“`html
There’s something deeply comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it features hearty meatballs and tender potatoes. This Meatballs and Potatoes Soup is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a simple midweek meal. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is straightforward and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll fall in love with this recipe for its simplicity and heartiness. The meatballs add a rich, savory depth, while the potatoes and vegetables create a wholesome, filling base. It’s a versatile dish that can be adjusted to your taste, and its slow-cooked perfection means you can set it and forget it, with a delicious meal waiting for you hours later.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Slow cooker
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon for stirring
Ingredients
- 4 cups of beef broth
- 4 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 6 medium-sized red potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 20 frozen meatballs
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 stalks of celery, chopped
- 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
First Step:
Begin by peeling and chopping all your vegetables. Pour the beef broth into your slow cooker.
Second Step:
Add the frozen meatballs to the slow cooker. Then, add the chopped vegetables and stir everything together to combine.
Third Step:
Add fresh thyme, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper to the mixture. If you prefer a spicy kick, you can also add two teaspoons of hot sauce. Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 4 hours.
Once done, serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Ensure all your vegetables are chopped to a uniform size for even cooking.
- If you prefer a thicker broth, consider adding a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch mixed with cold water halfway through cooking.
Additional Tips or Variations
For serving, consider pairing the soup with white buttered bread, a crispy dinner roll, or breadsticks. If you thicken the broth, this soup can also be served in bread bowls for a rustic presentation.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
Serving Size: 1
Amount Per Serving:
- Calories: 80
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 260mg
- Sodium: 40mg
- Carbohydrates: 140g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 12g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen ones?
Yes, you can use fresh meatballs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed since fresh meatballs may cook faster than frozen ones.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the meatballs with plant-based meatballs and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy making and eating this delightful Meatballs and Potatoes Soup as much as we do. It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. We’d love to hear about your experience with this recipe, so please try it out and share your thoughts with us!
“`