Beef Meatball Soup

This heart-warming soup has an intoxicating aroma that will have you hooked from the first whiff!

Ingredients

Servings: 4

• 16 ounces ground beef
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (Italian or regular)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium carrots, coarsely diced
• 2 medium potatoes, coarsely diced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 34 ounces of beef broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, egg, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and a little salt and pepper. Shape the mixture into balls that are slightly smaller than golf balls.
2. Brown the Meatballs: Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown them on all sides. You want them to develop a nice color but not cook through thoroughly. Once browned, set the meatballs aside, including any cooking juices from the pan.
3. Cook the Vegetables: Heat the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced potatoes, and sauté for a few minutes until they begin to soften. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute.
4. Add Broth and Simmer: Pour the beef broth and boil the mixture gently. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the vegetables become tender.
5. Add Meatballs to the Soup: Add the browned meatballs and their cooking liquid to the pot. Continue simmering for 10 minutes or until the vegetables are fully cooked and the meatballs are heated through.
6. Season and Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.

Enjoy a comforting bowl of this delicious beef meatball soup, perfect for warming up on a chilly day!