There’s nothing quite like the aromatic embrace of a simmering meatball stew wafting through your kitchen. Imagine tender meatballs nestled in a rich, savory broth, filled with vibrant vegetables just waiting to be scooped up and savored. Each spoonful promises warmth, comfort, and a delightful burst of flavor that wraps around you like a cozy blanket on a cold day.

I remember the first time I made this dish my housemates wandered into the kitchen, lured by the mouthwatering scent, and within minutes, we were all gathered around the table, spoons in hand. Whether it’s a chilly evening or just a casual get-together with friends, this meatball stew has that magical ability to bring everyone together for an unforgettable meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This hearty meatball stew is incredibly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights
- Packed with layers of flavor, each bite feels like a warm hug
- The vibrant colors will brighten any dinner spread while being versatile enough for leftovers or meal prep
Sharing this recipe always brings back fond memories of laughter and satisfaction as my friends devour every last drop.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for juicy meatballs without too much grease.
- Breadcrumbs: Use plain breadcrumbs to help bind the meatballs without overpowering their flavor.
- Eggs: One egg helps keep the meatballs moist and fluffy while they cook.
- Onions: Chop finely they add sweetness and depth to both the meatballs and the broth.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the aroma and flavor profile tremendously.
- Carrots: These sweet little guys add color and nutrition to your stew what’s not to love?
- Celery: Chopped celery gives a lovely crunch and balances the flavors perfectly.
- Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes are convenient they add richness and acidity to your stew.
- Beef Broth: Use low-sodium beef broth as your base it deepens the flavor without overwhelming it.
- Herbs (Thyme & Parsley): Fresh herbs brighten up the dish feel free to substitute dried if needed.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Create Your Meatball Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, eggs, finely chopped onions, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined don’t overwork it.
Form Meatballs with Love: Roll your mixture into small balls about one inch in diameter try not to think about how you’re shaping tiny spheres of joy just focus on getting them nice and round.
Sear Those Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches until browned on all sides about 5-7 minutes. You want them golden but not fully cooked through yet.
Add Vegetables and Stock: Toss in chopped carrots and celery into the pot with those beautiful browned meatballs. Pour in diced tomatoes and beef broth bring everything to a gentle simmer let those flavors mingle
Season It Up: Sprinkle in thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper as you stir gently. Let your stew simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes until vegetables are tender the aroma should be irresistibly inviting.
Final Touches Before Serving: Taste your stew before serving adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice for that extra satisfying experience
Enjoying this delightful meatball stew will make you feel as though you’ve created something truly special even if it was super simple
You Must Know
- Meatball stew is a delightful mix of flavors and textures
- The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking, “What’s cooking?” This dish is cozy comfort food at its finest, perfect for chilly nights or any day that needs a little warmth
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the meatballs to lock in flavor, then sauté vegetables while simmering the broth for optimal taste.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the beef for turkey or add your favorite veggies for extra nutrition and flavor diversity.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days reheat gently on the stove for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To make your meatball stew truly stand out, don’t skip browning those meatballs first
- It adds incredible depth of flavor Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for a vibrant finish
- Always taste as you go to perfect seasoning
Creating this meatball stew reminds me of family gatherings where we’d all pitch in to make it. The laughter and love added so much flavor to every bite
FAQ
What can I serve with meatball stew?
Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a filling meal that everyone will enjoy.
Can I freeze meatball stew?
Yes, it freezes well Just cool completely before packaging in airtight containers.
How long does meatball stew last in the fridge?
It lasts up to three days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Hearty Meatball Stew
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Warm up your evenings with this comforting meatball stew, featuring tender meatballs simmered in a rich broth filled with vibrant vegetables. Perfect for chilly nights or casual gatherings, this dish wraps you in a cozy embrace of flavor and nostalgia. Gather your loved ones around the table and share a bowl of happiness!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper until just combined. Form into small meatballs (about one inch).
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches for 5–7 minutes; set aside.
- Add carrots and celery to the pot; sauté briefly. Pour in diced tomatoes and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
- Return meatballs to the pot; season with thyme and parsley. Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Adjust seasoning as needed 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: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 325
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg