taste buds but also offers a nutritious meal option. With a good balance of protein, carbs, and healthy fats, it provides a satisfying experience.

For instance, a pouch of Plum tomato meatball soup contains 130 calories and is rich in vitamin A and iron, contributing to your daily nutritional needs. Additionally, the high protein content from the meatballs makes it a filling choice for any meal.

When preparing this dish, you can customize it to suit your preferences. Whether you opt for different meats or toss in various vegetables, your soup can reflect your tastes. Remember to keep an eye on sodium levels; using reduced sodium ingredients can make it healthier without sacrificing flavor.

Serving suggestions enhance the meal further. Consider adding pasta shells separately or garnishing with parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for an appealing finish.

This Tomato Meatball Soup isn’t just food; it’s a versatile meal that can fit into various dietary choices. So, gather your ingredients, embrace your creativity, and enjoy a comforting bowl of this delicious soup tonight!

FAQ

Curiosity often leads to great questions, especially when it comes to cooking Tomato Meatball Soup. You might wonder about the best ground meat to use. Ground beef is popular, but turkey or chicken works just as well.

To bind your meatballs, eggs are essential, and you can choose between flour, breadcrumbs, or even almond flour for texture.

When making the soup, sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in oil to build flavor. You can bake or broil the meatballs beforehand, which helps them hold their shape. Additionally, this soup is nutritionally balanced with protein, carbs, and vegetables, making it a wholesome option for any meal.

Simmer the broth, combining the flavors, and don’t forget you can blend the soup for a creamier consistency if you prefer.

If you’re looking to customize, consider using reduced-sodium broth or adding pasta. You can adjust spices to fit your taste, and feel free to mix in different vegetables like bell peppers.

Nutritionally, each serving can be around 124 calories, with approximately 4g of fat and 41mg of cholesterol.

Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, Tomato Meatball Soup is versatile and satisfying, making it a great choice for any meal.