If you’re like me and have struggled with weight loss, constantly battling to stay on track with diet plans that never seem to stick, then you know how crucial it is to find meals that are not only healthy but also enjoyable and easy to prepare. Enter the five-ingredient weight loss soup—a game changer in my journey to shedding pounds and maintaining a balanced diet. This hearty meatball soup is not only simple to make but also satisfying, making meal prep a breeze and helping me to finally adhere to portion control. It’s the recipe that played a pivotal role in my transformation, helping me lose 50 pounds in just three months and a total of 130 pounds over time, all while keeping the weight off for a full decade. Join me in this blog as I take you through the process of creating this delicious, filling soup that’s perfect for anyone looking to make a sustainable change in their eating habits.

The Ingredients:

• Lean Angus Meatballs: I used 32 lean Angus meatballs for this recipe, which I found at Walmart. The choice of meatballs is crucial as it provides the primary protein source for the soup, ensuring you feel fuller for longer. Opting for lean options also helps keep the calories in check.
• Diced Frozen Onion: The convenience of using half a cup of diced frozen onions cannot be overstated. It minimizes prep time and adds a burst of flavor to the soup. Remember to thaw it before adding it to your recipe to get the best texture and taste.
• Diced Canned Potatoes: These white diced potatoes are another convenient addition, easily available at most grocery stores. They add a hearty element to the soup without clashing with the low-calorie goal.
• Sliced Carrots: The use of two cans of sliced carrots not only contributes to the nutritional value of the soup but also adds a delightful color contrast. Carrots are rich in vitamins and naturally sweet, making them a great choice for an all-rounded dish.
• Chicken Broth: I used 12 cups of chicken broth for the base, opting for a low-sodium version. By doing this, you can enjoy the rich flavor without worrying about consuming too much salt, which is often a concern in pre-packaged broths.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preparation: Start by thawing the frozen onions in the microwave for about 1.5 to 2 minutes until they are ready for sautéing. Meanwhile, preheat your air fryer to 390°F to cook the meatballs. A quick sauté of the onions in a pan with cooking spray adds a lovely depth of flavor as they caramelize slightly.
2. Cook the Meatballs: Place the meatballs in the air fryer single-layered and let them cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the process to ensure even cooking. The air fryer gives them a nice texture without the added oil typically used in pan-frying.
3. Broth and Vegetables: Measure out three cups of broth into each of your meal prep containers. Distribute your drained potatoes, carrots, and sautéed onions evenly among them. It’s essential to measure these ingredients accurately to maintain portion control and caloric intake.
4. Combine Everything: Once the meatballs are done, add eight to each bowl, ensuring each serving gets an equal amount of protein. This will help you avoid the common pitfall of uneven portion sizes that can lead to consuming either too many or too few calories.
5. Storage and Reheating: If you’re not eating the soup immediately, they keep well in the fridge for up to four days or can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave to your preferred temperature.

Nutritional Information:

Each bowl of this soup contains approximately 334 calories, 9 grams of fat, 29 grams of carbohydrates, and 29 grams of protein. These nutritional values make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to lose weight and manage hunger effectively.

One of the reasons I was successful in keeping the weight off was through consistency and making meals like this a staple in my diet. The soup is not only filling but versatile. You can switch out the veggies or even the type of protein to keep things interesting. It’s also a great meal to customize for different dietary preferences or restrictions.

This recipe isn’t just about losing weight; it’s about creating a sustainable lifestyle change. By preparing meals that are not only good for you but that you also enjoy, you’re more likely to stick with your dietary goals. This soup represents a new way of thinking about meals for me—simple, delicious, and effective.

So, whether you’re starting your own weight-loss journey or just looking for a wholesome meal, this five-ingredient weight loss soup is a wonderful addition to any menu. It’s proof that sometimes the simplest solutions can lead to the most significant results. Give it a try, and maybe it’ll help you transform your relationship with food just like it did for me. Remember, weight loss isn’t only about numbers on a scale; it’s about feeling good inside and out.