Meatball Soup

This Meatball Soup recipe is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this creamy and flavorful soup will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. With juicy meatballs and tender pasta in a rich tomato broth, it is a delightful twist on traditional spaghetti night that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just one pot, making cleanup a breeze.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of herbs, garlic, and cream creates a rich taste that enhances the meatballs and pasta.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use homemade or frozen meatballs to suit your schedule; this soup can adapt to what you have on hand.
• Comforting Meal: Perfect for chilly evenings, this soup offers warmth and comfort in every spoonful.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and carbs, it makes for a complete meal that will keep you satisfied.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Meatball Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These tools make the cooking process smoother and help ensure everything turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: A spacious pot allows all ingredients to be combined easily without overflowing.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe and stable surface for chopping vegetables and meat.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise cuts, making prep time quicker.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

This creamy Italian meatball soup recipe comes together in one pot and is loaded with juicy meatballs and al dente pasta nestled in an herb-filled creamy tomato broth. It’s everything you love about Sunday night spaghetti dinner in a warm, comforting bowl of soup!

Ingredients:
– 1 recipe of my homemade meatballs (or an 18-20 oz. bag of frozen meatballs, thawed)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 yellow onion, diced
– 6 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 32 oz. chicken broth
– 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes
– 8 oz. (or about 2 1/2 cups) uncooked rotini pasta
– 2 cups baby spinach
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Kosher salt
– fresh cracked pepper
– shaved Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley for garnish

How to Make Meatball Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. Make my easy homemade Italian meatballs recipe or use frozen meatballs that have been thawed overnight in the fridge or cooked according to package directions.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in the pot over medium heat.
2. Add diced yellow onion along with a couple large pinches of salt and pepper.
3. Cook, stirring occasionally for about 6-8 minutes until they start to brown slightly.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasonings

1. Add 6 cloves minced garlic, 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning, 2 tablespoons tomato paste, and more salt and pepper.
2. Cook while stirring frequently for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

1. Pour in a few splashes of broth to clean the bottom of the pot.
2. Scrape up any browned bits for added flavor.

Step 5: Combine Remaining Ingredients

1. Stir in the remaining chicken broth (32 oz.), crushed tomatoes (28 oz.), uncooked rotini pasta (8 oz.), and cooked meatballs.
2. Add more salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Simmer the Soup

1. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 12-15 minutes until pasta is cooked al dente.

Step 7: Finish with Spinach and Cream

1. Stir in baby spinach (2 cups) until wilted.
2. Add heavy cream (1/2 cup) until warmed through.

Step 8: Season and Serve

1. Taste for seasoning adjustments with salt and pepper.
2. Garnish each bowl with shaved Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley before serving!

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How to Serve Meatball Soup

Serving meatball soup is all about enhancing its rich flavors while providing comforting accompaniments. Here are some delightful ways to serve this creamy dish.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve slices of toasted baguette or ciabatta on the side for dipping into the broth, soaking up every bit of flavor.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor that complements the soup.

With a Side Salad

• Pair with a light green salad dressed in vinaigrette to balance the richness of the meatball soup.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun presentation, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This makes for an edible serving dish that your guests will love!

Accompanied by Cheese

• Offer a platter of assorted cheeses like mozzarella or Parmesan for guests to sprinkle over their bowls, adding creaminess and depth.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Serve alongside grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a healthy touch that complements the hearty soup.

How to Perfect Meatball Soup

To achieve the best results with your meatball soup, consider these essential tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality tomatoes enhance the overall flavor profile, making your soup taste homemade and delicious.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: To prevent mushy pasta, cook it until just tender before adding it to the soup. It will absorb flavors without losing its texture.
• Season Gradually: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper throughout cooking to ensure balanced seasoning in every spoonful.
• Incorporate Varieties of Meat: For extra flavor, consider mixing beef with pork or turkey in your meatballs, giving them a unique twist.
• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer helps meld all the flavors together beautifully, creating a more cohesive dish.
• Add Dairy Last: Stir in heavy cream near the end of cooking for a luscious finish without curdling it during long cooking times.

Best Side Dishes for Meatball Soup

Pairing side dishes with your meatball soup can elevate your meal experience. Here’s a list of perfect accompaniments:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and tanginess that complements the creamy nature of meatball soup.
3. Antipasto Platter: Include olives, cured meats, and cheeses for a variety of textures that pair well with Italian flavors.
4. Stuffed Mushrooms: Baked stuffed mushrooms offer an earthy contrast and are easy to enjoy as finger food.
5. Polenta Fries: Crispy polenta fries add a unique twist and are fantastic for dipping into the soup.
6. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze make for refreshing bites alongside warm soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Meatball Soup can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to avoid for the best results.

• Using dry meatballs: Ensure your meatballs are juicy and flavorful. If using frozen ones, thaw them properly and consider seasoning them for extra flavor.
• Overcooking the pasta: Keep an eye on the pasta while it cooks. Aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook in the soup even after being removed from heat.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Taste your soup before serving. You may need to add more salt or pepper based on your preference.
• Skipping the sautéing step: Sautéing the onions and garlic enhances their flavors. Don’t rush this step; take time to caramelize them for better depth in the broth.
• Not incorporating greens: Adding baby spinach not only boosts nutrition but also adds freshness. Don’t skip on this step; it makes a big difference!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Meatball Soup in airtight containers.
• It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Meatball Soup

• Freeze in portion-sized containers or freezer bags.
• It can be kept for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Meatball Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Meatball Soup that might help enhance your cooking experience.

What is Meatball Soup made of?

Meatball Soup is typically made with meatballs, pasta, vegetables like spinach, and a creamy tomato broth.

Can I make Meatball Soup ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare Meatball Soup ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer for later enjoyment.

How can I customize my Meatball Soup?

You can customize it by adding different vegetables like carrots or zucchini, or by using different types of pasta according to your preference.

What is the best way to serve Meatball Soup?

Serve Meatball Soup warm with a sprinkle of shaved Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for added flavor and presentation.

Final Thoughts

This Meatball Soup recipe is not just comforting but also versatile. You can easily adapt it to suit your taste by adding various vegetables or adjusting seasonings. Give it a try—you’ll love how cozy and satisfying each bowl is!