Description
Creamy Italian Meatball Soup is a comforting and hearty dish featuring savory meatballs, tender pasta, and a creamy broth with Italian flavors. Perfect for a cozy night in!
Ingredients
- For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 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)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- For the Soup:
- 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
- Extra Parmesan cheese, Fresh basil or parsley, Crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
1. 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. 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. In the same pot, add onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté until softened (3-4 minutes).
4. 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. Stir in the pasta and simmer for 8-10 minutes until tender.
6. Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Let it heat through for 2-3 minutes.
7. Stir in chopped spinach or basil until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs.
Notes
You can customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables like carrots or zucchini.
If you prefer a thinner soup, add more broth or water to adjust the consistency.
This soup reheats well, making it a great option for leftovers.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 85mg