Description

Craving a cozy, hearty meal that’s full of comfort and flavor? This Meatball Stew with Orzo and White Beans is the perfect answer! Tender meatballs simmer in a rich broth with pasta and creamy white beans for a satisfying one-pot meal that’s easy enough for weeknights and special enough for weekends.

Want recipes like this delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe now to get the latest culinary creations you’ll love.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:
1 lb ground beef or chicken
½ cup breadcrumbs
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp Italian seasoning

For the Stew:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup orzo pasta
1 tsp dried thyme
½ tsp paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups baby spinach (optional, for extra greens)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Meatballs
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Mix gently until just combined.
Form into small 1-inch meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, until golden and cooked through. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery.
Cook for 5–6 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

Step 3: Build the Stew
Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer.
Add the cooked meatballs, white beans, orzo, dried thyme, and paprika.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Simmer
Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the orzo is tender and the stew has thickened slightly.

Step 5: Add Greens (Optional)
Stir in the baby spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes until wilted.

Step 6: Serve
Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Serve hot with crusty bread or a light side salad.

Notes

Don’t Overmix Meatballs – Mix ingredients gently to keep them tender.
Pre-Bake the Meatballs – Baking ensures they hold their shape in the stew.
Stir Often – Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent the orzo from sticking to the bottom.
Taste as You Go – Adjust seasonings once the orzo and beans have simmered.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Cuisine: American