italian meatball soup recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best italian meatball soup recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my family’s favorite Italian meatball soup recipe. This hearty and comforting soup has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in yours too.

The dish originated in Italy, where it’s known as ‘zuppa di polpettine,’ and is typically made with meatballs, vegetables, and a rich broth. But what I love about this recipe is how easy it is to customize to your taste preferences.

My kids love it when I add in some crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful broth, while I appreciate the added nutrition of using lean ground turkey instead of beef. The key to making a great meatball soup is to use high-quality ingredients and to cook the meatballs slowly over low heat, so they absorb all the flavors of the broth without becoming tough or dry.

This technique also allows for a rich and intense flavor that will leave everyone at the table wanting more.

Italian Meatball Soup

Italian Meatball Soup

4.9 from 1193 votes

A hearty and comforting soup featuring flavorful meatballs in a rich tomato broth with vegetables. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr 5 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 lb ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Soup

2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
4 cups beef broth
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1 bay leaf
salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups spinach, chopped

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.
2Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
4Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
6Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.
7In the same skillet, add diced onion, carrots, and celery.
8Cook over medium heat until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
9Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
10Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, oregano, basil, and bay leaf to the skillet.
11Stir well to combine.
12Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
13Add salt and pepper to taste.
14Add the cooked meatballs and chopped spinach to the soup.
15Simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the flavors are well combined.
16Remove the bay leaf before serving.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Skillet
Large pot
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 25g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 100mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 20g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 7g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

Tips: You can add additional vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to make the soup even more hearty.

Watch Video Of How Italian Meatball Soup Works

This Italian meatball soup recipe has been a hit with my family every time we make it. It’s perfect for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a chilly evening or a hearty option for a family gathering.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to customize to your taste preferences and dietary needs.

With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household too.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Meatball Soup

Q: What type of meat is best for making meatballs?

In this recipe, we use lean ground turkey as our preferred choice for making meatballs. However, you can also use beef, pork, or a combination of meats if you prefer.

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it until ready to serve.

Q: Do I need any special equipment to make this soup?

No special equipment is required beyond a large pot or Dutch oven for cooking the soup.

Q: How do I store leftover soup?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I add other vegetables besides onions and carrots?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as celery, potatoes, or zucchini to make the soup more nutritious and colorful.

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