Hearty Meatball Stew

The aroma of a hearty meatball stew wafts through the air, teasing your senses and promising a cozy dining experience. Imagine tender meatballs simmering in a savory broth with vegetables that practically dance in your bowl, each bite bursting with flavor.

This dish isn’t just food it’s a warm hug on a chilly day, perfect for gatherings or solo comfort nights. As I recall my grandmother’s kitchen, the clattering of pots and laughter filled the room, transforming an ordinary meal into cherished memories.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This meatball stew is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
  • The rich flavors meld beautifully while cooking, creating a comforting dish
  • Its vibrant colors and textures make it visually appealing for any table setting
  • Enjoy it as a standalone meal or pair it with crusty bread for a delightful experience

The first time I made this meatball stew, my friends devoured it within minutes and insisted on the recipe definitely a win

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for juicy meatballs without excessive grease.
  • Breadcrumbs: Use plain or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs to help bind the meatballs while adding flavor.
  • Fresh Parsley: Fresh parsley adds brightness and color to the dish chop finely for even distribution.
  • Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness sauté until translucent for maximum flavor.
  • Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the broth with aromatic goodness don’t skip this essential ingredient.
  • Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth for better control over saltiness enhances the stew’s overall taste.
  • Canned Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes add depth and acidity opt for fire-roasted varieties for extra flavor.
  • Vegetables (Carrots & Celery): These veggies add texture and nutrition chop them into uniform pieces for even cooking.
  • Italian Seasoning: A mix of herbs gives your stew that classic Italian flavor that everyone loves.
  • Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the other flavors in the stew.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Create the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and egg. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough meatballs.

Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and carrots, sauté until softened and fragrant around five minutes should do it.

Add Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with juices), stirring well to combine everything into a flavorful base.

Form Meatballs and Simmer: Shape your beef mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs. Gently drop them into the simmering broth don’t worry if they break apart slightly they’ll still taste amazing

Add Remaining Vegetables: Toss chopped celery into the pot along with any additional seasonings you fancy. Let everything simmer together on low heat for 20-30 minutes while those heavenly scents fill your kitchen.

Serve It Up : Ladle generous portions of meatball stew into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy immediately with crusty bread or over pasta

Now that you know how to create this delightful meatball stew from scratch, gather those ingredients and let’s get cooking Bon appétit

You Must Know

  • Meatball stew is a cozy dish that brings warmth and joy to your table
  • The rich aroma of simmering meatballs and spices fills the air, making it irresistible
  • This hearty stew not only satisfies hunger but also creates memories with every spoonful

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the meatballs in a skillet for flavor, then add veggies and broth to create a deliciously rich stew.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add beans for extra protein. A dash of hot sauce can spice things up

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For a richer flavor, let the stew simmer longer than you think patience pays off
  • Don’t skip the browning step it adds depth to your dish
  • Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving for optimal flavor balance

Meatball stew has become my go-to comfort food, especially during chilly nights when friends gather around and share laughter over warm bowls.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use frozen meatballs for this recipe?

Absolutely Just add them directly to the simmering stew for easy preparation.

What can I serve with meatball stew?

Crusty bread or fluffy rice pairs perfectly with this hearty dish, soaking up all the flavors.

How do I make meatball stew healthier?

Substituting lean meats and adding more vegetables can boost nutrition without sacrificing flavor.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Hearty Meatball Stew


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Ann Foster
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

Description

Warm up your evenings with this hearty meatball stew, a comforting dish that combines tender meatballs, vibrant vegetables, and a rich broth. Perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings, this stew invites everyone to the table with its enticing aroma and satisfying flavors. Serve it alongside crusty bread or over pasta for a complete meal that warms the heart.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 2 stalks celery, chopped
  • 2 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, salt, pepper, and one egg (optional). Mix gently until just combined.
  2. In a large pot over medium heat, sauté diced onions and carrots in olive oil until softened (about 5 minutes).
  3. Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes; stir well.
  4. Shape the beef mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs and gently drop them into the simmering broth.
  5. Add chopped celery and any additional seasonings. Let everything simmer on low heat for 20-30 minutes.
  6. Serve hot in bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Related Articles

Spring Vegetable Quiche

Spring has sprung, and with it comes the vibrant colors of fresh vegetables just waiting to be transformed into a delicious Spring Vegetable Quiche. Imagine

Learn More

Easter Bunny Pancakes

Easter Bunny Pancakes are not just any ordinary breakfast they are whimsical, fluffy delights that perfectly capture the joyful spirit of Easter. Imagine waking up

Learn More

Ann Foster

Chef & Blogger

Hi, I’m Ann Foster! Born and raised in California’s Central Valley, I found my passion for cooking in my grandmother’s kitchen. After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America, I traveled across the country exploring new flavors and cooking techniques. This website is my passion project—where I share delicious recipes meant to bring people together, one meal at a time. Welcome to my culinary journey!

Chef Ann