Welcome, food enthusiasts! If you’re looking for a hearty, nutritious, and hassle-free meal, this Slow Cooker Meatball, Sweet Potato, and Kale Soup is your answer. With simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can enjoy a comforting bowl of goodness that’s packed with flavors. This soup recipe is perfect for busy days, and it’s also a fantastic way to add more veggies and protein to your diet. Let’s dive into making this delicious, wholesome soup that everyone will love!
Introduction
The Slow Cooker Meatball, Sweet Potato, and Kale Soup is inspired by a blend of comforting homemade flavors and nutritious ingredients. It combines the rich flavors of tender meatballs, sweet potatoes, and nutrient-packed kale, making it a delightful choice for anyone who loves wholesome, slow-cooked meals. This recipe is perfect for chilly evenings, bringing together savory and sweet tastes in one satisfying bowl. Whether you’re a fan of traditional soups or looking for a creative way to enjoy more vegetables, this dish is a must-try!
By the end of the day, you’ll have a comforting pot of soup that tastes like you’ve spent hours preparing it, while in reality, the slow cooker did all the work. Let’s explore how you can create this slow cooker magic at home!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Meatball, Sweet Potato, and Kale Soup
- 1 (20 oz) bag frozen turkey meatballs – Look for party-size or kid-size for the perfect bite.
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil – Adds a nice touch of flavor and helps sauté the mirepoix.
- 1 cup mirepoix – A pre-chopped blend of onion, celery, and carrot, or 1 small onion and 1 stalk celery, chopped.
- 1 clove garlic, minced – Adds depth to the broth.
- 2 small sweet potatoes, cut into 1″ cubes – Their sweetness complements the meatballs beautifully.
- 1 (8 oz) carton mushrooms, sliced (optional) – Optional, but adds a nice earthy flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon sage – A classic herb that enhances the aroma.
- 1 teaspoon oregano – Provides a savory touch.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper – Just a hint of spice to balance the flavors.
- 4 cups chicken broth – Choose fat-free, low-sodium for a lighter soup.
- 1 cup kale, rinsed and chopped – Adds texture and color.
- 2 cups 2% milk – Creates a creamy finish.
Substitution Suggestions:
- Swap turkey meatballs for beef or chicken meatballs.
- Use almond milk instead of 2% milk for a dairy-free option.
- Substitute sweet potatoes with butternut squash for a slightly different flavor.
How to Make Slow Cooker Meatball, Sweet Potato, and Kale Soup – Step by Step
Step1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Start by prepping your vegetables: chop the sweet potatoes into 1” cubes and rinse the kale thoroughly.
- For a smoother soup, consider dicing the onions and celery finely.
Step2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
- In a large slow cooker, add the frozen meatballs, olive oil, mirepoix, garlic, sweet potatoes, mushrooms, and seasonings (salt, pepper, sage, oregano, cayenne pepper).
- Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the ingredients are well-covered.
Step3: Cook Low and Slow
- Set your slow cooker on LOW and cook for 6-7 hours.
- Cooking Tip: For a stronger flavor, sauté the garlic and mirepoix in the olive oil before adding them to the slow cooker.
Step4: Add the Milk and Kale
- About 10 minutes before serving, take 1/2 cup of hot soup from the slow cooker and mix it with the 2 cups of milk.
- Add the milk mixture and the chopped kale back into the slow cooker. Stir gently and let it cook for another 5-10 minutes, or until the kale is wilted.
Step5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal. Pair with some crusty bread for the perfect finish.
Helpful Tips for Slow Cooker Meatball, Sweet Potato, and Kale Soup
- Using Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh garlic and herbs to enhance the flavor.
- Prevent Overcooking: Add the kale just before serving to keep it vibrant and crunchy.
- Freezing Tips: This soup freezes beautifully. Make a double batch and freeze the leftovers for busy weeknights.
Cooking Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Meatball Soup
- Slow Cooker Size: A 6-quart slow cooker works best for this recipe.
- Browning the Meatballs: For an extra boost of flavor, brown the meatballs in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker.
- Spice it Up: Like it spicier? Add a few red pepper flakes or an extra dash of cayenne.
Serving Suggestions for Slow Cooker Meatball, Sweet Potato, and Kale Soup
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of buttered sourdough bread.
- Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette pairs perfectly.
- Wine Pairing: A glass of Chardonnay complements the creamy broth.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Slow Cooker Meatball, Sweet Potato, and Kale Soup contains approximately:
- Calories: 290
- Fats: 10g
- Carbs: 32g
- Proteins: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Vitamins: A, C, and K
Storage and Leftovers for Slow Cooker Meatball Soup
- Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Slow Cooker Meatball Soup
- Can I use fresh meatballs instead of frozen?
- Absolutely! Just make sure to brown them first for a richer flavor.
- What can I use instead of sweet potatoes?
- Try using butternut squash or Yukon Gold potatoes.
- Is there a vegan version?
- Yes! Use vegan meatballs, vegetable broth, and plant-based milk.
- Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?
- Yes, simmer all ingredients (except kale and milk) for about 45 minutes until the sweet potatoes are tender. Add the kale and milk at the end.
Related Recipes for Slow Cooker Meatball Soup Lovers
- Ultimate Cowboy Casserole Cornbread – A hearty dish perfect for meatball soup lovers.
- Sausage Balls Recipe with Red Lobster Mix – Another great slow-cooker recipe for meat lovers.
Conclusion
Give this Slow Cooker Meatball, Sweet Potato, and Kale Soup a try! It’s perfect for busy days when you want a nourishing meal that practically cooks itself. We’d love to hear how you enjoyed it—leave a comment below with your personal twist or any adjustments you made. Happy cooking!
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Slow Cooker Meatball Soup Recipe: Sweet Potato & Kale
Description
Welcome, food enthusiasts! If you’re looking for a hearty, nutritious, and hassle-free meal, this Slow Cooker Meatball, Sweet Potato, and Kale Soup is your answer. With simple ingredients and a slow cooker, you can enjoy a comforting bowl of goodness that’s packed with flavors. This soup recipe is perfect for busy days, and it’s also a fantastic way to add more veggies and protein to your diet. Let’s dive into making this delicious, wholesome soup that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 1 (20 oz) bag frozen turkey meatballs – Look for party-size or kid-size for the perfect bite.
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil – Adds a nice touch of flavor and helps sauté the mirepoix.
- 1 cup mirepoix – A pre-chopped blend of onion, celery, and carrot, or 1 small onion and 1 stalk celery, chopped.
- 1 clove garlic, minced – Adds depth to the broth.
- 2 small sweet potatoes, cut into 1” cubes – Their sweetness complements the meatballs beautifully.
- 1 (8 oz) carton mushrooms, sliced (optional) – Optional, but adds a nice earthy flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon sage – A classic herb that enhances the aroma.
- 1 teaspoon oregano – Provides a savory touch.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper – Just a hint of spice to balance the flavors.
- 4 cups chicken broth – Choose fat-free, low-sodium for a lighter soup.
- 1 cup kale, rinsed and chopped – Adds texture and color.
- 2 cups 2% milk – Creates a creamy finish.
Substitution Suggestions:
- Swap turkey meatballs for beef or chicken meatballs.
- Use almond milk instead of 2% milk for a dairy-free option.
- Substitute sweet potatoes with butternut squash for a slightly different flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Start by prepping your vegetables: chop the sweet potatoes into 1” cubes and rinse the kale thoroughly.
- For a smoother soup, consider dicing the onions and celery finely.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
- In a large slow cooker, add the frozen meatballs, olive oil, mirepoix, garlic, sweet potatoes, mushrooms, and seasonings (salt, pepper, sage, oregano, cayenne pepper).
- Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the ingredients are well-covered.
Step 3: Cook Low and Slow
- Set your slow cooker on LOW and cook for 6-7 hours.
- Cooking Tip: For a stronger flavor, sauté the garlic and mirepoix in the olive oil before adding them to the slow cooker.
Step 4: Add the Milk and Kale
- About 10 minutes before serving, take 1/2 cup of hot soup from the slow cooker and mix it with the 2 cups of milk.
- Add the milk mixture and the chopped kale back into the slow cooker. Stir gently and let it cook for another 5-10 minutes, or until the kale is wilted.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal. Pair with some crusty bread for the perfect finish.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Using Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh garlic and herbs to enhance the flavor.
- Prevent Overcooking: Add the kale just before serving to keep it vibrant and crunchy.
- Freezing Tips: This soup freezes beautifully. Make a double batch and freeze the leftovers for busy weeknights.
