Italian Meatball Soup

Name: Italian Meatball Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped parsley; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 egg; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 cups beef broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups chopped kale or spinach; 1 cup diced carrots; 1 cup diced celery; 1 onion, chopped; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Warm, hearty, and bursting with flavor, this Italian Meatball Soup is a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-06T15:10:21.460Z

This Italian Meatball Soup combines the rich flavors of homemade meatballs with a savory broth and fresh vegetables. It's a family favorite that brings everyone together around the table.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and comforting, perfect for chilly nights
Rich, savory broth filled with flavor
Easy to make and perfect for meal prep
Customizable with your favorite vegetables

      

A Bowl of Comfort

There's nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to lift your spirits on a chilly day. This Italian Meatball Soup delivers a cozy, satisfying experience that can bring the whole family together. The rich flavors of the beef broth, combined with the savory meatballs, create a symphony of taste that warms you from the inside out.

Whether served as a main course or as a starter, this soup is sure to please. The combination of fresh vegetables and tender meatballs adds depth and texture, making each spoonful a delight. It's a dish that evokes feelings of home and family, reminding us of shared meals and laughter.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Italian Meatball Soup is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various occasions. It works wonderfully for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or even as a meal prep option for busy weekdays. The soup stores well in the refrigerator and can be reheated easily, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week.

Additionally, it’s a fantastic choice for gatherings or potlucks. Just double the recipe, and you’ll have enough to serve a crowd. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Customization and Variations

One of the best aspects of this soup is its flexibility. You can easily customize it to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms, to enhance the flavor profile and nutritional value.

For those looking for a lighter option, consider using ground turkey or chicken for the meatballs. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to create your unique twist on this classic dish. The possibilities are endless!

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

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

For the Soup

8 cups beef broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups chopped kale or spinach
1 cup diced carrots
1 cup diced celery
1 onion, chopped
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and mix until well combined.

Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into small meatballs.

Cook the Meatballs

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

Make the Soup

In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened. Add the broth, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Bring to a boil.

Combine and Simmer

Add the meatballs back to the soup and simmer for 20 minutes. Stir in the kale or spinach just before serving.

Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When freezing, consider storing the meatballs and soup separately to maintain their textures.

When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator if frozen. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Italian Meatball Soup experience, consider serving it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley on top. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil can enhance the flavors and add a touch of richness.

Pair the soup with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to create a balanced meal. For a comforting touch, you might even serve it with a side of Parmesan cheese for grating on top. This will add an extra layer of flavor that complements the hearty soup beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen meatballs?

Yes, you can use frozen meatballs to save time. Just add them directly to the soup during the simmering stage.

→ What vegetables can I add?

You can add any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.