Name: Cozy Italian Meatball Soup for Comforting Dinners
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 4 cups beef or vegetable broth; Fresh basil for garnish

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Cozy Italian Meatball Soup for Comforting Dinners 🥣🍝✨

1. Introduction

Nothing warms the soul quite like a bowl of Italian meatball soup. This comforting Italian soup combines tender meatballs, hearty vegetables, and flavorful broth to create a dish that is perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a comforting dinner. Whether you’re craving a classic meatball soup or exploring new variations, this recipe offers a delicious and satisfying experience that the whole family will enjoy. The richness of the homemade meatballs paired with the fresh vegetables makes for a hearty, nutritious meal that comes together effortlessly, especially if you make use of some handy kitchen tools. Dive into this step-by-step guide and turn your kitchen into an Italian trattoria!

2. Ingredients for this comforting Italian soup

1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage (for the meatballs)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
4 cups beef or vegetable broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup chopped carrots
1 cup chopped celery
1 cup chopped spinach or kale
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

3. How to make authentic Italian meatball soup

Step 1: Prepare the meatballs

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef or sausage, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, half of the minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Set aside.

Step 2: Brown the meatballs

In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until they are browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the meatballs and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté vegetables

In the same pot, add a little more olive oil if needed. Sauté the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and the remaining garlic until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Develop the broth and cook the meatballs

Add the diced tomatoes (with juice) and the broth to the pot. Bring to a boil. Carefully return the browned meatballs into the soup. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and meatballs to cook through.

Step 5: Add greens and season

Stir in the chopped spinach or kale and dried oregano. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until greens are wilted. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

4. Storage tips for leftovers

Let the soup cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, microwave or warm on the stovetop until steaming hot. The flavors tend to deepen over time, making leftovers even more delicious!

5. Serving suggestions and garnishes

Serve this Italian meatball soup hot, accompanied by crusty bread or garlic bread. For an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan or provolone cheese on top. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil and some fresh chopped parsley also enhance the dish’s flavor. For extra comfort, pair it with a glass of red wine or a refreshing water infused with lemon slices.

6. Tips to make this Italian soup even better

Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a brighter flavor.
For a low-carb version, swap out the breadcrumbs with almond flour or omit entirely.
To customize the spice level, add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

Make larger meatballs for a more hearty bite or mini ones for a lighter, more delicate experience.

7. Frequently Asked Questions about Italian meatball soup

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the meatballs for plant-based or veggie balls, and use vegetable broth. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

What are some good substitutions for the ingredients?

If you don’t have breadcrumbs, crushed crackers or oats work well. For the greens, kale can be replaced with spinach or Swiss chard. Bone broth adds richer flavor if available.

How long does it take to prepare this Italian soup?

The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 45-50 minutes, making it perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner.

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer — Make crispy meatballs or other sides to complement your soup with ease and speed.
T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — Perfect for browning meatballs and sautéing vegetables without sticking.

Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo — Adds versatility if you want to prepare additional proteins or veggies alongside your soup.

9. Conclusion

Enjoying a bowl of Italian meatball soup is like getting a warm hug from the inside out. It’s a classic dish packed with rich flavors, tender meatballs, and hearty vegetables that make for a wholesome dinner. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can recreate this comforting Italian soup in your own kitchen. Remember, making good use of essential kitchen tools can streamline your process and elevate your cooking experience. Whether for a cozy weeknight meal or a weekend gathering, this soup promises satisfaction in every spoonful. Buon appetito!