A vibrant bowl of Italian meatball soup featuring plump meatballs nestled among tender vegetables and herbs in a rich tomato broth, garnished with fresh parsley, served on a rustic wooden table.

Italian Meatball Soup Cozy Dinner

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© Original recipe by Flavor & Folklore ©

Italian Meatball Soup Cozy Dinner 🍝🍲✨

1. Introduction

Welcome to the ultimate guide for making Italian meatball soup, a comforting and hearty pasta soup that brings warmth and flavor to any dinner table. This comforting soup combines juicy homemade meatballs, tender vegetables, and flavorful broth, creating a dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a satisfying meal. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this hearty pasta soup will quickly become a favorite. Let’s dive into how to prepare this delicious Italian meatball soup.

2. Ingredients for Italian Meatball Soup

  • 1 pound ground beef or turkey
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, sliced
  • 2 stalks celery, sliced
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 6 cups chicken or beef broth
  • 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or orzo)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

3. How to Make Italian Meatball Soup

Preparation of Meatballs

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes until browned and cooked through.

Sautéing Vegetables

While the meatballs are baking, heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, sliced carrots, and sliced celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender and fragrant.

Cooking the Soup

Add the diced tomatoes and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes to develop flavors. Carefully add the baked meatballs to the soup and simmer for an additional 10 minutes. Finally, stir in the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.

Final Touches

Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Italian Meatball Soup

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to restore consistency.

5. Serving Suggestions & Variations

This comforting soup pairs beautifully with crusty Italian bread or a simple side salad. For an extra touch of flavor, sprinkle with additional Parmesan or add a splash of olive oil before serving. You can also turn this into a hearty pasta soup by adding your favorite pasta varieties or incorporating spinach or kale for added greens. For a low-carb version, substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use store-bought meatballs?

Yes, you can substitute homemade meatballs with store-bought ones. Just add them in toward the end and simmer until heated through.

What are some suitable substitutions for pasta in this recipe?

If you prefer a low-carb or gluten-free option, replace the pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. These alternatives also add extra nutrients to the dish.

How long does it take to prepare this Italian meatball soup?

Preparation time, including baking meatballs and cooking, is approximately 45-50 minutes. The cooking process itself takes about 35 minutes.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This hearty pasta soup generally tastes even better the next day. Prepare and store as mentioned, then reheat for a quick comforting dinner.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

8. Related Recipes You Might Love

9. Conclusion

Enjoying a warm bowl of Italian meatball soup is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket filled with rich flavors and comforting textures. This hearty pasta soup is not only easy to make but also versatile enough to adapt to your preferences. Whether you serve it on weeknights or as a special weekend dinner, it’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and indulge in this delicious, soul-warming comforting soup.

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