This Meatball Orzo Soup is a comforting and filling dish that combines succulent meatballs, tender orzo pasta, and flavorful vegetables in a rich and savory broth. It is a perfect choice for a cozy dinner or a satisfying lunch. With its blend of Italian-inspired flavors, this soup is sure to become a favorite among your family and friends.
Ingredients
- For the meatballs:
- - 1 pound ground beef
- - 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- - 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- - 1 egg
- - 2 cloves garlic, minced
- - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- - 1/2 teaspoon salt
- - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- For the soup:
- - 1 tablespoon olive oil
- - 1 onion, diced
- - 2 carrots, diced
- - 2 celery stalks, diced
- - 3 cloves garlic, minced
- - 6 cups chicken broth
- - 1 cup orzo pasta
- - 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- - Salt and pepper to taste
- - Parmesan cheese, for serving
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Add the chicken broth to the pot and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and add the meatballs. Simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
- Meanwhile, cook the orzo pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Add the cooked orzo pasta and fresh spinach leaves to the pot of soup. Stir well and let simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the Meatball Orzo Soup hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese.
- Enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Meatball Orzo Soup is a popular Italian-American dish that has gained popularity worldwide for its delicious flavors and comforting qualities.
Orzo is a type of pasta that resembles rice grains. It is perfect for soups as it adds a unique texture and absorbs the flavors of the broth.
This soup is a great way to sneak in some nutritious spinach, which adds freshness and color to the dish.
Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated for a quick and easy meal.