Meatball Soup
This hearty, easy meatball soup combines Italian-style meatballs, chopped veggies and pasta, all simmered in a rich tomato broth. Add a side of your favorite salad, and you've got dinner!
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lblean ground beef
chicken, or turkey
- 1egg
lightly whisked
- ½ cfreshly grated parmesan
plus more for serving
- ⅓ cunseasoned bread crumbs
- 1 tbspdried oregano
divided
- 1 tspsweet paprika
divided
- 1 cchopped parsley leaves
divided
- 3garlic cloves
), minced (divided
- extra virgin olive oil
- kosher salt
- black pepper
- 1 smallonion
chopped
- 2carrots
chopped
- 2celery stalks
chopped
- 1 smallgreen bell pepper
chopped
- 5 cbeef
chicken or vegetable broth
- 1can peeled tomatoes with juices
- ¾ csmall pasta like ditalini or small shells
uncooked
- red pepper flakes)
for serving (optional
Directions
- 1
Make the meatball mixture. In a large mixing bowl, add the beef, egg, parmesan, bread crumbs, 2 teaspoons oregano, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 cup parsley, and half of the garlic. Drizzle with a little olive oil and season with a good pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
- 2
Roll the meatballs. Form the mixture into meatballs–I like about 1 1/2 tablespoon each. Arrange on a large, lightly oiled sheet pan and broil for 5 to 8 minutes until browned (they will cook some more in the soup).
- 3
Soften the vegetables. In a large pot over medium-high, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Add the onion, carrot, celery, bell pepper, and remaining garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes.
- 4
Simmer. Add the broth, tomatoes, remaining 1 teaspoon of oregano, and 1/2 teaspoon paprika. Season to taste with salt and pepper, then cook over medium/medium-high heat until thickened, about 10 minutes.
- 5
Finish the meatballs. Add the meatballs and pasta. Cook until the pasta is tender and the meatballs are cooked through, about 10 minutes.
- 6
Finish and serve. Remove the soup from the heat and stir in the remaining 1/2 cup of parsley. Transfer to serving bowls and sprinkle with a bit more grated Parmesan cheese. If you like heat, finish with a sprinkle of crushed pepper flakes. Enjoy!
About this Recipe
Hearty Italian Meatball Soup: Your New Favorite Comfort Meal
When the craving for a truly satisfying and flavorful meal hits, look no further than this incredible Meatball Soup. Combining tender, Italian-style meatballs with a rich tomato broth, a medley of vibrant vegetables, and small pasta, this recipe is a complete meal in a bowl that's both comforting and incredibly easy to make. It's the perfect dish for a cozy evening, and a surefire hit with the whole family.
What makes this Italian Meatball Soup stand out? It all starts with the homemade meatballs! Seasoned with Parmesan, oregano, and fresh parsley, these meatballs are packed with authentic Italian flavor and perfectly complement the robust tomato broth. As they simmer alongside chopped onions, carrots, celery, and green bell pepper, their flavors meld beautifully, creating an aromatic and deeply satisfying soup base. Finally, a touch of ditalini or small shells makes it extra hearty, transforming a simple soup into a substantial and delicious dinner.
Tips for the Perfect Meatball Soup
- Meatball Variations: Feel free to use lean ground beef, chicken, or turkey for your meatballs. Whichever you choose, ensure it's well-seasoned for maximum flavor.
- Pasta Perfection: Small pasta shapes like ditalini, orzo, or small shells work wonderfully here, soaking up the delicious broth without becoming overwhelming.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your warm bowl of Meatball Soup with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese, a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick, and a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad to complete the meal. It’s an easy way to elevate your weeknight dinner!
This delightful Meatball Soup is designed for maximum flavor with minimal fuss, proving that a truly delicious meal doesn't have to be complicated. Enjoy the warmth and rich taste of this hearty Italian classic!