Italian Meatball Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl, bursting with flavors that dance on your taste buds. Imagine the rich aroma of simmering tomatoes mingling with fragrant herbs and tender meatballs, creating a symphony of comfort that wraps around you like your favorite blanket. classic chicken noodle soup cozy chicken tortilla soup This dish is perfect for cozy evenings when you crave something hearty yet comforting. hearty turkey chili. For more inspiration, check out this autumn squash soup recipe recipe.
Picture this: a chilly evening, friends gathered around the table, laughter echoing as bowls of Italian Meatball Soup steam up in front of you. As the first spoonful lands on your tongue, you’re transported to an Italian trattoria, where every bite tells a story. crockpot ravioli casserole Whether it’s game night or just a random Tuesday, this soup brings joy and warmth to any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Italian Meatball Soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- The flavor profile bursts with savory goodness from fresh herbs and spices
- Its vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas elevate any meal
- Perfect for serving up at family gatherings or cozy nights in
Everyone raved about my Italian Meatball Soup during last year’s family reunion; it was the hit of the dinner!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Use 80/20 ground beef for a juicy meatball that holds its shape well during cooking.
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Breadcrumbs: Plain or Italian-style breadcrumbs work perfectly to bind the meatballs and add texture.
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Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley brightens up the flavors and adds a pop of color to the soup.
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Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives the soup its aromatic foundation; avoid pre-minced for optimal flavor.
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Canned Tomatoes: Opt for whole peeled tomatoes; they provide a richer taste when crushed by hand.
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Chicken Broth: A good quality broth enhances the overall flavor of the soup base.
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Carrots and Celery: These veggies add sweetness and crunch; chop them finely for even cooking.
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Italian Seasoning: A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme gives the soup that classic Italian flair.
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese not only adds flavor but makes every bowl feel gourmet.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this Instant Pot Bolognese recipe recipe.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Gather all your ingredients and chop vegetables so everything is ready to go in one smooth flow. It saves time and makes cooking more enjoyable.
Mix Meatball Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Use your hands for mixing; it’s messy but satisfying!
Shape Your Meatballs: Roll the mixture into small balls about 1 inch in diameter; don’t stress if they aren’t perfect! Place them on a plate while you prepare the soup.
Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced carrots and celery. Sauté until they soften and release their sweet aroma—about 5 minutes.
Add Tomatoes & Broth: Pour in canned tomatoes (crush them as you go) along with chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally.
Cook Meatballs in Soup: Gently drop meatballs into the bubbling soup. Cover and let simmer for 25-30 minutes until cooked through—your kitchen will smell divine!
Serve hot with freshly grated Parmesan cheese sprinkled on top, offering each bowl an irresistible finish.
Now you’ve got yourself an Italian Meatball Soup that’s sure to steal hearts (and stomachs)! Enjoy every spoonful while reminiscing about those cozy evenings spent with loved ones around the table. Buon appetito!
You Must Know
- This Italian Meatball Soup is warm and comforting, perfect for chilly evenings
- The rich aroma of herbs and spices will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist a bowl
- Plus, it’s a great way to use leftovers or pantry staples!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
First, brown the meatballs in a pan to lock in flavor. While they cook, sauté onions and garlic for aromatic goodness. Once both are ready, combine everything in broth and let it simmer together for maximum flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Add veggies like spinach or zucchini for an extra nutrient punch. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top can elevate the dish!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to maintain its delicious consistency.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For juicy meatballs, mix the meat gently; overworking can make them tough
- Always taste your broth before serving; seasoning can make all the difference
- Letting the soup sit enhances flavors as they meld beautifully over time
Sharing this recipe with friends at dinner turned into an unforgettable night filled with laughter and second helpings. Their smiles made all my efforts worth it!
FAQ
What can I use instead of meatballs?
You can substitute with diced chicken or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
How do I ensure my meatballs stay tender?
Use breadcrumbs and soak them in milk before mixing with meat to keep them moist.
Can I freeze Italian Meatball Soup?
Yes, freeze it in portions for easy meals later; just thaw and reheat when needed!
Italian Meatball Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Italian Meatball Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings and gatherings with loved ones. This hearty soup combines tender meatballs with a rich tomato broth, fragrant herbs, and vibrant vegetables. With each spoonful, you’ll be transported to an Italian trattoria, savoring the delicious flavors that warm your soul.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 28 oz canned whole peeled tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients: Chop vegetables and gather all ingredients.
- Mix meatball ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape meatballs: Roll the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter) and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté diced carrots and celery until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Add tomatoes & broth: Pour in canned tomatoes (crushing them as you go) along with chicken broth; bring to a gentle boil.
- Cook meatballs: Gently drop meatballs into the bubbling soup. Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes until cooked through.
- Serve hot with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
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