A hearty, cozy tomato-based soup filled with tender Parmesan meatballs, creamy white beans, and aromatic vegetables, finished with fresh herbs and extra cheese for a rustic, satisfying meal.
Author:Mayaa
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:40 minutes
Total Time:1 hour
Yield:6 servings
Category:Soup
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Italian-Inspired
Diet:Halal
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
In a bowl, mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, salt, and black pepper until combined.
Roll mixture into small meatballs and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown meatballs on all sides, then remove and set aside.
In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5–6 minutes.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
Add crushed tomatoes and broth, stirring well.
Add white beans, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using.
Return meatballs to the pot and simmer for 25–30 minutes, until meatballs are cooked through.
Finish with fresh herbs and serve hot with extra Parmesan on top.
Notes
Ground turkey can be used for lighter meatballs.
Add spinach or kale near the end for extra vegetables.