Savory Meatballs for Vegetable Soup 🍲🥩

These savory meatballs are a perfect complement to your favorite vegetable soup, adding rich flavor and texture. They are easy to whip up and take just a little time to prepare. Not only do they enhance your soup, but they can also be enjoyed on their own as a delicious appetizer. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep for the week ahead!

Ingredients

For the meatballs

• 1/4 cup minced onions (for that aromatic touch)
• 2 tablespoons fat or salad oil (for sautéing)
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs (for binding)
• 1/4 cup milk (to soften the bread)
• 1/2 pound ground beef (or your choice of protein)
• 1 egg (to hold it all together)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (to season)
• A sprinkle of snipped parsley (for color and flavor)
• 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese (because cheese makes everything better!)

Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In a small skillet, heat the oil over medium heat and sauté the minced onions until they’re translucent and fragrant.

   🔥 Cooking the onions first brings out their sweetness and adds depth to the meatballs.

2. Mix It Up: In a large mixing bowl, soak the bread crumbs in the milk until soft. Then, add the ground beef, sautéed onions, beaten egg, salt, and snipped parsley. Mix until just combined (do not overwork).

   🥄 For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the mixture.

3. Shape the Meatballs: Form the mixture into approximately 12 small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

4. Chill: Refrigerate the meatballs for about 30 minutes. This step helps them hold their shape while cooking.

5. Cook in Soup: Bring your vegetable soup to a boil and gently drop the meatballs in. Cover and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until cooked through.

   ⏰ Make sure the soup is boiling before adding the meatballs for even cooking!

Variations

• Turkey or Chicken Meatballs: Swap out the beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just remember to add some extra seasoning to keep the flavor punchy! 🌿
• Cheesy Surprise: For added flavor and moisture, stuff a small cube of cheese inside each meatball before cooking. A gooey center is always a hit! 🧀
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate some crushed red pepper flakes or minced jalapeño into the mixture for those who love a bit of heat! 🌶️

Enjoy your hearty vegetable soup with these delightful meatballs that are sure to impress! 🍽️✨