Description
This Italian Meatball Soup is the ultimate comforting meal, featuring tender homemade meatballs, a rich tomato broth, and flavorful vegetables, all simmered together for a cozy and filling dish. Perfect for any day of the week, it’s a one-pot meal that’s quick, easy, and sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
1 lb ground beef
¼ cup breadcrumbs
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp chopped parsley
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Soup:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large carrot, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
4 cups beef or chicken broth
¾ cup small pasta (such as ditalini or orzo)
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)
Grated Parmesan, for serving (optional)
Instructions
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Make the Meatballs: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Gently mix and form small 1-inch meatballs. Set aside.
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Cook the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until softened.
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Simmer the Soup: Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
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Add the Meatballs: Carefully add the meatballs to the pot. Reduce heat to simmer and cook for 10–12 minutes, until meatballs are cooked through.
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Cook the Pasta: Add pasta to the soup and continue simmering for an additional 10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan if desired.
Notes
Meat Variations: Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a leaner version of the meatballs.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta to make this soup gluten-free.
Extra Veggies: Add zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers for more flavor and nutrition.
Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced chili for a spicy kick.
Vegetarian Option: Use lentils or plant-based protein for the meatballs and vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup, Comfort Food, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Calories: 380 kcal per serving
