Comforting Beef Meatballs in Savory Vegetable Broth

Warm up with a hearty bowl of Comforting Beef Meatballs in Savory Vegetable Broth! This wholesome dish features tender beef meatballs simmered in a flavorful broth, brimming with nutritious vegetables. Perfect for family dinners or chilly evenings, it’s sure to become a favorite at your table!

Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:

• 1.5 pounds ground beef
• 2 tablespoons milk
• ½ cup bread crumbs
• 1 large egg
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Stew:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• ½ medium white onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour (or 2 tablespoons cornstarch for slow cooker or Instant Pot)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 5 cups beef broth
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
• 1 dried bay leaf
• 12 ounces potatoes, peeled and chopped into sizable pieces
• 1 cup fresh green beans
• 1 cup frozen peas
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions/Directions:

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, milk, bread crumbs, egg, minced garlic, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a spacious pot over medium heat.
2. Add the meatballs in batches, cooking and turning occasionally until browned on all sides (about 6-8 minutes).
3. Remove the meatballs from the pot and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

1. Once the oil is hot, add another tablespoon of olive oil to the pot.
2. Sauté the diced onion, celery, and carrots for 5-6 minutes until they begin to soften.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and garlic, cooking for an additional 3 minutes.

Step 4: Build the Stew Base

1. Stir in the flour or cornstarch to coat the vegetables, then add the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes.
2. Pour in a splash of chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to loosen any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pot.
3. Allow it to simmer for approximately 5 minutes.

Step 5: Add Broth and Herbs

1. Pour in the beef broth and add the fresh rosemary, thyme, and bay leaf.
2. Bring the stew to a simmer, then add the potatoes and green beans.
3. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Step 6: Return the Meatballs to the Stew

1. Once the vegetables are tender, return the browned meatballs to the pot.
2. Stir in the frozen peas and simmer for an additional 10 minutes, or until everything is heated through.
3. Remove the bay leaf and rosemary sprigs before serving.

Step 7: Season and Serve

1. Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
2. Ladle the stew into bowls and serve warm, garnished with extra parsley if desired.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6-8

FAQ:
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for a lighter option!

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion:
Dive into a bowl of Comforting Beef Meatballs in Savory Vegetable Broth for a satisfying meal that warms the soul. This dish is not just delicious but also packed with hearty vegetables, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion!

Hashtags:
#MeatballStew #ComfortFood #HeartyMeals #HomemadeCooking #FamilyDinner