Microwave Meatball Soup
A hearty and comforting microwave meatball soup featuring a rich tomato base, savory meatballs, and aromatic spices. Perfect for busy weeknights or a quick lunch, its bold flavors and easy preparation make it a favorite for family dinners and those craving a warming, homemade meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine tomatoes, water, diced onion, minced garlic, chopped green pepper, chili powder, salt, marjoram, and pepper in a 2-quart microwaveproof bowl.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap.
- Cook on High for 5 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, cornmeal, and egg.
- Blend the mixture well and shape into 1/2-inch meatballs.
- Drop the meatballs into the soup.
- Cook on High for 11 to 13 minutes, stirring after 5 minutes, until meatballs are no longer red.
- Let stand for five minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the soup base. If you don't have ground pork, turkey or chicken can be good substitutes. You can also use pre-made meatballs instead of making your own for quicker preparation. Ensure to adjust cooking time accordingly if using larger or smaller meatballs.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatball soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or grated cheese for extra flavor. It pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside Cheesy Beef Corn Bread for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in a covered bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through. You can also reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Meatball Soup contains roughly 852 calories, with 55g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), protein (109% of the Daily Value), and calcium (96% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2246mg per serving (98% of the Daily Value).
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 frozen meatballs instead of making my own?
Yes, you can use frozen meatballs for convenience. Just add them to the soup during the last 10 minutes of cooking, ensuring they are heated through. This method can save time while still delivering a delicious meal.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground meat with plant-based meat alternatives or beans like black beans or lentils. Replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and you’ll have a hearty and satisfying soup without meat.
What can I do if the soup is too thick?
If the soup becomes too thick for your liking, simply stir in additional water or broth until you reach your desired consistency. This is a great way to adjust the soup to your preferences while keeping it flavorful.
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).