Name: Comforting Italian Meatball Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 cup bread crumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 large egg; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Fresh basil for garnish

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Comforting Italian Meatball Soup 🥣🍝✨

1. Introduction

Welcome to the ultimate guide on making a bowl of Italian meatball soup, a hearty comfort food that combines savory meatballs, rich broth, and vibrant vegetables. This meatball soup recipe embodies the warm, satisfying flavors of traditional Italian cuisine, making it perfect for chilly days or when you crave a nourishing meal. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and easy to customize with your favorite ingredients.

2. Ingredients for Italian Meatball Soup

1 pound ground beef or turkey
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup cooked pasta (small shapes like ditalini or pastina)
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Italian Meatball Soup

Preparing the Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well incorporated. Form into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and set aside.

Cooking the Meatballs

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Making the Soup Base

In the same pot, add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes. Add diced tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.

Simmering the Soup

Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Return the meatballs to the pot, reduce heat, and let simmer for 20-25 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through and flavors meld together.

Adding Pasta and Finishing Touches

Stir in cooked pasta and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley before serving.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Meatball Soup

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months for longer storage. To reheat, simmer gently on the stovetop until hot, and add a splash of broth if needed.

5. Serving Recommendations for Hearty Italian Soup

This Italian meatball soup pairs beautifully with crusty Italian bread or a simple side salad. For a complete meal, serve with a glass of red wine or your favorite beverage. The soup is also excellent topped with grated Parmesan or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.

6. Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Meatball Soup

Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken makes a delicious, leaner version of this meatball soup recipe. Adjust cooking times if necessary to ensure fully cooked meatballs.

How can I make this soup gluten-free?

Simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. The rest of the ingredients remain mostly unchanged.

**How long does it take to prepare this Italian soup from start to finish?**

The entire process takes approximately 45 minutes, making it perfect for a quick, satisfying meal after a busy day.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Investing in the right kitchen tools can significantly improve your cooking experience. The Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer makes crisping or reheating leftovers effortless, while the T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set ensures even cooking and easy cleanup. For pasta lovers, the Philips 7000 Series Pasta Maker can help you customize your pasta for the soup, adding an authentic touch. Consider adding a quality knife set or a large stockpot from our recommended tools to streamline your cooking process.

8. Variations and Tips for the Best Italian Meatball Soup

Use a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor.
Add chopped spinach or kale for more greens.
Use homemade or store-bought cooked pasta for convenience.
Adjust the spiciness by adding red pepper flakes.

9. Conclusion

This Italian meatball soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that captures the essence of traditional Italian cooking. Its hearty nature and customizable ingredients make it a perfect choice for family dinners, meal prep, or a cozy night in. With simple steps and easily accessible ingredients, you can create a delicious bowl of hearty comfort food that everyone will love. Try this recipe today and enjoy the warm embrace of homemade Italian soup!

Comforting Italian Meatball Soup