How to Make the Easy Meatball Soup

When the cold winds blow and the need for comfort rises, few dishes can match the warmth and hearty satisfaction of a steaming bowl of meatball soup. This rich and flavorful soup is a medley of juicy, Italian-style meatballs, aromatic vegetables, and tender pasta, all swimming in a luscious tomato-based broth. Whether you’re serving this to a family of picky eaters or a crowd of food enthusiasts, it’s guaranteed to become a winter favorite.

This recipe borrows inspiration from classic Italian wedding soup but adds unique twists that elevate the dish. By quickly broiling the meatballs, a caramelized crust forms while maintaining a juicy center. This extra step enhances the flavor and texture, making the soup irresistible.

Let’s dive into the details and discover how to make this wholesome and versatile dish!

Why You’ll Love This Meatball Soup Recipe

1. Comforting and Versatile: The tomato broth is rich yet light enough to enjoy all year round.
2. Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients to suit your pantry or dietary preferences.
3. Efficient Cooking: Broiling the meatballs saves time and adds flavor depth.
4. Family-Friendly: Perfect for children, teens, and adults alike.

Ingredients Breakdown and Substitutions

1. Ground Meat

Choose between lean ground beef, chicken, or turkey. Each option lends its unique flavor:

• Beef: Classic and rich.
• Turkey: Lighter with a slightly sweeter note.
• Chicken: Mild and tender.

2. Binding Ingredients

• Egg: Helps bind the meatball mixture.
• Breadcrumbs: Ensures the meatballs remain moist. Use Panko or gluten-free varieties as needed.

3. Flavor Enhancers

• Parmesan Cheese: Adds an umami kick. Substitute with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
• Herbs and Spices: Oregano, sweet paprika, fresh parsley, and red pepper flakes infuse the soup with aromatic depth.

4. Vegetables

Aromatic vegetables form the flavor base:

• Onion, Carrot, Celery, and Green Bell Pepper: Provide a balance of sweetness and earthiness.
• Garlic: Use liberally to enhance flavor.

5. Broth

• Chicken, beef, or vegetable broth all work well. Beef broth adds the richest flavor, while vegetable broth keeps it vegetarian-friendly.

6. Tomatoes

Use high-quality canned tomatoes, such as San Marzano, for the best results. They provide the perfect balance of acidity and sweetness.

7. Pasta

Small pasta shapes like ditalini or shells absorb the broth beautifully, adding a comforting texture.

Italian Meatball Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, whisked egg, grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, herbs, and garlic.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Mix gently to combine without overworking the mixture.
4. Shape into small meatballs, about 1 ½ tablespoons each.

Step 2: Broil the Meatballs

1. Arrange the meatballs on a lightly oiled baking sheet.
2. Broil for 5-8 minutes until golden brown. This step locks in the juices and adds a delightful crust.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, carrot, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté until softened.
3. Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Broth and Tomatoes

1. Pour in your chosen broth and canned tomatoes with their juices.
2. Season with oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Combine Meatballs and Pasta

1. Gently add the broiled meatballs to the soup.
2. Stir in uncooked pasta and simmer until the pasta is tender and the meatballs are fully cooked.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Finish the soup with chopped parsley for freshness.
2. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.
• Freezing: Exclude pasta before freezing. Store the soup in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this soup with:

• Crusty bread or garlic knots for dipping.
• A crisp green salad with vinaigrette.
• A glass of your favorite wine or sparkling water.

Quick Meatball Soup Recipe

This easy meatball soup combines Italian-style meatballs, chopped veggies and pasta, all simmered in a rich tomato broth. Add a side of your favorite salad, and you’ve got dinner

Duration

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ lbs ground beef, chicken, or turkey
• 1 egg, whisked
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• ⅓ cup breadcrumbs (unseasoned)
• 1 tbsp dried oregano, divided
• 1 tsp sweet paprika, divided
• 1 cup parsley, chopped (divided)
• 3-5 garlic cloves, minced (divided)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 small green bell pepper, chopped
• 5-6 cups broth (chicken, beef, or vegetable)
• 1 (28 oz) can peeled tomatoes
• ¾ cup small pasta (like ditalini or shells)
• Red pepper flakes for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare Meatballs: Mix ground meat, egg, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, 2 tsp oregano, ½ tsp paprika, half the parsley, and garlic in a bowl. Form into small meatballs.
2. Broil Meatballs: Arrange on an oiled baking sheet. Broil for 5-8 minutes until golden brown.
3. Cook Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a pot. Sauté onion, carrot, celery, bell pepper, and remaining garlic for 5 minutes.
4. Simmer Soup: Add broth, tomatoes, and remaining oregano and paprika. Cook for 10 minutes.
5. Combine and Serve: Add meatballs and pasta. Simmer until pasta is tender. Garnish with parsley, Parmesan, and red pepper flakes. Serve hot.

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