Meatball Soup

This creamy Italian meatball soup is a delightful twist on traditional flavors, perfect for cozy nights or casual gatherings. The hearty broth, packed with juicy meatballs and tender pasta, brings comfort in every spoonful. With its easy preparation and rich taste, this meatball soup is sure to become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This meatball soup can be made in just 35 minutes, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners.
• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of savory meatballs, vibrant herbs, and creamy broth creates a symphony of flavors that warms the soul.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize your meatballs or swap out the pasta for your favorite shapes to make it uniquely yours.
• One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy minimal cleanup with this all-in-one recipe; everything cooks together in one pot for maximum flavor and ease.
• Great for Leftovers: This soup stores beautifully in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying later.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for simmering the soup ingredients together while allowing ample space for stirring.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions and garlic quick and efficient, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious meatball soup, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 recipe of my homemade meatballs (or an 18-20 oz. bag of frozen meatballs, thawed)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 32 oz. chicken broth
• 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes
• 8 oz. (or about 2 1/2 cups) uncooked rotini pasta
• 2 cups baby spinach
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Kosher salt
• fresh cracked pepper
• shaved Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley for garnish

How to Make Meatball Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. Make my easy homemade Italian meatballs recipe or use an 18-20 oz. bag of frozen meatballs that have been thawed overnight in the fridge or cooked according to package directions.

Step 2: Sauté Onions

1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add diced yellow onion along with a couple large pinches of salt and pepper.
3. Cook, stirring occasionally for about 6–8 minutes until they start to brown and caramelize.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasoning

1. Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, tomato paste, and additional salt and pepper.
2. Cook for about 1 minute while stirring frequently.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

1. Add a few splashes of chicken broth to clean the bottom of the pot.
2. Scrape up any browned bits as you mix.

Step 5: Combine Remaining Ingredients

1. Pour in the remaining chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, uncooked pasta, and cooked meatballs.
2. Add more salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Simmer the Soup

1. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 12–15 minutes until pasta is cooked al dente.

Step 7: Finish with Spinach and Cream

1. Stir in baby spinach and heavy cream until the spinach wilts and everything is warmed through.

Step 8: Season and Serve

1. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
2. Garnish with shaved Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley before serving.

If you loved this recipe, please leave a 5-star rating and review below! Enjoy your comforting bowl of meatball soup!

How to Serve Meatball Soup

Serving meatball soup can elevate your dining experience and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Basil or Parsley: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley on top for a burst of flavor and color.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough or Baguette: Serve with warm, crusty sourdough bread or a baguette for dipping into the creamy broth.

Offer a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens: A light side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup.

Include Cheese Toppings

• Shaved Parmesan: Add shaved Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor and a gourmet touch.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Personal Touch: Present the soup in individual bowls for a cozy, personal dining experience.

Accompany with Grilled Vegetables

• Seasoned Veggies: Grilled seasonal vegetables can provide a nice contrast in texture and add healthy options to your meal.

How to Perfect Meatball Soup

Perfecting your meatball soup is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure it’s always a hit.

• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh herbs, high-quality broth, and good meatballs will enhance overall flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure the pasta stays al dente in the soup.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go; add salt and pepper gradually for better control over flavor.
• Incorporate Seasonal Vegetables: Adding seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers can boost nutrition and taste.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes before serving helps meld the flavors together.
• Consider Texture: For added creaminess, blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in for varied texture.

Best Side Dishes for Meatball Soup

Complement your meatball soup with these delicious side dishes that enhance your meal.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread pairs perfectly with meatball soup, perfect for dipping into the broth.
2. Caprese Salad: A fresh Caprese salad made with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offers a refreshing contrast.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables bring additional flavor and nutrients to your dinner table.
4. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch with romaine lettuce and croutons dressed in a creamy dressing.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms filled with cheese and herbs make for an elegant appetizer.
6. Pasta Primavera: A light pasta primavera dish can complement the hearty meatball soup without overpowering it.
7. Polenta Cakes: Creamy polenta cakes provide a delightful texture that pairs well with the soup’s richness.
8. Antipasto Platter: An antipasto platter featuring olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables offers variety and excitement.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making meatball soup can be easy, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Using Frozen Meatballs Incorrectly – If you choose frozen meatballs, ensure they are thawed properly. Cooking them from frozen can make them tough and rubbery.
• Overcooking the Pasta – Adding pasta directly into the soup without monitoring can lead to mushy noodles. Cook it just until al dente for the best texture.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments – Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed while cooking. This helps enhance the flavors of your meatball soup.
• Skipping Fresh Ingredients – Fresh herbs and vegetables add depth to your soup. Don’t skip these; they elevate the overall taste significantly.
• Ignoring Broth Quality – Using low-quality broth can negatively impact your soup’s flavor. Opt for a good-quality chicken broth for a richer taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Meatball Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Meatball Soup

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warmed through.
• Microwave – Heat in microwave-safe bowls, stirring occasionally for even warming.
• Stovetop – Reheat on medium heat, stirring often until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Meatball Soup?

Meatball soup is a hearty dish featuring flavorful meatballs simmered in a creamy broth with pasta and vegetables, perfect for cozy nights.

Can I use turkey instead of beef in Meatball Soup?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and will still provide delicious results in your meatball soup.

How do I make Meatball Soup vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version, substitute meatballs with plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What herbs work best in Meatball Soup?

Fresh basil, oregano, and thyme complement the flavors well. You can also use Italian seasoning for added convenience.

Final Thoughts

This creamy meatball soup is not only comforting but also versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of pasta. It’s perfect for any night of the week!