Description
Rich, comforting, and packed with bold Italian flavors, this Creamy Italian Meatball Soup combines tender meatballs, a creamy tomato-based broth, and hearty pasta for the perfect cozy meal. Each spoonful is warm, satisfying, and irresistibly delicious for soup lovers!
Ingredients
-
- For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
-
- For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups (1 liter) chicken or beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup small pasta (ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach or basil, chopped
- Optional Garnishes: Parmesan cheese, basil, parsley, red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix gently and form into 1-inch meatballs.
- Cook the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown meatballs for 2–3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, cook onion, celery, and garlic for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Build the Soup Base: Add diced tomatoes and broth. Stir well. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Return meatballs and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Cook the Pasta: Add pasta and simmer 8–10 minutes until tender.
- Make It Creamy: Reduce heat, stir in heavy cream and Parmesan. Heat for 2–3 minutes.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in spinach or basil until wilted. Adjust seasoning and serve with Parmesan and herbs.
Notes
- Use half beef and half pork for extra juicy meatballs.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs if needed.
- Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup, Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian