Hey y’all! Sheila here, welcoming you into my kitchen. I’m so excited to share with you a recipe by the famous Paula Deen for the most incredible Paula Deen Meatball Recipe and Orzo Soup. I got inspired to make this dish from Paula Deen.
She recently made this recipe for the family, which is absolutely delicious. Perfect for fall, this hearty soup is tasty and a healthier option with ground chicken.
Additional Meatball Recipes Resources:
Paula Deen Meatball Recipe
Mix ground chicken with Parmesan, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt to make Paula Deen Meatball and Orzo Soup. Brown meatballs, sauté vegetables, add chicken broth, simmer, and then incorporate lemon zest, lemon juice, and orzo.
Adjust seasoning, serve, and enjoy this delicious and hearty soup!
Paula Deen Meatball Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for cooking meatballs)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for sautéing vegetables)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 cup orzo
- Chicken stock (as needed)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Cooking spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grater (for Parmesan cheese)
- Peeler (for carrots)
- Lemon zester
- Ladle
Instructions
I'm excited to share this recipe with you, so let's dive in!
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
In a bowl, combine ground chicken, Parmesan cheese, Panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and kosher salt.
Form the mixture into meatballs, making sure not to overwork them. Aim for a light and airy texture.
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pot. Brown the meatballs, shaking the pot gently to keep them rolling. Set aside when browned.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In the same pot, add another tablespoon of oil. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery until slightly softened. This step gives the vegetables a head start and adds extra flavor to the soup.
Step 3: Cooking the Soup:
Pour in the chicken broth, add bay leaves, and bring the mixture to a boil.
Lower the heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes.
Step 4: Add Meatballs
After 30 minutes, add the meatballs to the soup and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Add Lemon Zest, Lemon Juice, and Orzo: Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, and orzo. Continue cooking for 10 more minutes or until the orzo is tender.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning
Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper if needed. If the liquid has reduced too much, add more chicken stock for the desired consistency.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, dill, or additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken for the meatballs?
You can substitute ground turkey for the ground chicken in this recipe. It’s a versatile option that won’t compromise the soup’s deliciousness.
Can I make the meatballs in advance and freeze them?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs in advance and freeze them. When ready to use, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and proceed with the recipe as directed.
What can I use as a substitute for orzo?
If you don’t have orzo, you can use any small pasta of your choice, such as ditalini or small macaroni. Adjust the cooking time according to the instructions on the pasta package.
Is it necessary to use fresh lemon zest, or can I use pre-packaged lemon zest?
While fresh lemon zest provides the best flavor, you can use pre-packaged lemon zest as a convenient alternative. Just be sure to check the packaging for any additional ingredients.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Cook the meatballs on the stovetop, then transfer them along with sautéed vegetables, broth, and other ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the orzo is tender.
Are there any recommended side dishes to serve with this soup?
Paula Deen suggests serving this soup with a hot loaf of French bread, as mentioned in her story. Alternatively, you can pair it with a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
How long will leftovers last, and can I freeze the soup?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup in airtight containers for up to 2-3 months. Thaw and reheat on the stovetop when ready to enjoy.
What variations can I make to this recipe?
You can add your favorite vegetables or herbs. Some suggested additions include spinach, diced tomatoes, or fresh herbs like parsley and dill.
Is this soup suitable for a low-carb diet?
While the orzo adds carbs to the soup, you can make it more low-carb-friendly by reducing the amount of orzo or omitting it altogether. Consider substituting with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
Can I use homemade chicken broth, or is store-bought broth acceptable?
Paula Deen mentions using homemade chicken broth, which adds a rich flavor to the soup. However, if you’re short on time, high-quality store-bought chicken broth can be a convenient and tasty alternative.
Conclusion
This Paula Deen Meatball Recipe and Orzo Soup is a delightful combination of flavors with a hint of lemon freshness. It’s a comforting and hearty meal perfect for chilly fall days. I hope you enjoy making and savoring this recipe with your loved ones.