Cozy Spinach & White Bean Meatball Soup

Introduction

Transform humble spinach and white beans into a hearty, flavorful soup that’s surprisingly quick and easy to make! This recipe is a celebration of simple ingredients elevated by a touch of culinary creativity. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a delicious, warming meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening.

Why This Works

This Spinach and White Bean Meatball Soup recipe works because it expertly balances comforting flavors with ease of preparation. The earthy spinach pairs beautifully with the creamy white beans, creating a rich and satisfying base. The meatballs add a delightful protein boost and textural contrast, while the overall recipe requires minimal effort and easily accessible ingredients. It’s a surefire way to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Key Ingredients

🥬 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
🫘 1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
🧅 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
🌿 1 teaspoon dried oregano
🌿 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
🥚 1 large egg, lightly beaten
🍞 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
🧀 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
🧂 1/2 teaspoon salt
🧂 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
🍅 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
🐔 4 cups chicken broth

Instructions

1️⃣ Prep the Spinach and Beans: Thoroughly thaw and squeeze out excess water from the frozen spinach. Rinse and drain the cannellini beans. This step is crucial for preventing a watery soup.

2️⃣ Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion in a little olive oil (not included in ingredient list) over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes.

3️⃣ Combine Meatball Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the squeezed spinach, beans, oregano, basil, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the meatball mixture.

4️⃣ Form Meatballs: Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs. You can make them slightly smaller or larger depending on your preference.

5️⃣ Brown Meatballs (Optional): For extra flavor, you can lightly brown the meatballs in a skillet before adding them to the soup. This step is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor.

6️⃣ Simmer the Soup: Add the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth to the pot with the sautéed onions and garlic. Bring to a simmer, then gently add the meatballs.

7️⃣ Cook Through: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the flavors have melded.

8️⃣ Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy!

Handy Tips

• Spinach Substitution: If you don’t have frozen spinach, you can use fresh spinach (about 10 ounces). Just make sure to thoroughly wash and chop it before adding it to the meatball mixture. You may need to squeeze out excess water more vigorously.
• Bean Variations: Other white beans like Great Northern beans or cannellini beans can be substituted.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Heat Control

Maintaining a low simmer is key to prevent the soup from boiling over and to ensure the meatballs cook through gently without becoming tough. The soup is done when the meatballs are cooked through and the flavors have melded—usually around 20-25 minutes at a low simmer.

Crunch Factor

This recipe focuses on a hearty, comforting texture. The meatballs provide a pleasing contrast to the creamy soup. If you desire a bit more crunch, you could add a sprinkle of toasted breadcrumbs or chopped fresh herbs as a garnish just before serving.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Prep Ahead: You can prepare the meatball mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
• Flavor Booster: A bay leaf added during simmering will enhance the overall flavor profile. Remove it before serving.
• Easy Cleanup: Line your baking sheet with parchment paper when browning the meatballs to minimize cleanup.

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This soup makes a wonderful gift! Package individual servings in attractive mason jars with a festive ribbon and a personalized label.

Flavor Variations

🌟 Spicy Chipotle: Add a teaspoon of chipotle powder to the meatball mixture for a smoky kick.
🌟 Lemon Herb: Zest and juice of half a lemon added at the end brightens the flavors beautifully. Add fresh herbs like parsley and thyme.
🌟 Italian Sausage: Substitute Italian sausage for a heartier, more savory soup.
🌟 Creamy Coconut Milk: Stir in 1/2 cup of coconut milk at the end for a creamy, tropical twist.

Troubleshooting

• Watery Soup: If the soup is too watery, simmer it uncovered for a longer period to reduce the liquid.
• Tough Meatballs: Overcooked meatballs will be tough. Ensure you cook them gently at a low simmer.
• Ingredient Swaps: Refer to the handy tips section for substitution ideas.

FAQ

• Can I freeze this soup? Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before storing in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Can I make it vegetarian? Yes, substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.
• How can I scale the recipe? You can easily double or triple this recipe by multiplying the ingredient quantities accordingly.
• Is this recipe gluten-free? Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make it gluten-free.
• Can I make it dairy-free? Omit the Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free version.

Conclusion

This Spinach and White Bean Meatball Soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! We encourage you to experiment with the flavor variations and share your culinary creations with friends and family. Enjoy the warmth and deliciousness of this comforting soup!