Italian Meatball Soup

Name: Italian Meatball Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup parsley, chopped; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 cups beef broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 carrot, diced; 1 celery stalk, diced; 1 onion, chopped; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Warm up with a comforting bowl of Italian Meatball Soup, packed with flavorful meatballs and hearty vegetables.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-06T15:07:20.721Z

This Italian Meatball Soup is a delightful blend of rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. Perfect for a cozy night in or serving guests, it showcases the essence of Italian comfort food.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty meatballs that are juicy and flavorful
Rich broth infused with Italian herbs
Loaded with nutritious vegetables for a wholesome meal

      

A Taste of Italy in Every Bite

Italian Meatball Soup is a delightful dish that encapsulates the essence of Italian comfort food. With its rich, aromatic broth and deliciously seasoned meatballs, each spoonful transports you straight to the heart of Italy. The combination of seasoned beef and fresh herbs creates a savory flavor profile that is both satisfying and memorable. This soup isn't just a meal; it's an experience that warms the soul and brings family together around the dinner table.

What sets this soup apart is its versatility. You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences. Feel free to substitute ground turkey for beef, or add in seasonal vegetables for a unique twist. The heartiness of this dish makes it perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering, ensuring that everyone leaves the table feeling full and happy.

Nutritional Benefits

Not only is Italian Meatball Soup delicious, but it's also packed with nutrition. The combination of vegetables like carrots, onions, and celery adds essential vitamins and minerals to each bowl. Carrots are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which supports eye health, while celery offers hydration and fiber. Together, these ingredients create a wholesome meal that nourishes your body and soul.

Moreover, the meatballs provide a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. By incorporating fresh herbs and spices, you not only enhance the flavor but also boost the nutritional profile of the soup. Each serving is a balanced combination of protein, vegetables, and healthy fats, making it a perfect choice for a nourishing lunch or dinner.

Perfect Pairings

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup parsley, chopped
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Soup

4 cups beef broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 carrot, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
1 onion, chopped
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Make the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

Cook the Meatballs

In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Prepare the Soup

In the same pot, add the onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Combine & Simmer

Return the meatballs to the pot. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil. Enjoy your Italian Meatball Soup!

Tips for Success

To ensure your meatballs are flavorful and juicy, don't skip the step of mixing the ingredients thoroughly. The combination of breadcrumbs and cheese helps to keep the meat moist and adds a rich depth of flavor. Also, consider letting the meatball mixture chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before forming them. This helps the flavors meld and makes them easier to handle.

For even more flavor, try searing the meatballs in batches instead of overcrowding the pot. This allows for better browning, which enhances the overall taste. Additionally, if you have time, let the soup simmer longer than the recommended 20 minutes. This will deepen the flavors even further, making your Italian Meatball Soup even more delicious.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Italian Meatball Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top, and it will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Just be sure to label your containers with the date for easy reference.

When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens during storage. This makes for a quick and satisfying meal that tastes almost as good as when it was freshly made. Enjoy the comforting flavors all over again!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative for a leaner option.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just ensure it's in an airtight container.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.