Description
Rich, comforting, and packed with bold Italian flavors, this Creamy Italian Meatball Soup combines tender meatballs, a creamy tomato-based broth, and hearty pasta for the perfect cozy meal. Every spoonful is filled with delicious flavors, making it a must-try for any soup lover!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups (1 liter) chicken or beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach or basil, chopped
Optional Garnishes:
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley
- Crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatballs
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and parsley.
- Mix gently until combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Roll the mixture into small 1-inch meatballs and set aside.
2. Cook the Meatballs
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat with olive oil.
- Sear the meatballs for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté until softened (3-4 minutes).
4. Build the Soup Base
- Add diced tomatoes and broth. Stir well.
- Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Return the meatballs to the pot and simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Cook the Pasta
- Stir in the pasta and simmer for 8-10 minutes until tender.
6. Make It Creamy
- Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
- Let it heat through for 2-3 minutes.
7. Finish and Serve
- Stir in chopped spinach or basil until wilted.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs.