Name: Italian Meatball Soup: Comfort in a Bowl Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (or turkey); ½ cup breadcrumbs; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 large egg; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 2 cups fresh spinach (or kale); 1 cup small pasta (ditalini or orzo); Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe

If you’re searching for a warm, hearty dish that feels like a loving hug on a chilly day, then this Italian Meatball Soup: Comfort in a Bowl is exactly what you need. It blends tender, juicy meatballs with fresh vegetables, a savory tomato broth, and little pasta bites that soak up all that delicious flavor. Each spoonful delivers an irresistible mix of textures and tastes that instantly transport you to an Italian kitchen, all while offering the nourishing goodness that only homemade soup can bring. Let’s dive into this soul-satisfying recipe that’s sure to become one of your all-time favorites.

Italian Meatball Soup: Comfort in a Bowl Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Italian Meatball Soup: Comfort in a Bowl relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that work beautifully together. Each element plays an essential role, from the flavorful meatballs to the vibrant vegetables and aromatic herbs, creating a balanced, colorful soup that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Ground beef (or turkey): The foundation of the meatballs, providing juicy richness and protein.
Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs, keeping them tender and perfectly shaped.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor that elevates the meatballs’ taste.
Fresh parsley: Offers a fresh herbaceous note, brightening both the meatballs and the soup.
Garlic: Adds depth and a warm, aromatic punch to both the meatballs and the broth.
Egg: Works as a binder, giving the meatballs structure without drying them out.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing and browning, imparting a subtle fruity richness.
Onion, carrots, and celery: Classic soffritto vegetables that create a flavorful, hearty base for the soup.
Crushed tomatoes: Bring acidity and sweetness that balance the savory meat.
Chicken or vegetable broth: The liquid that carries all the flavors and keeps the soup comforting.
Dried basil and oregano: Infuse the broth with traditional Italian herbaceousness.
Red pepper flakes (optional): Add a gentle heat that wakes up the palate without overpowering the soup.
Fresh spinach or kale: Provide vibrant color and a boost of nutrition.
Small pasta (ditalini or orzo): Soft, tender bites that absorb the broth and make the soup extra satisfying.
Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring out and balance all the flavors beautifully.

How to Make Italian Meatball Soup: Comfort in a Bowl

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

Start by combining ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix gently until everything is just incorporated—overmixing can make the meatballs tough. Shape the mixture into small, uniform 1-inch meatballs so they cook evenly and perfectly tender every time.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the meatballs. Brown them on all sides for about 5 minutes; this step locks in flavor and creates a beautiful golden crust. Once browned, remove the meatballs from the pot and set them aside. Don’t worry—they’ll finish cooking in the soup, soaking up even more deliciousness.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Using the same pot with those tasty browned bits left behind, toss in the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Then stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute—this builds the deep, savory base that makes this soup so comforting.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken or vegetable broth. Sprinkle in dried basil, oregano, and if you prefer a little kick, some red pepper flakes. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture up to a gentle simmer—this is where the magic starts to meld.

Step 5: Cook the Meatballs

Return the browned meatballs to the pot, nestling them gently into the simmering broth. Let everything cook together for 15 to 20 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through, tender, and bursting with flavor. This slow mingling is the heart of Italian Meatball Soup: Comfort in a Bowl.

Step 6: Add Greens and Pasta

Lastly, stir in fresh spinach or kale and your choice of small pasta like ditalini or orzo. Cook until the pasta is just al dente—about 8 to 10 minutes—so it’s tender but still has a slight bite. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed to finish off this cozy feast.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Italian Meatball Soup: Comfort in a Bowl hot, ladled into bowls with an optional sprinkle of extra Parmesan and fresh parsley. Every spoonful delivers warmth, heartiness, and a burst of classic Italian flavor that feels like a personal embrace.

How to Serve Italian Meatball Soup: Comfort in a Bowl

Garnishes

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley add an inviting finish that enhances taste and appearance. A drizzle of good quality olive oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a personal touch and a bit of extra flavor drama.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty Italian bread or garlic breadsticks to soak up every last drop of broth. A light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also balance the richness and provide a refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Italian Meatball Soup: Comfort in a Bowl in rustic mugs for a casual lunch or in deep ceramic bowls for an elegant dinner. Adding a Parmesan crisp on top or swirling in a dollop of pesto can elevate presentation and taste, making it a conversation starter at any table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, so it tastes even better the next day.

Freezing

This soup freezes wonderfully. Place cooled soup in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy days.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You might need to add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened during storage or freezing.

FAQs

Can I use turkey instead of beef for the meatballs?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and offers a leaner alternative, though you might want to add a touch of olive oil or moisture to keep the meatballs juicy.

What pasta works best in Italian Meatball Soup: Comfort in a Bowl?

Small pastas like ditalini, orzo, or even tiny shells work best because they cook quickly and fit nicely with the size of the meatballs and vegetables.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the meatballs for plant-based meatballs or roasted chickpeas, and use vegetable broth to keep the flavors vibrant and satisfying.

How spicy is the soup with red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add just a gentle heat that enhances the overall flavor without overwhelming it. You can always adjust or omit them to suit your spice preference.

Is it okay to freeze the soup with pasta in it?

It’s better to freeze the soup without the pasta, then cook fresh pasta when you reheat. This keeps the pasta from becoming mushy after freezing and thawing.

Final Thoughts

Making Italian Meatball Soup: Comfort in a Bowl is like crafting a warm hug you can eat, perfect on any day you crave something wholesome with a burst of rustic Italian charm. It’s straightforward to prepare, endlessly satisfying, and a wonderful way to bring family and friends together. I hope you enjoy every flavorful spoonful as much as I do!

Italian Meatball Soup: Comfort in a Bowl Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 7 reviews

Author: Rafael
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

This Italian Meatball Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender homemade meatballs with a flavorful tomato broth, fresh vegetables, and tender pasta. Perfect for warming up on a chilly day, it offers a balanced meal packed with protein, fiber, and vibrant flavors.

Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined to keep the meatballs tender. Shape the mixture into approximately 1-inch diameter meatballs and set aside.
Brown the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Be careful not to overcrowd the pot. Remove browned meatballs and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add chopped onions, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes or until the vegetables are softened and aromatic. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken or vegetable broth. Stir in dried basil, oregano, and optional red pepper flakes for a slight kick. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Cook the Meatballs: Return the browned meatballs back to the pot. Let the soup simmer with the meatballs for 15 to 20 minutes, until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
Add Greens and Pasta: Stir in fresh spinach (or kale) and small pasta like ditalini or orzo. Continue cooking for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and the greens have wilted. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot for a comforting meal.

Notes

Ground turkey can be used instead of beef for a leaner option.
For gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta.
Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Adjust red pepper flakes according to heat preference or omit if sensitive to spice.
Using homemade broth will enhance the flavor but store-bought works well too.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Simmering, Browning
Cuisine: Italian