Name: Italian Meatball Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 cup bread crumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 large egg; 2 garlic cloves, minced; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups beef broth; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 cup small pasta (such as orzo or ditalini); Fresh parsley, for garnish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Italian Meatball Soup is the perfect blend of comfort and flavor. The tiny, succulent meatballs create a satisfying texture in the rich, aromatic broth. It’s loaded with wholesome ingredients like fresh vegetables, garlic, and Italian seasoning, making it a balanced and tasty meal. Whether you prefer to enjoy it with crusty bread or on its own, this soup will become a family favorite. Plus, it’s easy to make, and leftovers taste even better the next day!

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup bread crumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 large egg
2 garlic cloves, minced
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups beef broth
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup small pasta (such as orzo or ditalini)
Fresh parsley, for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, cooking until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the meatballs and set aside.
In the same pot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pot. Stir to combine.
Return the meatballs to the pot and bring the soup to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
Add the pasta to the soup and cook according to the package instructions, about 8-10 minutes.
Once the pasta is cooked, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

Meat options: You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a lighter variation.
Vegetables: Add more vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers to enhance the flavor and nutrition of the soup.
Gluten-free: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta.
Spicy version: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Make sure to freeze the soup without pasta if you want to preserve its texture. Add fresh pasta when reheating.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through. If the soup thickens too much during storage, add a little broth or water to reach the desired consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked meatballs in this recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked meatballs, but keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly different, and you might need to adjust the cooking time.

2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.

3. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any small pasta you like, such as shells, elbow macaroni, or small fusilli. Just make sure to cook the pasta separately if you’re storing leftovers to prevent it from getting mushy.

4. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Brown the meatballs in a skillet first, then transfer them to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Add pasta in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

5. Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the meatballs with plant-based alternatives like vegetarian meatballs or make your own with beans and grains. Use vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.

6. How do I prevent the meatballs from falling apart?

Make sure to mix the meatball ingredients thoroughly and handle the meat mixture gently. Avoid overworking the meat, as this can cause the meatballs to become tough. Also, ensure the soup is simmering, not boiling, to keep the meatballs intact.

7. Can I add beans to this soup?

Yes, adding beans like cannellini beans or kidney beans is a great way to boost the fiber and protein content of the soup. Add them along with the broth and tomatoes.

8. What can I serve with Italian Meatball Soup?

Crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple salad make great side dishes. You can also serve it with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

9. Can I freeze the meatballs before cooking?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Cook them directly from frozen in the soup, adding extra time as needed.

10. Can I use chicken broth instead of beef broth?

Yes, you can use chicken broth for a lighter flavor. Both options will work well in this recipe.

Conclusion

Italian Meatball Soup is a versatile, comforting, and hearty dish that is sure to become a staple in your home. With juicy meatballs, a rich broth, and flavorful vegetables, it’s a meal that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this soup is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy it hot with some fresh bread, and savor the taste of Italy in every spoonful!