Description
This Meatball Sub Soup takes all the delicious flavors of a classic meatball sub and transforms them into a warm, hearty, and comforting dish. Juicy meatballs, a rich tomato-based broth, melted cheese, and a crusty bread bowl make this the ultimate cozy meal. Perfect for cold nights, busy weeknights, or any time you’re craving something indulgent yet easy to prepare!
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 pound cooked meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Bread Bowls:
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- 6 small round bread loaves
Instructions
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Prepare the Bread Bowls:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice off the top of each bread loaf and hollow out the center, leaving about ½-inch thickness on the sides and bottom.
- Place the hollowed bread bowls on a baking sheet and set aside.
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Cook the Soup:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, stirring well.
- Add the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce the heat and add the cooked meatballs. Let simmer for 10 minutes.
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Assemble and Serve:
- Ladle the hot soup into each prepared bread bowl.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Bake in the oven for 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and serve immediately.
Notes
- Bread Choice: Use a sturdy bread like sourdough or Italian round loaves to prevent sogginess.
- Meatball Options: Homemade, frozen, or store-bought meatballs all work well in this recipe.
- Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Bread bowls should be stored separately.
- Freezing: The soup (without cheese and bread) can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage meatballs for extra heat.
- Vegetarian Alternative: Swap meatballs for plant-based meatballs and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stove Top
- Cuisine: American