Escarole And White Bean Soup
Hearty and flavorful escarole and white bean soup with savory meatballs, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground beef, ground pork, beaten egg, Parmesan cheese, seasoned breadcrumbs, and garlic powder in a medium bowl.
- Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs and set aside.
- Heat chicken broth in a large saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir in chopped escarole, drained cannellini beans, and minced garlic.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the meatballs to the broth and cook until they are firm to the touch, about 30 minutes.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can substitute the ground beef and pork with lean turkey or chicken. If you want to boost the flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like thyme or oregano. Make sure to sauté the garlic briefly before adding the broth for a richer taste. Consider using low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh black pepper. This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple side salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a Mediterranean recipe or a light dessert to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over medium heat until heated through. You can also microwave it in a bowl, covered, for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. If the soup thickens, add a splash of broth or water.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Escarole And White Bean Soup contains roughly 328 calories, with 19g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (56% of the Daily Value), iron (44% of the Daily Value), and protein (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. At about 328 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different beans in this soup?
Yes, you can substitute cannellini beans with other varieties like navy beans or chickpeas. Each type will add a unique flavor and texture to the soup, so feel free to experiment based on your preference.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can omit the meatballs entirely and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add more beans or lentils for protein and bulk, along with your favorite vegetables for a hearty vegetarian version.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when cooking the garlic. You can also finish the soup with a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).