Crock Pot Italian Meatball Soup
Crock Pot Italian Meatball Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together tender meatballs, flavorful vegetables, and satisfying pasta, all simmered in a rich tomato-based broth. This gluten-free recipe is perfect for those seeking a wholesome meal that's both delicious and easy to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Convenient Preparation: Utilizing the slow cooker allows for a hands-off cooking experience, making it ideal for busy days.
- Nutritious and Balanced: Packed with protein-rich meatballs, fiber-filled vegetables, and energy-boosting pasta, this soup offers a well-rounded meal.
- Gluten-Free Adaptable: Easily tailored for gluten-free diets by using gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
- Versatile Ingredients: The recipe is flexible, allowing for substitutions based on personal preferences or dietary needs.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
-
For the Meatballs:
- Lean ground beef
- Egg
- Gluten-free all-purpose flour or breadcrumbs
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
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For the Soup:
- Onion
- Carrots
- Bell peppers
- Crushed tomatoes
- Chicken broth or beef broth
- Italian seasoning
- Bay leaves
- Salt and pepper
- Gluten-free pasta
Directions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, egg, flour or breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well incorporated and form into small meatballs.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onions, carrots, and bell peppers until softened.
- Assemble the Soup: In the crock pot, add the sautéed vegetables, crushed tomatoes, broth, Italian seasoning, bay leaves, and prepared meatballs.
- Slow Cook: Set the crock pot to low and cook for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the meatballs are fully cooked.
- Add the Pasta: In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the gluten-free pasta and stir to combine. Let it cook until tender.
- Serve: Remove bay leaves and serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs or grated cheese if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours on low, or 3 to 4 hours on high
Variations
- Turkey or Chicken: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.
- Extra Veggies: Include zucchini, spinach, or kale for added nutrients.
- Different Pasta: Use any type of pasta, such as penne, rotini, or orzo, based on preference.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, adding extra broth if needed.
FAQs
How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
Add the pasta in the last 30 minutes of cooking to keep it from becoming too soft.
Can I use pre-made meatballs?
Yes, store-bought frozen meatballs work well. Add them directly to the crock pot.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, simply ensure your ingredients are dairy-free, and avoid adding cheese for garnish.
What’s the best type of broth to use?
Both chicken and beef broth work well, but beef broth provides a richer flavor.
Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?
Yes, simmer on low heat for about 1 hour, adding pasta in the last 10 minutes.
How do I make this recipe keto-friendly?
Omit the pasta and use low-carb vegetables like zucchini or cauliflower.
What can I serve with this soup?
It pairs well with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before reheating.
How do I thicken the broth?
For a thicker consistency, blend a portion of the soup or add a cornstarch slurry.
Can I use a different type of protein?
Absolutely! Try lamb, or plant-based meat alternatives.
Conclusion
Crock Pot Italian Meatball Soup is a cozy and flavorful dish that’s easy to make and packed with wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious weeknight dinner or a meal-prep-friendly soup, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting bowl of homemade goodness!
Crock Pot Italian Meatball Soup
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Crock Pot Italian Meatball Soup is a hearty and comforting dish made with tender meatballs, vibrant vegetables, and gluten-free pasta, all simmered in a rich tomato-based broth. This slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a flavorful, nutritious, and hands-off meal that the whole family will love.
- Author: Janet
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes - 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup gluten-free all-purpose flour or breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Soup:
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth or beef broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 bay leaves
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup gluten-free pasta
Instructions
-
Prepare the Meatballs
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, egg, flour or breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix well and shape into small meatballs.
-
Sauté the Vegetables
- In a skillet over medium heat, sauté onions, carrots, and bell peppers until softened.
-
Assemble the Soup
- In the crock pot, add sautéed vegetables, crushed tomatoes, broth, Italian seasoning, bay leaves, and prepared meatballs.
-
Slow Cook
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until meatballs are fully cooked.
-
Add the Pasta
- In the last 30 minutes of cooking, stir in the gluten-free pasta and let it cook until tender.
-
Serve
- Remove bay leaves and serve hot. Garnish with fresh herbs or grated cheese if desired.
Notes
- To keep pasta from becoming mushy, add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Use pre-made frozen meatballs for an easier version.
- Make it dairy-free by skipping the cheese garnish.