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Italian Meatball Soup: Comfort in a Bowl Recipe

Italian Meatball Soup: Comfort in a Bowl Recipe
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★★★★★

5.1 from 23 reviews

This Italian Meatball Soup is a hearty and comforting dish featuring tender homemade meatballs simmered in a flavorful tomato broth with fresh vegetables, pasta, and greens. Perfect for a cozy meal, this soup combines traditional Italian ingredients and aromas for a satisfying bowl of warmth.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Soup:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach (or kale)
  • 1 cup small pasta (ditalini or orzo)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough meatballs. Shape the mixture into meatballs approximately 1 inch in diameter for even cooking.
  2. Brown the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. This step adds flavor and helps seal in juices. Remove the browned meatballs and set aside on a plate.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables: Using the same pot, add chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Then stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma.
  4. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken or vegetable broth. Stir in dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes if you prefer a little heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer to blend the flavors.
  5. Cook the Meatballs: Return the browned meatballs to the pot. Let the soup simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are thoroughly cooked through and tender.
  6. Add Greens and Pasta: Stir in the fresh spinach or kale and the small pasta. Cook until the pasta is al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper seasoning as needed.
  7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot for a comforting meal.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground turkey for beef for a leaner meatball option.
  • Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta if you require a gluten-free meal.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit the meatballs and use vegetable broth, adding beans or lentils for protein instead.
  • If you like a spicier soup, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
  • Meatballs can be prepared ahead and refrigerated or frozen before cooking to save time.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian meatball soup, comfort food, tomato soup with meatballs, homemade meatballs, healthy soup recipe

Find it online: https://kitchenbyrita.com/italian-meatball-soup-comfort-in-a-bowl-recipe/