Italian Meatball Soup is a comforting, hearty dish packed with rich flavors. This classic soup features tender, juicy meatballs simmered in a savory tomato broth with vegetables, herbs, and sometimes pasta or rice.
A perfect blend of Italian seasonings, garlic, and Parmesan enhances its depth of flavor. Ideal for chilly days, this dish warms both the body and soul. It’s a family-friendly meal that’s easy to prepare and pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Whether for a cozy dinner or meal prep, Italian Meatball Soup is a satisfying and nourishing choice for any occasion.
ITALIAN MEATBALL SOUP
Description
Italian Meatball Soup is a hearty, comforting dish featuring tender, seasoned meatballs simmered in a rich tomato broth with vegetables and pasta.
This flavorful soup combines the warmth of Italian herbs like basil, oregano, and garlic, creating a delicious, homey meal perfect for any season.
Often served with crusty bread or grated Parmesan, it’s a family favorite that’s both nourishing and satisfying.
The slow-simmering process enhances the depth of flavor, making each spoonful a perfect blend of meaty goodness and savory broth.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
Instructions
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Prepare the Meatballs:
In a bowl, mix all meatball ingredients. Roll into small (¾-inch) balls and set aside.
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Sauté Vegetables:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
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Simmer the Soup:
Add diced tomatoes, broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
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Cook the Meatballs:
Gently drop the meatballs into the soup. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until fully cooked.
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Add Pasta & Greens:
Stir in pasta and cook for 7-10 minutes. Add spinach and cook for 2 minutes. Adjust seasoning.
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Serve:
Ladle into bowls, top with Parmesan and parsley. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 450kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 20g31%
- Saturated Fat 8g40%
- Sodium 800mg34%
- Total Carbohydrate 35g12%
- Dietary Fiber 6g24%
- Sugars 8g
- Protein 30g60%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Italian Meatball Soup – Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Bowl
Italian Meatball Soup is a warm, comforting dish featuring tender meatballs, flavorful broth, and fresh vegetables. Here are some expert tips and tricks to make it even better:
1. Perfecting the Meatballs
- Use a mix of meats – A combination of beef and pork (or even turkey for a leaner option) adds great flavor.
- Add breadcrumbs & cheese – Italian breadcrumbs and Parmesan help keep the meatballs moist.
- Season well – Garlic, oregano, basil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes enhance the taste.
- Chill before cooking – Refrigerate the shaped meatballs for at least 15 minutes to help them hold their shape in the soup.
- Brown for extra flavor – While you can drop raw meatballs into the broth, browning them first in a pan adds a richer taste.
2. Enhancing the Broth
- Use quality stock – Homemade or low-sodium chicken/beef broth makes a huge difference.
- Add depth – A splash of white wine or a Parmesan rind while simmering boosts umami flavor.
- Balance acidity – A small amount of tomato paste or crushed tomatoes adds a tangy richness.
- Simmer gently – A slow simmer helps infuse flavors without breaking the meatballs.
3. Choosing the Right Vegetables
- Classic choices – Carrots, celery, onions, and spinach/kale work beautifully.
- Don't overcook greens – Stir in spinach or kale at the end to keep them vibrant.
- Add zucchini or mushrooms – These add texture and soak up the broth’s flavor.
4. Serving & Garnishing Tricks
- Serve with pasta or rice – Small pasta (orzo, ditalini) or rice makes the soup more filling.
- Top with fresh herbs – Basil or parsley brightens up the dish.
- Grate fresh Parmesan – A sprinkle of cheese enhances the richness.
- Serve with crusty bread – A slice of warm Italian bread is perfect for soaking up the broth.
5. Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Make meatballs in advance – Freeze uncooked meatballs for quick prep later.
- Reheat gently – Avoid boiling the soup when reheating to prevent overcooking the meatballs.
- Store separately – If using pasta, keep it separate from the broth to prevent sogginess.
Servings
- Yields: 4-6 servings
- Great for meal prep – Flavors develop even more the next day!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key ingredients in Italian Meatball Soup?
Italian Meatball Soup consists of tender, flavorful meatballs simmered in a rich tomato-based broth with vegetables and pasta. The key ingredients typically include:
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Meatballs: Ground beef, pork, or a mix, seasoned with garlic, herbs, and Parmesan.
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Broth: Chicken or beef broth with crushed tomatoes for a hearty base.
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Vegetables: Carrots, celery, onions, and sometimes spinach or kale.
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Pasta: Small pasta like orzo or ditalini for added texture.
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Seasonings: Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme), garlic, and red pepper flakes for heat.
Can I make this soup ahead of time or freeze it?
Yes! Italian Meatball Soup is a great make-ahead meal. To prepare in advance:
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Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freezing: Freeze the soup (without pasta) for up to 3 months. If adding pasta, cook it separately and mix in when reheating to avoid mushiness.
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Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
How can I make this soup healthier?
For a lighter version:
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Use lean meats: Swap ground beef/pork for ground turkey or chicken.
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Reduce sodium: Use low-sodium broth and limit added salt.
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Skip pasta: Substitute with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
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Boost veggies: Add more spinach, kale, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
