This Slow Cooker Mediterranean Meatball Minestrone Stew is a warm hug in a bowl! Packed with colorful veggies, hearty meatballs, and tasty herbs, it’s perfect for cozy nights.
Honestly, it’s so easy! Just toss everything in and let the slow cooker do its magic. You can snack on bread while it bubbles away, and trust me, it smells amazing!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: A mix of beef and pork gives a flavorful kick, but you can use turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you’re looking for vegetarian, try meatless meatballs or lentils instead!
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs. If you’re gluten-free, almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs work nicely. I often use Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor!
Parmesan Cheese: This adds a nice depth to the meatballs. For dairy-free, nutritional yeast is a great substitute. If you prefer a different taste, Pecorino Romano can be used as well!
Beans & Chickpeas: These are protein-packed additions. Feel free to swap with black beans or kidney beans if you want a change in taste.
Zucchini & Squash: These veggies add texture. If they’re not available, try bell peppers or carrots instead. I love the color bell peppers bring to the dish!
How Can I Ensure My Meatballs Stay Juicy?
Keeping meatballs juicy is all about balance! Here are some simple steps to ensure they come out delicious:
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture; just combine ingredients until they’re mixed.
- Use moist ingredients like egg and breadcrumbs to retain moisture.
- Brown them lightly before adding to the slow cooker. This adds flavor and helps seal in juices!
What’s the Best Way to Layer Flavors in My Stew?
Layering flavors can really elevate your stew. Here’s how:
- Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery first to bring out their sweetness. This is called mirepoix and forms a great base.
- Add herbs and spices when cooking to allow their flavors to bloom. Dried herbs work well in slow cooking.
- Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving! A pinch more salt or a squeeze of lemon can brighten everything up.
Enjoy making this cozy and hearty stew! It’s a wonderful dish to share with family and friends on a chilly day.
How to Make Slow Cooker Mediterranean Meatball Minestrone Stew
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Stew:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 zucchini, chopped
- 1 medium yellow squash, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 handfuls fresh spinach or kale, roughly chopped
- Optional: 1/2 cup small pasta or orzo (to add near the end of cooking)
For Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Crusty bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This stew requires about 20-30 minutes of prep time followed by 6-8 hours of slow cooking on low or 3-4 hours on high. It’s perfect for days when you want a warm, hearty meal without spending all day in the kitchen. Just set it up in the morning and enjoy the fabulous smell and taste later!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Meatballs:
In a medium bowl, combine the ground beef (or pork), breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix gently, being careful not to overwork the meat. You want soft and tender meatballs!
2. Shape the Meatballs:
Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Feel free to make them a bit smaller or larger, depending on your preference!
3. Brown the Meatballs:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and brown them on all sides—this should take about 4-5 minutes. They don’t have to be fully cooked; you’ll finish them in the slow cooker!
4. Prepare the Stew Base:
In your slow cooker, add the diced onion, carrots, celery, zucchini, yellow squash, white beans, chickpeas, diced tomatoes (and their juice), broth, thyme, rosemary, and smoked paprika. Stir everything together to create a flavorful base.
5. Add the Meatballs:
Gently place the browned meatballs on top of the vegetable mixture. Make sure they are mostly submerged to cook properly.
6. Slow Cook the Stew:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking time helps all the flavors meld together, making every bite delicious!
7. Add the Finishing Touches:
About 30 minutes before serving, add in the pasta if you’re using it, so it has time to cook. Stir in the spinach or kale about 10 minutes before serving to let it wilt.
8. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste the stew and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Every stove is different, so a little tweaking might be necessary.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the hearty stew into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley and more grated Parmesan cheese if you like. It’s ready to be enjoyed! Serve hot with crusty bread on the side for dipping.
Enjoy this comforting Mediterranean-inspired minestrone stew filled with flavorful meatballs and hearty vegetables! It’s perfect for chilly days and is sure to bring smiles to the table!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for the Meatballs?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen ground beef completely before mixing the meatball ingredients. The best way to thaw it is to leave it in the fridge overnight or use the defrost function on your microwave if you’re short on time.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make this stew vegetarian, substitute the meat with meatless meatballs, lentils, or extra beans for protein. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and skip the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a dairy-free option.
Can I Store Leftovers and How Long Do They Last?
Yes! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the stew for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a bit of broth or water if it thickens too much in the fridge or freezer.
What Should I Serve with This Stew?
This stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping. You can also serve it with a simple green salad for a complete meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a sprinkle of feta cheese on top for an extra Mediterranean flair!
