Creamy Cheese Soup with Meatballs

This hearty and comforting creamy cheese soup is perfect for those who crave a flavorful meal that's both satisfying and warming. It's a blend of tender meatballs, smooth melted cheese, and wholesome vegetables, simmered to perfection. With its creamy texture and combination of flavors, this soup is a great choice for family dinners or gatherings with friends. The meatballs, made with a blend of meat, bread, and spices, add a delightful heartiness to each spoonful. Vegetables like potatoes and carrots bring a natural sweetness and a boost of nutrients. The addition of fresh herbs enhances the aroma and adds a fresh touch to the dish. This soup is not only rich in flavor but also versatile, allowing for various substitutions to cater to different dietary preferences. Make it a part of your meal rotation, and you're sure to have a new favorite that's both indulgent and nourishing. Enjoy it on a chilly evening or whenever you're in the mood for something warm and tasty.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 500 g ground meat
• 5 medium potatoes
• 3 carrots
• 1 egg
• 2 onions
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 2 slices of white bread
• 2 pinches of fine pasta
• 175 g melted cheese
• 1 cup of milk
• Fresh herbs

Spices

• Salt
• Ground pepper
• Optional: Vegeta seasoning to taste

Preparation Time

• Total: Approximately 80 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Bread: In a bowl, cover the bread slices (crust removed) with milk until all the bread is soaked. This will make the meatballs tender and moist.
2. Prepare the Meat Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat with grated onions and minced garlic. Squeeze out excess milk from the soaked bread and add to the meat. Stir in one egg, salt, pepper, and any additional seasoning like Vegeta to taste.
3. Form the Meatballs: Use a moistened spoon to shape small meatballs, ensuring they bind well together.
4. Boil the Meatballs: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Carefully drop the formed meatballs into the boiling water and allow them to cook for 10-15 minutes, depending on their size.
5. Prepare the Vegetables: Dice the potatoes into cubes and rinse them to remove excess starch. Grate the carrots using a coarse grater.
6. Combine Ingredients: Add the potato cubes and grated carrots to the pot with the meatballs. Include bay leaves, a bit of salt, and optionally some Vegeta.
7. Cook the Vegetables: Let the mixture simmer for about 20 minutes or until the vegetables become tender.
8. Add the Cheese: Once the vegetables are cooked, stir in the melted cheese until fully incorporated. This will help thicken and enrich the soup.
9. Finish and Serve: Once the soup reaches a gentle boil, remove from heat, garnish with fresh herbs, and let it sit briefly to enhance flavors. Serve hot.

Tips

• Substitutions: Use turkey or chicken for leaner meatballs. Swap out white bread for gluten-free options if needed.
• Make Ahead: Prepare meatballs in advance and freeze for quick use in the future.

Nutritional Information (approx per serving)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 25g

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace meatballs with chickpea balls and use vegetable stock instead of water.
• Spicy Twist: Add a dash of chili flakes or paprika for a spicy kick.

Serving Suggestions

• Complement with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
• Pair with a fresh green salad to balance the creaminess of the soup.

Best Places

1. Le Marais Crepe Cafe - Known for its authentic cheese dishes with a French twist. Location: 109 N Park Square, Marietta, Georgia, USA.
2. Cheese and Wine Ltd - A cozy spot offering exquisite cheese pairings. Location: 123 East Main St, Bath, UK.
3. The Cheese Bar - Specializes in cheese-focused meals and snacks. Location: Camden Stables Market, London, UK.
4. Melt Room - Known for inventive grilled cheese sandwiches and melts. Location: 26 Noel St, London, UK.
5. Stinky Bklyn - Offers a range of international cheeses and soups. Location: 215 Smith St, Brooklyn, New York, USA.
6. Munster Cheesery - Famous for artisan cheeses and gourmet soups. Location: 33 Old Taunton Rd, Worcester, South Africa.
7. Cheeseboard Collective - A bakery and cheese joint with a rotating menu. Location: 1504 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley, California, USA.
8. Caseus Fromagerie & Bistro - Offers cheese-heavy dishes in a cozy environment. Location: 93 Whitney Ave, New Haven, Connecticut, USA.
9. Cowgirl Creamery - Known for premium cheeses in upscale settings. Location: 4191 Point Reyes Petaluma Rd, Point Reyes Station, California, USA.
10. La Fromagerie - Specialist in cheese and wine pairings with light bites. Location: 30 Highbury Park, London, UK.

Enjoy exploring this delightful cheesy indulgence!