Hearty Italian Meatball Soup with Fresh Herbs and Rich Broth 🍲🌿✨

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a deliciously satisfying and nourishing meal, look no further than this Italian Meatball Soup. This hearty soup combines juicy meatballs, fragrant herbs, and a rich, savory broth to create a comforting dish perfect for any day. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, this meatball soup recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It’s also a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of Italy from the comfort of your home. For more cozy soup ideas, check out our Creamy White Chicken Chili.

2. Ingredients for Delicious Italian Meatball Soup

• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or orzo)
• Fresh basil and additional parsley for garnish

3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Hearty Italian Meatball Soup

Forming the Meatballs

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

Cooking the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs and set aside.

Sautéing the Vegetables

In the same pot, add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Building the Soup Broth

Add the diced tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Incorporating the Meatballs and Pasta

Gently add the browned meatballs back into the soup. Stir in the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Garnishing and Serving

Finally, garnish with freshly chopped basil and additional parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread for a complete meal.

4. Tips for Perfect Italian Meatball Soup

Ensure not to overcrowd when browning the meatballs so they cook evenly. Use fresh herbs for the most vibrant flavor. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding spinach or kale for extra greens. For a more filling variation, incorporate cooked rice or beans.

5. Storage Tips for Leftover Soup

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. The pasta may soak up broth upon storage, so consider adding a splash of broth or water when reheating to restore its consistency.

6. Serving Suggestions for Your Hearty Italian Meatball Soup

Pair this comforting hearty soup with a side of crusty Italian bread or garlic bread. For those who love cheese, sprinkle extra Parmesan on top. A light green salad with vinaigrette also complements the warm, savory flavors of the soup.

7. Frequently Asked Questions about Italian Meatball Soup

Can I make this meatball soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute beef or turkey with plant-based alternatives like lentil or mushroom-based meatballs, and use vegetable broth. Check out our hearty lentil and potato soup for other vegetarian soup ideas.

How long does it take to prepare?

The entire process takes approximately 45-50 minutes, including shaping the meatballs, cooking, and simmering.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, but avoid freezing pasta as it may become mushy when reheated. Freeze the soup minus the pasta, then add cooked pasta when reheating for serving.

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer – Perfect for crispy meatballs and versatile cooking options to elevate your meals.
• T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – Makes browning those meatballs easy and cleanup a breeze.
• Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer – Great for quick, crispy additions or side dishes to accompany your soup.
• Philips Pasta Maker with 8 Shaping Discs – For making fresh homemade pasta to serve with the soup.

9. Conclusion

This Hearty Italian Meatball Soup offers a delightful combination of tender meatballs, flavorful herbs, and a comforting broth. It’s the perfect Italian soup for warming up on chilly days or feeding a hungry family. Easy to prepare and customizable to suit your taste, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your cooking repertoire. Enjoy the rich flavors of Italy from your own kitchen and savor every spoonful!

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