The aroma of a bubbling pot of meatball stew wafts through the kitchen, wrapping you in its cozy embrace. Each spoonful promises warmth, comfort, and an explosion of flavor that will make your taste buds dance.

This hearty dish is perfect for chilly evenings when you want to gather around the table with loved ones, sharing laughter and stories over a steaming bowl of deliciousness. Get ready for an unforgettable flavor adventure that will have everyone asking for seconds
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This meatball stew is a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The rich flavors combine beautifully, creating a delightful experience in every bite
- Its vibrant colors and aromas are sure to impress at any gathering
- Enjoy this dish on lazy Sundays or quick weeknight dinners without sacrificing taste
I still remember the first time I made this meatball stew for my family their faces lit up with joy as they took that first bite.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Use 1 pound of lean ground beef for juicy meatballs without excess grease.
- Breadcrumbs: About 1/2 cup will help bind the meatballs together while adding texture.
- Eggs: One large egg acts as a binder, keeping the meatballs moist and tender.
- Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced garlic enhances flavor use about 3 cloves for a robust aroma.
- Onion: A medium onion, finely chopped, adds sweetness and depth to both meatballs and stew.
- Carrots: Sliced carrots bring natural sweetness and color about 2 medium-sized ones will do.
- Celery Stalks: Two chopped celery stalks provide crunch and balance to the stew’s texture.
- Canned Tomatoes: One can (14 ounces) of diced tomatoes gives the stew its rich base.
- Beef Broth: Four cups of low-sodium beef broth ensures a flavorful and hearty stew.
- Italian Herbs: A mix of oregano, basil, and thyme elevates the flavors about 1 tablespoon works wonders.
- Salt and Pepper: Season generously to taste they are essential for bringing all the flavors together.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Create the Meatballs : Start by mixing ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs in a large bowl until well combined. Form small balls about one inch in diameter.
Sear the Meatballs : Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add your meatballs in batches, cooking until browned on all sides about 5-7 minutes. Set aside once done.
Sauté Vegetables : In the same pot, add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until soft about 5 minutes stirring occasionally until fragrant.
Add Tomatoes and Broth : Pour in the canned tomatoes along with their juice and four cups of beef broth. Stir well to combine all those delicious bits stuck to the bottom of your pot
Simmer Away : Bring your stew to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low. Return meatballs to the pot and let simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes this allows flavors to mingle beautifully.
Taste Test & Serve : After simmering, taste your masterpiece Adjust seasoning if needed before serving hot with crusty bread or over rice for an extra treat.
Now you’re all set to enjoy this delightful meatball stew that warms both heart and soul You’ll find each step easy to follow while savoring those enticing aromas filling your kitchen. Happy cooking
You Must Know
- This delightful meatball stew is hearty and comforting, perfect for cozy evenings
- The rich aromas and tender meatballs create a dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make
- It’s a family favorite that brings everyone together around the dinner table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the meatballs in a skillet this locks in flavor. While they cook, sauté onions and garlic in the stew pot for a fragrant base. Finally, add the broth and veggies to simmer until everything melds beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter version. You can also toss in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and nutrition. Experiment with spices to make it uniquely yours
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover meatball stew in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until bubbling, ensuring that those flavors come back to life
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly juicy meatballs, avoid overmixing the meat it makes them tough
- Use fresh herbs for vibrant flavor enhancement, and let the stew rest before serving this allows flavors to marry beautifully for that ultimate comfort food experience
Cooking this meatball stew reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen full of laughter, delicious smells, and a bit of chaos as everyone jostled for a seat at the table.
FAQ
Can I make meatball stew ahead of time?
Yes, preparing it a day before enhances its flavor as it sits overnight.
What type of bread pairs best with this stew?
Crusty bread or warm rolls complement meatball stew perfectly for dipping.
How can I thicken my meatball stew?
Mix cornstarch with cold water and stir into the stew while simmering until thickened.

Hearty Meatball Stew
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- Author: Emma
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Warm your soul with this delightful meatball stew, perfect for cozy evenings with family and friends. Each spoonful bursts with rich flavors from tender meatballs simmered in a savory broth, accompanied by vibrant vegetables that add both nutrition and color. This comforting dish is easy to prepare and guarantees second helpings as everyone gathers around the table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 14 oz canned diced tomatoes
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tbsp Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. Form into meatballs about 1 inch in diameter.
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sear meatballs in batches until browned on all sides (5–7 minutes). Set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onions, carrots, and celery until soft (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in diced tomatoes and beef broth; mix well.
- Return meatballs to the pot and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and let simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasonings before serving hot with crusty bread or over rice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 80mg