Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup
Highlighted under: Homestyle Meals
Warm up with this comforting bowl of Swedish Meatball Soup, a perfect blend of flavors and textures.
This Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup is a family favorite, combining tender meatballs with a creamy broth and fresh vegetables. Perfect for chilly evenings!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and savory flavors that warm the soul
- Creamy texture with a hint of spice
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners
The Comfort of Homemade Soup
There's something undeniably comforting about a homemade soup, especially during the chilly months. This Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup stands out not just for its rich flavors but also for the warmth it brings to the table. The combination of tender meatballs and fresh vegetables creates a nourishing dish that's perfect for family gatherings or a quiet night in.
Making soup from scratch allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring that every bite is packed with wholesome goodness. The creamy broth, enhanced with dill and soy sauce, is both satisfying and indulgent, making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking a hearty meal.
Flavor Profile and Ingredients
The beauty of this soup lies in its balance of flavors. Ground beef meatballs add a savory depth, while the combination of onions and carrots contributes a subtle sweetness. The addition of baby spinach not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds a vibrant color to the dish, making it visually appealing.
Don’t underestimate the power of spices! Garlic powder and dill elevate the soup, providing layers of flavor that dance on your palate. The creamy texture from heavy cream creates a comforting mouthfeel, ensuring that each spoonful warms you from the inside out.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're hosting a casual dinner party or simply looking for a quick weeknight meal, this Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup is an excellent choice. It’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy individuals who still want to enjoy a home-cooked meal.
Serve it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete dinner. This soup also makes great leftovers; the flavors intensify as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy hearty lunches throughout the week.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
For the Soup
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
Enjoy the delightful flavors of this cozy soup!
Instructions
Prepare the Meatballs
In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into small meatballs.
Cook the Meatballs
In a large pot, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Make the Soup
In the same pot, add onion and carrots. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Combine and Finish
Add the meatballs back to the pot along with spinach, heavy cream, soy sauce, and dill. Cook for an additional 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Tips for Perfect Meatballs
To achieve tender meatballs, avoid overmixing the meat mixture. Combine the ingredients just until they are mixed; overworking can lead to tough meatballs. Additionally, using a mix of beef and pork can add more flavor and moisture to your meatballs.
When cooking the meatballs, ensure the oil is hot enough before adding them to the pot. This helps to create a nice sear, locking in the juices and giving the meatballs a delicious golden crust.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through. If the soup thickens too much, simply add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as described above.
Variations and Add-Ins
Feel free to customize this soup to your taste. Add in other vegetables such as peas or corn for extra texture and flavor. For a spicy kick, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Alternatively, you can swap out the ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you're looking for a vegetarian version, try using plant-based meat alternatives and vegetable broth for a delicious twist that everyone can enjoy.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen meatballs?
Yes, you can use frozen meatballs to save time. Just add them directly to the soup and simmer until heated through.
→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative if you want a lighter soup.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, you can make it ahead of time. Just reheat on the stove when ready to serve.
Cozy Swedish Meatball Soup
Warm up with this comforting bowl of Swedish Meatball Soup, a perfect blend of flavors and textures.
Created by: Emma Johnson
Recipe Type: Homestyle Meals
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
For the Soup
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp dill
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into small meatballs.
In a large pot, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, add onion and carrots. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
Add the meatballs back to the pot along with spinach, heavy cream, soy sauce, and dill. Cook for an additional 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 25g