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Italian Meatball Soup

Italian Meatball Soup
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Italian Meatball Soup is a hearty and comforting dish featuring tender meatballs simmered in a savory broth loaded with fresh vegetables, herbs, and your choice of pasta or rice. Perfect for cozy nights or family meals, this classic Italian recipe delivers rich flavors and satisfying textures in every spoonful.

Ingredients

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Meatballs

  • 1 lb ground meat (beef, pork, or a combination)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed)
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for browning)

Soup Base

  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups chicken or beef broth
  • 1 cup crushed tomatoes or 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1/2 to 1 cup small pasta (acini di pepe, orzo, ditalini) or rice
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes & Variations

  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese or dairy-free alternative
  • Extra virgin olive oil drizzle
  • Red pepper flakes or hot sauce (for spicy version)
  • Spinach, zucchini, or kale (for extra veggies)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined to keep the meatballs tender. Shape the mixture into small balls about the size of a walnut.
  2. Brown the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides but not fully cooked through. Remove the meatballs and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  4. Build the Broth: Add minced garlic and cook for one more minute. Then pour in the broth and crushed tomatoes or tomato paste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  5. Simmer the Soup: Return the browned meatballs to the pot. Let everything simmer for 20-25 minutes to cook the meatballs through and deepen the flavors.
  6. Add Pasta or Rice: Stir in your chosen small pasta or rice and cook until tender, about 10 minutes more. This adds body and comfort to the soup.
  7. Final Seasoning: Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, and optionally fresh herbs like parsley or basil. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley to brighten the flavor and add authentic Italian flair.
  • Do not overmix the meatball mixture to keep meatballs tender, not tough.
  • Brown meatballs gently; cooking fully happens during simmering in broth.
  • Add pasta towards the end of cooking to prevent mushiness if you have leftovers.
  • Skim excess fat or foam from broth for a cleaner soup.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian meatball soup, comfort food, hearty soup, Italian soup, meatballs, pasta soup, gluten-free soup

Find it online: https://homemademealz.com/italian-meatball-soup/