Meatball Soup

This meatball soup recipe is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish delivers warmth and satisfaction. The creamy tomato broth envelops juicy meatballs and tender pasta, making every spoonful a delightful experience. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this soup is bound to become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This one-pot recipe makes preparing meatball soup a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your meal sooner.
• Flavorful Comfort: The combination of creamy broth and seasoned meatballs creates a comforting flavor that warms the soul.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a hearty main dish or an appetizer, this soup fits into any meal plan.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with spinach and tomatoes, this soup includes nutritious elements without sacrificing taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for family dinners or gatherings, everyone will love this delicious meatball soup.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your experience and make it enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking the entire soup in one vessel, ensuring all flavors meld beautifully.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe space for chopping vegetables and prepping ingredients quickly.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures accuracy in seasoning for perfect flavor balance every time.

Ingredients

This creamy Italian meatball soup recipe comes together in one pot and is loaded with juicy meatballs and al dente pasta nestled in an herb-filled creamy tomato broth. It’s everything you love about Sunday night spaghetti dinner in a warm, comforting bowl of soup!

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

Start by making my easy homemade Italian meatballs recipe, my air fryer 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 the Onions

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

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, tomato paste, and more salt and pepper. Cook while stirring frequently for about 1 minute to release their flavors.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

Add a few splashes of chicken broth to clean the bottom of the pot by scraping off any bits stuck there.

Step 5: Combine Main Ingredients

Stir in remaining chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, uncooked pasta, and cooked meatballs along with additional salt and pepper.

Step 6: Simmer

Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat. Reduce heat to low and simmer covered for about 12–15 minutes until pasta is cooked al dente.

Step 7: Add Spinach & Cream

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

Step 8: Season & Serve

Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with shaved Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley before serving warm!

Step 9: Rate & Review

If you loved this recipe, leave a 5-star rating and review below!

How to Serve Meatball Soup

Meatball soup is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions that complement this creamy Italian meatball soup beautifully.

With Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread – Serve slices of toasted garlic bread for a crunchy, flavorful addition.
• Baguette – A warm, fresh baguette is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Basil – Sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of flavor and freshness.
• Parsley – Chopped parsley adds color and enhances the visual appeal of the dish.

Accompanied by Salads

• Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad pairs well with meatball soup, adding a crispy texture.
• Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.

With Cheese

• Shredded Mozzarella – Melted mozzarella on top creates a gooey layer that’s irresistible.
• Parmesan Cheese – A sprinkle of grated Parmesan boosts the umami flavor profile.

How to Perfect Meatball Soup

Creating the perfect meatball soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Quality Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and high-quality meatballs make a significant difference in flavor.
• Adjust Seasoning – Taste as you cook. Don’t hesitate to add more salt or seasoning to enhance the flavors.
• Cook Pasta Separately – If you prefer your pasta less soggy, consider cooking it separately and adding it just before serving.
• Experiment with Broth – Try using homemade chicken broth for a richer taste compared to store-bought options.
• Let It Rest – Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking can deepen the flavors even more.

Best Side Dishes for Meatball Soup

Serving side dishes alongside your meatball soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Knots – These buttery, garlicky knots are perfect for dipping into your soup.
2. Bruschetta – Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil provides a refreshing bite.
3. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances out the richness of the soup.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and nutrition to your table.
5. Stuffed Peppers – Flavorful stuffed peppers can be filling and pair well with the soup’s creamy texture.
6. Antipasto Platter – A selection of cured meats, cheeses, and olives offers variety and excitement alongside your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making meatball soup, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Using tough meatballs: Ensure your meatballs are tender and juicy. If using frozen meatballs, thaw them properly before adding them to the soup.
• Overcooking the pasta: Keep an eye on the cooking time. Undercook the pasta slightly, as it will continue to cook in the soup.
• Not seasoning properly: Taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper throughout the cooking process for a well-balanced flavor.
• Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh parsley or basil can brighten up your dish. Always add fresh herbs at the end for maximum flavor.
• Neglecting to scrape the pot: Be sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot after sautéing. This adds depth and richness to your soup.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Meatball soup can last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Meatball Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Meatball Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Transfer soup to an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Meatball Soup?

Meatball soup is a comforting dish made with tender meatballs, pasta, and vegetables simmered in a rich broth. It’s perfect for chilly evenings.

Can I use store-bought meatballs for Meatball Soup?

Yes! Store-bought frozen meatballs work well if you’re short on time. Just ensure they are thawed and cooked before adding them to your soup.

How do I add more flavor to Meatball Soup?

Incorporate additional herbs like thyme or rosemary, or add a splash of red wine during cooking for extra depth of flavor.

Is Meatball Soup healthy?

This recipe can be quite nutritious! It includes protein from meatballs and fiber from spinach and tomatoes. Adjust ingredients as desired for dietary needs.

Can I customize my Meatball Soup?

Absolutely! You can swap different types of pasta, add veggies like carrots or zucchini, or use ground turkey instead of beef for lighter options.

Final Thoughts

This creamy Italian meatball soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients or change up the seasonings based on what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!