Meatball Soup

There are few dishes as soul-soothing and universally loved as a warm bowl of Meatball Soup. This recipe combines tender, juicy meatballs simmered in a rich, savory broth with vegetables that melt into the soup, creating layers of comforting flavor. Whether you’re craving something cozy on a rainy day, looking for a hearty weeknight dinner, or hoping to create a nostalgic meal reminiscent of home and family gatherings, Meatball Soup checks every box.

The charm of this dish lies in its simplicity. The broth simmers gently, carrying with it the aroma of garlic, herbs, and vegetables, while the meatballs release their juices, enriching the soup naturally. Each spoonful offers warmth, nourishment, and a sense of calm—perfect for cold evenings, busy days, or whenever you need the culinary equivalent of a hug.

Why I Love This Recipe

I adore this Meatball Soup because it effortlessly balances heartiness and lightness. The meatballs are incredibly tender thanks to the panade (a milk-soaked breadcrumb mixture), and the broth soaks up all their flavors. Plus:

• It’s comforting yet wholesome—perfect for family dinners.
• It’s customizable—swap veggies, add pasta, make it spicy, or keep it light.
• It stores beautifully, making it great for meal prep.
• It feels like a dish made with love and care, without being complicated.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This soup is a must-try because:

• One pot, full meal: Protein, veggies, and broth—all in one bowl.
• Crowd-pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: Suitable for any season. Light enough for summer; hearty enough for winter.
• Budget-friendly: Uses simple ingredients yet tastes gourmet.
• Restaurant-quality flavor: All from your own kitchen.

Once you try it, you’ll want to make it over and over again.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Servings: 6 bowls
• Calories: ~320 calories per serving (may vary based on size of meatballs and vegetables used)
• Course: Soup / Main Course
• Cuisine: American-Italian Inspired

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• 500g ground beef (or mix beef + pork)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ small onion, grated
• 2 tbsp parsley, chopped
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried basil
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

For the Soup

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken or beef broth
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes (optional)
• 1 cup small pasta (optional: orzo, macaroni, ditalini)
• 1 cup spinach or kale
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley for garnish
• Grated Parmesan for serving

Quick Directions

1. Mix all meatball ingredients together and shape into small balls.
2. Sauté vegetables in olive oil.
3. Add broth and seasonings; bring to boil.
4. Drop in meatballs; simmer until cooked.
5. Add pasta (if using) and greens.
6. Garnish and serve hot.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Make the Meatball Mixture

1. In a bowl, combine breadcrumbs and milk. Let sit for 2 minutes to soften.
2. Add ground meat, egg, garlic, grated onion, parsley, oregano, basil, pepper, salt, and Parmesan.
3. Mix gently using your hands—just until combined.
4. Roll into small meatballs about 1 inch in size.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

5. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
6. Add onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
7. Add garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

8. Pour in broth and tomatoes (if using).
9. Add Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
10. Bring to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Cook the Meatballs

11. Carefully drop the meatballs into the boiling soup.
12. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes, until meatballs float and are cooked through.

Step 5: Add Add-Ins

13. If using pasta, add it now and cook until al dente.
14. Stir in spinach or kale until wilted.

Step 6: Finish & Serve

15. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes.
16. Taste and adjust seasonings.
17. Serve hot with Parmesan and parsley.

How to Serve This Recipe

• Ladle into deep bowls.
• Top with extra Parmesan.
• Serve with garlic bread, dinner rolls, or a fresh salad.
• A squeeze of lemon brightens the broth beautifully.
• For a heartier meal, serve with crusty toasted baguette slices.

Tips for the Best Meatball Soup

• Don’t overmix the meatball mixture—keeps them tender.
• Roll small meatballs for faster cooking and better flavor absorption.
• Add pasta separately if you plan to store leftovers (prevents sogginess).
• Add spinach at the very end for vibrant color.
• Use grated onion—not chopped—to ensure juicy meatballs.

Variations of Meatball Soup

1. Italian Wedding Soup Style

• Add tiny acini di pepe pasta
• Use mini meatballs
• Add escarole instead of spinach

2. Spicy Meatball Soup

• Add chili flakes to the broth
• Use spicy Italian sausage in the meat mixture

3. Mexican-Inspired Meatball Soup (Albondigas)

• Add rice to meatballs
• Add zucchini, corn, and potatoes
• Season with cumin and cilantro

4. Healthy Lean Version

• Use turkey or chicken mince
• Reduce pasta and add more vegetables

5. Creamy Meatball Soup

• Add ½ cup cream or evaporated milk
• Stir in at the end for a smooth, silky broth

Freezing & Storage

Refrigeration

• Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
• If soup contains pasta, store pasta separately for best texture.

Freezing

• Freeze WITHOUT pasta for up to 2–3 months.
• Freeze meatballs and soup base separately for even better results.
• Thaw overnight in fridge; reheat on stovetop.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Mixing bowls
• Baking tray or plate for rolling meatballs
• Ladle
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups & spoons

Conclusion

Meatball Soup is more than just a meal—it’s comfort, warmth, and nourishment in one delicious bowl. With its tender meatballs, aromatic broth, and mix of vegetables, this dish is perfect for cozy dinners, family gatherings, meal prep, or whenever you crave a wholesome, satisfying dish. It’s an easy, versatile, customizable recipe that always delivers rich flavor and heartwarming satisfaction.