Turkey Meatball Orzo Soup Recipe
Cooking at home allows you to bring comfort and warmth to your table, and this Turkey Meatball Orzo Soup does exactly that. With hearty turkey meatballs, creamy broth, and flavorful herbs, this soup is perfect for a cozy family meal or a weekend treat. Follow this detailed guide to recreate this satisfying dish, with tips and answers to your questions at the end to ensure your success.
Ingredients
Here’s a comprehensive list of everything you’ll need to make this delicious soup.
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound of ground turkey
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- ½ cup of breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup of finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon of fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Soup Base:
- 1.5 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 28-ounce can of ground tomatoes
- 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 cup of orzo pasta
- 1 teaspoon of fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnishes:
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
- Parmesan cheese, grated
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Turkey Meatballs
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Mix the Meatball Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix just until the ingredients are well incorporated, being careful not to overwork the meat mixture to avoid tough meatballs. -
Form the Meatballs:
Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a plate or tray and set aside.
Browning the Meatballs
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Heat the Oil:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or deep saucepan over medium-high heat. -
Cook the Meatballs:
Brown the meatballs in batches, ensuring they are golden on all sides. This should take 5–7 minutes per batch. Remove the meatballs from the pan and set them aside on a plate.
Preparing the Soup Base
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Sauté Aromatics:
Add the remaining ½ tablespoon of olive oil to the same pan. Sauté the chopped onion until it softens, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. -
Add Liquids and Seasonings:
Stir in the ground tomatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, fresh basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally.
Cooking the Pasta and Meatballs
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Cook the Orzo:
Reduce the heat to medium-low, add the orzo pasta, and cover the pot. Let the pasta cook until it’s al dente, about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. -
Simmer the Meatballs:
Return the browned meatballs to the pot. Simmer for 5–10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together and ensuring the meatballs are cooked through.
Finishing Touches
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Add the Cream:
Stir the heavy cream into the soup and let it heat through for a couple of minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. -
Garnish and Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil or parsley. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors!
Tips for the Perfect Turkey Meatball Orzo Soup
- Prevent Overcooking: When browning the meatballs, don’t worry if they aren’t fully cooked through; they’ll finish cooking in the soup.
- Keep Meatballs Intact: Use a gentle hand when forming the meatballs to prevent them from breaking apart during cooking.
- Boost Flavor: For a deeper flavor, use fire-roasted tomatoes or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup base.
- Customize the Creaminess: Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version or coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
- Reheating Tips: The orzo may absorb more liquid as the soup sits. Add a splash of broth or water when reheating to restore the desired consistency.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground chicken, pork, or even beef can be used as a substitute for turkey. Adjust the cooking time slightly based on the fat content.
What if I don’t have orzo pasta?
You can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni. Cook time may vary slightly.
Can this soup be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the soup without the cream and orzo. Add them fresh when reheating to maintain the best texture.
What side dishes go well with this soup?
Serve it with crusty bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
How long does this soup last in the refrigerator?
Store it in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
This Turkey Meatball Orzo Soup is hearty, flavorful, and sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking!