Name: Comforting Matzo Ball Soup for Cozy Days At Home
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 120 min
Ingredients: 2 Tbsp Vegetable or Canola Oil (Can substitute with chicken fat (schmaltz) for richer flavor.); 2 cloves Garlic (Fresh garlic is preferred for best results.); 1 Yellow Onion (Yellow or sweet onions work well.); 3 Carrots (Any variety of carrots can be used; consider using parsnips for extra flavor.); 3 Celery Stalks (Can be replaced with bell peppers for a different taste.); 2 pieces Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (Bone-in chicken can be used for more flavor; remove skin before cooking.); 6 cups Chicken Broth (Use low-sodium broth, or make your own for a healthier option.); 2 cups Water (All broth can be used instead of water for a richer flavor.); Freshly Cracked Pepper (Adjust to taste; consider using crushed black pepper for a stronger flavor.); few sprigs Fresh Dill (Substitute with parsley if desired.); 3 large Eggs (For lighter matzo balls, you can add seltzer water in place of some eggs.); 3/4 cup Matzo Meal (Use only matzo meal for best texture.); 1 tsp Salt (Adjust according to dietary needs; consider using kosher salt.); 1/2 tsp Baking Powder (Ensure it’s fresh for best results.); 3 Tbsp Water (If using seltzer, decrease other liquid quantities accordingly.)

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As the aroma of simmering chicken fills the air, I’m transported back to my grandmother’s kitchen—where laughter mingled with the comforting scent of her legendary Matzo Ball Soup. This dish isn’t just hearty; it’s the kind of comfort food that brings solace on a rainy day or joy during Passover gatherings. With tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and fluffy matzo balls, this recipe checks all the boxes for a delightful meal—quick to prepare and budget-friendly. Whether it’s nourishing your soul or warming your heart, this matzo ball soup is an everyday classic that’s perfect for any occasion. What will you pair it with to make it your own?

Why is Matzo Ball Soup So Irresistible?

Comforting Tradition: This soup is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, filled with memories of family gatherings and celebrations.
Quick & Easy: With straightforward instructions, you’ll have a hearty pot simmering in no time, perfect for those busy weeknights or when unexpected guests drop by.
Flavorful & Nourishing: The rich broth, fresh veggies, and light matzo balls create a delicious harmony of flavors that can brighten even the gloomiest of days.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or using a different type of broth, making it suitable for every palate. You could also explore my recipe for Sweet Potato Soup for another comforting option!
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive occasion like Passover, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table, offering both flavor and nostalgia.

Matzo Ball Soup Ingredients

For the Soup
• Vegetable or Canola Oil – Adds fat for sautéing and matzo ball texture. Can substitute with chicken fat (schmaltz) for richer flavor.
• Garlic (2 cloves) – Provides a fragrant base flavor. Fresh garlic is preferred for best results.
• Yellow Onion (1) – Enhances sweetness and depth in the soup. Yellow or sweet onions work well.
• Carrots (3) – Adds sweetness and color. Any variety of carrots can be used; consider using parsnips for extra flavor.
• Celery Stalks (3) – Contributes crunch and a mild, savory flavor. Can be replaced with bell peppers for a different taste.
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (2, ~1.25 lb.) – Main protein source, creating a rich broth. Bone-in chicken can be used for more flavor; remove skin before cooking.
• Chicken Broth (6 cups) – Base for the soup, providing depth of flavor. Use low-sodium broth, or make your own for a healthier option.
• Water (2 cups) – Dilutes the broth slightly. All broth can be used instead of water for a richer flavor.
• Freshly Cracked Pepper – Adds seasoning. Adjust to taste; consider using crushed black pepper for a stronger flavor.
• Fresh Dill (few sprigs) – A classic herb that brightens the soup. Substitute with parsley if desired.

For the Matzo Balls
• Large Eggs (3) – Binds matzo ball ingredients, contributing to fluffiness. For lighter matzo balls, you can add seltzer water in place of some eggs.
• Matzo Meal (3/4 cup) – Main ingredient for the dumplings. Do not substitute with matzo ball mix; use only matzo meal for best texture.
• Salt (1 tsp) – Enhances all other flavors in the recipe. Adjust according to dietary needs; consider using kosher salt.
• Baking Powder (1/2 tsp) – Helps matzo balls rise, making them fluffy. Ensure it’s fresh for best results.
• Water (3 Tbsp) – Added to the matzo ball mixture for moisture. If using seltzer, decrease other liquid quantities accordingly.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Matzo Ball Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of vegetable or canola oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic, diced onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery, stirring frequently for about 5 minutes, until the onions turn translucent and fragrant. This foundational step builds a rich flavor base for your comforting Matzo Ball Soup.

Step 2: Create the Broth
Next, add the boneless skinless chicken breasts to the pot along with 6 cups of chicken broth and 2 cups of water. Sprinkle in freshly cracked pepper and place a few sprigs of fresh dill on top. Cover the pot and bring everything to a boil over medium-high heat, which should take about 10-12 minutes.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup gently simmer for 30 minutes. This allows the chicken to cook through and the flavors to meld beautifully. The chicken should be tender and the broth fragrant, creating the perfect foundation for your hearty Matzo Ball Soup.

Step 4: Prepare the Matzo Ball Mixture
While the soup is simmering, whisk together 3 large eggs and 2 tablespoons of oil in a mixing bowl. Gradually mix in 3/4 cup of matzo meal, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and freshly cracked pepper. Add 3 tablespoons of water, stir until well combined, then cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken
After simmering, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the pot. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return them to the pot. Taste the broth and adjust the salt if needed, enriching the flavor of your Matzo Ball Soup just before introducing the matzo balls.

Step 6: Form the Matzo Balls
With your mixture chilled, wet your hands with water to prevent sticking, then form the matzo ball mixture into 1-inch balls. Gently drop them into the simmering broth, ensuring they don’t touch the sides of the pot too much. Cover the pot and let them cook undisturbed for 20 minutes, allowing them to steam and rise perfectly.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish
After 20 minutes, your matzo balls should be fluffy and the soup ready. Ladle the comforting Matzo Ball Soup into bowls, garnishing with additional fresh dill if desired. Enjoy the warmth of this heartwarming dish, perfect for cozy days and festive occasions alike!

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Matzo Ball Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the soup base (steps 1-3) up to 3 days in advance. Simply sauté the vegetables, add the chicken, and simmer to create a rich broth; let it cool before refrigerating in an airtight container. For the matzo balls, mix the ingredients and chill for up to 24 hours in advance. When ready to serve, heat the broth and ensure you form and cook the matzo balls directly in the simmering soup, which will keep them fluffy and delicious. With these make-ahead options, you can enjoy comforting Matzo Ball Soup with minimal effort on busy days!

Expert Tips for Matzo Ball Soup

Fluffy Matzo Balls: Ensure not to open the lid while the matzo balls cook. This keeps the steam in, which is essential for their fluffiness.
Proper Mixing: If the matzo mixture feels too sticky to handle, wet your hands lightly with water. This makes forming the balls much easier.
Enhance Flavor: Consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of zest just before serving. This brightens the flavors of your matzo ball soup beautifully.
Adjust to Taste: Always taste your broth before serving; you may want to adjust the salt to your preference, especially if using low-sodium broth.
Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the matzo balls ahead of time and freeze them. Just remember to cook them fresh in the soup for the best texture!

What to Serve with Easy Matzo Ball Soup

As the rich, savory aroma of matzo ball soup fills the kitchen, you’ll want to create a full meal that delights all the senses.

Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf is essential for soaking up the comforting broth, enhancing your dining experience.
Roasted Vegetables: Sweet, caramelized veggies like carrots and Brussels sprouts provide a delightful contrast to the soup’s soft textures.
Simple Salad: A bright, refreshing salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette adds a tangy balance and crispness to each spoonful of soup.
Challah Rolls: Soft, slightly sweet challah complements the soup beautifully, making each bite feel like a warm hug of comfort from the heart.
Matzo Crackers: Perfect for dipping, these add an extra crunch that pairs well with the soft matzo balls, creating a delightful texture contrast.
Seltzer with Lemon: This fizzy drink cuts through the richness of the soup, giving a refreshing lift that enhances every bite.
Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp offers warmth and sweetness that rounds out this comforting meal.
Herb Tea: A soothing herbal tea, particularly chamomile or mint, can help cleanse the palate and add a cozy touch to your meal.

These pairings not only complement your easy matzo ball soup but create a cozy dining experience that will linger in your heart long after the last bite.

How to Store and Freeze Matzo Ball Soup

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Ensure the soup is cooled completely before sealing to maintain its flavors and prevent spoilage.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the matzo ball soup without matzo balls for up to 3 months. This helps retain the texture and flavor of the soup.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge, then warm it gently on the stove. If the matzo balls are frozen separately, add them to the soup during reheating for a fresh taste.

Matzo Ball Storage: If you’ve made extra matzo balls, freeze them individually on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months as well.

Matzo Ball Soup Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this cozy recipe truly yours by trying out these fun variations!

Chicken Thighs: Swap chicken breasts with thighs for a richer flavor. They add a delicious depth that enhances the broth.
Vegetarian Delight: Use vegetable broth and replace the chicken with hearty mushrooms for a savory vegetarian version. It’s comforting without missing a beat!
Extra Veggies: Toss in frozen peas or fresh spinach towards the end of cooking for a nutritionally-packed boost. These additions brighten up the soup both in color and flavor.
Dill Alternatives: If dill isn’t your favorite, fresh parsley works just as well. It brings a fresh brightness that complements the soup wonderfully.
Seltzer Surprise: For lighter matzo balls, replace some eggs with seltzer water. This little trick makes them even fluffier!
Zesty Kick: Add a splash of fresh lemon juice just before serving for a zesty twist. It elevates the flavors and adds a refreshing depth.
More Cozy Flavors: Introduce garlic powder or smoked paprika to the soup for an extra layer of flavor. You won’t believe how these subtle differences transform your dish!
Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary in addition to dill or parsley. Each brings its own unique character to the soup.

With all these delightful options, you can have a different matzo ball soup experience every time! And if you’re in the mood for something else, why not check out my Roasted Cauliflower Soup or Slow Cooker Meatballs for a change of pace that still feels wonderfully homey?

Matzo Ball Soup Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best ingredients for Matzo Ball Soup?
Absolutely! For the best flavors, pick ripe vegetables. Look for vibrant carrots without dark spots and firm celery stalks. When selecting chicken, boneless skinless breasts are preferred for ease, but consider bone-in for richer broth. Fresh herbs like dill should be bright and fragrant, indicating freshness and optimal flavor.

What’s the best way to store leftover Matzo Ball Soup?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure the soup cools completely before sealing it to maintain its flavor. A tip is to label your containers with the date for easy reference!

How can I freeze Matzo Ball Soup without compromising texture?
To freeze Matzo Ball Soup effectively, omit the matzo balls from the soup before freezing. This way, you can store the soup for up to 3 months without losing the fluffiness of the matzo balls. For freezing, pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe bags or containers. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.

What should I do if my matzo balls turn out too dense?
Very! If your matzo balls are dense, it’s often due to overmixing the batter or not enough moisture. Ensure you’re mixing just until combined and consider adding a little seltzer water to lighten the texture. If they’re too sticky while forming, wet your hands with water to help shape them without the mixture clinging.

Can I adapt Matzo Ball Soup for dietary restrictions?
Yes! This recipe is highly adaptable. To make it vegetarian, substitute chicken with vegetable broth and omit the meat. For those with gluten sensitivities, use gluten-free matzo meal, and always check ingredient labels. If you’re cooking for pets, remember that onions and garlic can be toxic to dogs and cats, so keep them away from the finished broth.

Are there specific ways to enhance the flavor of Matzo Ball Soup?
Absolutely! A common enhancement is to add a splash of lemon juice near the end of cooking or just before serving. Fresh herbs, like parsley, can give the soup a delightful fresh taste. Additionally, tasting the broth and adjusting the salt can make a world of difference in flavor balance.