Creamy Italian Meatball Soup to Savor and Share

Introduction

When the weather turns crisp and cozy, there's nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of creamy meatball soup. This dish captures the essence of Italy in every spoonful, offering a rich, comforting meal that will warm your heart and home.

This creamy Italian meatball soup is not only easy to make, but it’s a delightful blend of flavors that come together to create a satisfying experience for the whole family. With juicy meatballs nestled in a luscious broth, each bite is a reminder of home-cooked goodness.

Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply enjoying a weeknight meal, this recipe strikes the perfect balance between hearty and heartwarming.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Directions & Preparation

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix until thoroughly combined.
2. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet.
3. In a large pot over medium heat, bring the chicken broth to a simmer. Carefully add the meatballs to the pot and let them cook for about 10 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, heavy cream, peas, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pot. Stir well to combine.
5. Let the soup simmer for an additional 15–20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the meatballs to cook through.
6. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if necessary.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

FAQs

What can I do if my soup is too thick?

If your soup turns out too thick, you can gradually add more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I substitute ground turkey for the beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be used in place of ground beef for a lighter version of this soup.

How can I make my meatballs more flavorful?

You can add more herbs and spices, such as onion powder or additional garlic, to enhance the flavor of the meatballs.

What if my meatballs start to break apart while cooking?

To prevent meatballs from breaking apart, ensure they are well-formed before adding them to the broth, and avoid stirring too aggressively.

Is there a vegetarian option for the meatballs?

You can substitute the meat in the meatballs with a mixture of cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, and grated vegetables for a vegetarian alternative.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Absolutely! Fresh herbs can add vibrant flavor. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as the dried ones called for.

Conclusion

This creamy Italian meatball soup offers a delicious and comforting meal, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re nestled on the couch watching a movie or serving dinner to friends, this soup is sure to impress.

Gather your loved ones, serve this soup warm, and enjoy the delightful flavors that will transport you to Italy with every bite.

Recipe Card

Notes

Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.

For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.

Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.