Meatballs and Noodle Soup

### Instructions

#### Step 1: Make the Meatballs
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
2. Using your hands, form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the meatballs in the skillet and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). They don’t need to be fully cooked through yet, as they will finish cooking in the broth. Once browned, set them aside.

#### Step 2: Prepare the Soup
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 1 minute, until fragrant.
2. Add the sliced carrots and celery to the pot and stir for a few minutes to slightly soften.
3. Pour in the chicken or beef broth and add the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat.
4. Once simmering, gently add the meatballs into the broth, along with any juices from the skillet. Let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the meatballs to cook through and the flavors to meld.

#### Step 3: Cook the Noodles
1. Add the egg noodles (or pasta of your choice) to the pot. Continue simmering until the noodles are tender and the meatballs are fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes.
2. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf.

#### Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls, making sure to get plenty of meatballs, noodles, and vegetables in each serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and added flavor. Serve with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.

### Tips for Success

– **Customize the Meatballs:** You can add different herbs and spices to the meatball mixture to suit your taste. Try adding a little Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor.
– **Make Ahead:** This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. The flavors will deepen, making it even more delicious the next day! Just add the noodles when reheating to keep them from getting too soft.
– **Freeze for Later:** This soup freezes well! To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove, adding fresh noodles if desired.
– **Add Greens:** For a burst of color and extra nutrients, add a handful of spinach or kale to the soup just before serving. They’ll wilt beautifully in the hot broth.

### Why This Soup is a Family Favorite

**Meatballs and Noodle Soup** is one of those timeless comfort foods that brings people together. The tender meatballs, flavorful broth, and hearty noodles make for a filling and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a cozy evening at home. It’s a flexible recipe that’s easy to adapt and a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this soup is sure to be a hit. Its simple ingredients and heartwarming taste make it the perfect dish to share with loved ones. So, gather your ingredients, simmer up a pot, and enjoy the warmth and comfort of homemade Meatballs and Noodle Soup!