Italian Meatball Soup
Highlighted under: Homestyle Meals
A hearty and comforting soup filled with delicious meatballs and rich flavors.
This Italian Meatball Soup is a family favorite, combining tender meatballs with a savory tomato broth. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a comforting meal any time of year.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Juicy meatballs packed with Italian herbs
- Rich and flavorful broth that warms the soul
- Easy to make and perfect for leftovers
A Comforting Classic
Italian Meatball Soup is a beloved dish that warms both the heart and the soul. This soup is not just about the meatballs; it’s a delightful combination of flavors that come together to create a comforting bowl of goodness. Each spoonful is a reminder of family gatherings and cozy nights spent around the dinner table.
This recipe brings traditional Italian cuisine to your kitchen, allowing you to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. The hearty meatballs simmered in a rich broth filled with vegetables create a satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion.
Perfect for Any Season
Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a rainy fall day, Italian Meatball Soup is the perfect remedy. Its warm and hearty nature makes it an ideal dish to enjoy with loved ones. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal that will leave everyone feeling satisfied.
This soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of meat for the meatballs. This flexibility makes it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend dinners.
Leftovers that Delight
One of the best things about Italian Meatball Soup is how well it stores. The flavors deepen and improve overnight, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Simply store any leftovers in the refrigerator, and you'll have a delicious lunch or dinner ready to go.
Reheating is a breeze—just warm it up on the stove or in the microwave, and you’ll have a comforting meal in minutes. This makes it not only a crowd-pleaser but also a practical choice for busy lifestyles.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Soup
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Mix all meatball ingredients in a bowl and form into small balls. Set aside.
Instructions
Prepare the Meatballs
In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and form into small meatballs.
Cook the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add Broth and Meatballs
Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then gently add the meatballs. Reduce heat and let simmer for 25-30 minutes.
Season and Serve
Stir in dried basil and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Enjoy your delicious Italian Meatball Soup!
Tips for Making the Best Meatballs
To achieve juicy and flavorful meatballs, make sure not to overmix the ingredients. Combine them gently, just until they hold together. This ensures a tender texture that melts in your mouth.
Consider using a mix of meats, like ground pork or turkey, alongside beef for added flavor and texture. Additionally, letting the meatballs rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before cooking can help them hold their shape during simmering.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Italian Meatball Soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Crusty Italian bread or garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the rich broth, enhancing the dining experience.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes for heat or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the dish. These simple additions can elevate your soup to new heights.
Storage and Freezing
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making the soup even more delicious the next day.
To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for a quick meal any day of the week.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a lighter option.
→ How can I make this soup vegetarian?
Replace the meatballs with vegetarian ones and use vegetable broth.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
→ What should I serve with this soup?
A side of crusty bread or a fresh salad pairs perfectly with this soup.
Italian Meatball Soup
A hearty and comforting soup filled with delicious meatballs and rich flavors.
Created by: Emma Johnson
Recipe Type: Homestyle Meals
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Soup
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and form into small meatballs.
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then gently add the meatballs. Reduce heat and let simmer for 25-30 minutes.
Stir in dried basil and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 25g