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Hearty Spiced Italian Meatball Stew

Hearty Spiced Italian Meatball Stew for Cozy Nights

Hearty Spiced Italian Meatball Stew is a warm, comforting dish packed with flavor and nutritious veggies, perfect for chilly evenings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course One-Pot Meals
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 servings
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • large mixing bowl
  • large pot or Dutch oven

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs

  • 1 pound Ground beef a hearty base that adds rich flavor and protein
  • ½ cup Bread crumbs help bind the meatballs together
  • ¼ cup Grated Parmesan cheese adds umami flavor
  • 1 large Egg acts as a binder
  • 2 cloves Minced garlic infuses with aromatic depth
  • 1 tablespoon Dried Italian seasoning brings a blend of herbs
  • 1 teaspoon Salt enhances flavors
  • ½ teaspoon Ground black pepper adds warmth and spice

For the Stew

  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil for browning meatballs
  • 1 medium Onion provides sweet and savory base
  • 2 medium Carrots adds natural sweetness
  • 2 stocks Celery contributes crunch and freshness
  • 3 cups Beef broth flavorful liquid base
  • 1 can Diced tomatoes balances richness
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato paste intensifies tomato flavor
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika adds earthiness and color
  • ¼ teaspoon Red pepper flakes optional for heat
  • 1 cup Pasta small shapes like ditalini
  • 2 cups Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients
  • ¼ cup Fresh parsley finishing touch for freshness
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Meatballs

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly and shape into 1-inch meatballs.

Brown the Meatballs

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches, browning all sides for 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

  • In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until tender.

Build the Broth

  • Pour in beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and paprika. Optionally, add red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil and then simmer for a few minutes.

Combine with Meatballs

  • Return meatballs to the pot and simmer for 30 minutes.

Add the Pasta

  • After 30 minutes, stir in pasta and simmer for another 10-12 minutes.

Incorporate Spinach

  • Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

Final Seasoning

  • Remove from heat, stir in parsley, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Serve and Enjoy

  • Ladle into bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider using homemade beef broth. Monitor pasta closely to avoid overcooking.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg
Keyword comfort food, Cozy Nights, hearty stew, Italian Meatballs, meatball stew, Nutritious Meal
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