Meatball Soup

This Meatball Soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends, this creamy Italian soup has all the flavors of your favorite spaghetti dinner packed in one bowl. The juicy meatballs, al dente pasta, and rich tomato broth make it a standout recipe that will satisfy everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This meatball soup can be made in one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Flavorful: Packed with herbs and spices, every spoonful delivers an explosion of flavor.
• Family-Friendly: A delightful way to get everyone to enjoy their veggies with the addition of baby spinach.
• Versatile: Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of pasta.
• Comforting and Hearty: The creamy broth combined with meatballs and pasta makes it perfect for chilly evenings.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making this delicious meatball soup, gather some essential tools. Having the right equipment can make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking soups as they distribute heat evenly and hold enough volume for all ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring without scratching the pot’s surface, ensuring all flavors blend well.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements help maintain the balance of flavors in your meatball soup.

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!

For the Meatballs

• 1 recipe of homemade meatballs (or an 18-20 oz. bag of frozen meatballs, thawed)

For the Soup Base

• 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

For the Pasta and Greens

• 8 oz. (or about 2 1/2 cups) uncooked rotini pasta
• 2 cups baby spinach

For Creaminess and Seasoning

• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Kosher salt
• Fresh cracked pepper

For Garnish

• Shaved Parmesan
• Freshly chopped parsley

How to Make Meatball Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. Make 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 Aromatics

1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in the pot over medium heat.
2. Add diced yellow onion along with a couple large pinches of salt and pepper.
3. Cook, stirring occasionally for about 6-8 minutes until caramelized.

Step 3: Add Flavorful Ingredients

1. Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, tomato paste, along with a couple large pinches of salt and pepper.
2. Cook while stirring frequently for 1 minute to release aromas.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

1. Add a few splashes of chicken broth until you can easily clean the bottom of the pot.
2. Scrape up any delicious bits stuck to enhance flavor.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

1. Stir in remaining chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, uncooked pasta, and cooked meatballs.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Simmer Until Done

1. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer for about 12-15 minutes until pasta is al dente.

Step 7: Add Spinach and Cream

1. Stir in baby spinach and heavy cream until spinach wilts.
2. Warm through before serving.

Step 8: Serve

1. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
2. Garnish with shaved Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley before serving.

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How to Serve Meatball Soup

Serving meatball soup is all about enhancing its rich flavors and comforting textures. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve your meatball soup with slices of crusty bread for dipping. The bread soaks up the delicious broth, making every bite satisfying.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped parsley or basil. This adds a pop of color and a burst of herbaceous flavor that brightens the dish.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Pair the soup with a light green salad. A simple mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette complements the hearty soup without overpowering it.

Adding Extra Cheese

• Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top before serving. The melted cheese adds creaminess and enhances the savory notes of the soup.

With Garlic Toast

• Serve alongside garlic toast for an extra crunch. The garlic butter flavor pairs perfectly with the creamy broth.

How to Perfect Meatball Soup

To make your meatball soup even better, consider these helpful tips for achieving optimal flavor and texture.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs, onions, and garlic will elevate the taste of your soup, providing vibrant flavors.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup as it cooks and adjust salt and pepper as needed to enhance the overall flavor profile.
• Cook pasta separately: For a firmer texture, cook pasta separately and add it to each bowl right before serving. This prevents it from becoming mushy.
• Let it sit: Allowing the soup to rest for a few minutes after cooking can help meld flavors together more effectively.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other spices like red pepper flakes or oregano for an extra kick or unique twist on flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Meatball Soup

Pairing side dishes with meatball soup can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up leftover broth.
2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
3. Caprese Salad
   Made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, this salad adds a light touch and vibrant colors to your meal.
4. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted veggies provide a nutritious side that complements the rich flavors of the soup.
5. Cheesy Biscuits
   Fluffy biscuits filled with cheese create an indulgent pairing that’s hard to resist.
6. Stuffed Peppers
   Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice and vegetables make for a hearty side dish that complements meatball soup well.
7. Antipasto Platter
   A mix of olives, cheeses, and marinated vegetables offers variety and can be enjoyed alongside the main dish.
8. Simple Rice Pilaf
   Fluffy rice pilaf is a subtle side that balances out the heartiness of meatball soup without overshadowing it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making meatball soup can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Meatball Prep: Always prepare your meatballs ahead of time. Using frozen meatballs can save time, but homemade ones offer better flavor and texture.
• Overcooking the Pasta: Don’t forget that pasta continues to cook in the soup. To avoid mushy noodles, cook them just until al dente before adding them to the soup.
• Using Low-Quality Broth: The broth is a key component of your soup. Choose a high-quality chicken broth for rich flavor that enhances every bite.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning at each step. A little extra salt and pepper can make a big difference in flavor.
• Skipping Final Touches: Garnishing your soup with fresh herbs and cheese adds not only color but also depth of flavor. Don’t skip this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• • Containers: Use glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids.

Freezing Meatball Soup

• • Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• • Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion.

Reheating Meatball Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and cover. Heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making meatball soup.

What is Meatball Soup?

Meatball soup is a comforting dish featuring juicy meatballs, pasta, and vegetables cooked in a flavorful broth. It’s perfect for any occasion!

Can I use turkey instead of beef for the meatballs?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative that works well while keeping the recipe leaner without sacrificing flavor.

How do I customize my Meatball Soup?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like carrots or zucchini. You can also use different pasta shapes based on personal preference.

Is Meatball Soup suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it a great option for preparing meals in advance.

Final Thoughts

This creamy Italian meatball soup recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different meats or vegetables according to your taste preferences. So why not give it a try? Your family will love this warm and comforting dish!