Creamy Italian Meatball Soup
Highlighted under: Soulful Supper Recipes
Indulge in a comforting bowl of Creamy Italian Meatball Soup, perfect for chilly evenings and family gatherings.
This Creamy Italian Meatball Soup is a delightful blend of rich flavors and hearty ingredients. The tender meatballs, creamy broth, and fresh herbs make it a family favorite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy broth that warms the soul
- Juicy meatballs packed with Italian herbs
- Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
The Comfort of Soup
Nothing beats the comfort of a warm bowl of soup, especially on a cold day. Creamy Italian Meatball Soup combines the heartiness of meatballs with a rich, velvety broth, creating a dish that is both satisfying and nourishing. This recipe is not only delicious but also an excellent way to gather your loved ones around the table, sharing laughter and stories over a comforting meal.
In addition to its comforting nature, this soup is incredibly versatile. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your family's preferences or dietary needs. Whether you prefer turkey meatballs, gluten-free breadcrumbs, or an extra dose of veggies, this recipe allows for plenty of customization. It's a meal that can adapt to any occasion, making it a staple in your cooking repertoire.
A Flavorful Experience
The flavor profile of Creamy Italian Meatball Soup is nothing short of exquisite. Infused with Italian herbs and spices, each spoonful bursts with savory goodness. The combination of garlic, parsley, and Italian seasoning elevates the dish, making it more than just a simple soup. The addition of grated Parmesan cheese in the meatballs not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful nuttiness that complements the creamy broth.
Moreover, the incorporation of fresh vegetables like carrots and celery adds a nice crunch and natural sweetness to the soup. This medley of flavors and textures creates a delightful eating experience that keeps you coming back for more. You can even add some spinach or kale if you want to incorporate more greens, making it a well-rounded meal.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Creamy Italian Meatball Soup is more than just a weeknight dinner; it's ideal for family gatherings, cozy get-togethers, or even holiday celebrations. The richness of the soup makes it a festive choice, while its ease of preparation ensures that you won't spend hours in the kitchen. Just prepare the meatballs, sauté your vegetables, and let everything simmer together for an effortless yet impressive dish.
Additionally, this soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, making it a great option for meal prep. Simply reheat when you're ready to serve, and you'll have a comforting meal in no time. By pairing it with crusty bread or a simple salad, you can create a complete dining experience that everyone will love.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Mix all ingredients thoroughly and form into small meatballs.
Instructions
Prepare the Meatballs
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and form into small meatballs.
Brown the Meatballs
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove meatballs and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
Add Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 10 minutes.
Add Cream and Meatballs
Stir in heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and the browned meatballs. Cook for an additional 10 minutes until heated through.
Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Enjoy your deliciously creamy soup!
Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers of this delicious Creamy Italian Meatball Soup, you're in luck! This soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To freeze, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion as it freezes. When you're ready to indulge, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as mentioned earlier.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Creamy Italian Meatball Soup experience, consider serving it with a side of warm, crusty bread. This adds a delightful texture and allows you to soak up every drop of the flavorful broth. You can also serve it with a fresh green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
For an extra touch, top your soup with additional grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil can also enhance the flavors beautifully, making your meal feel even more special.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef for the meatballs?
Yes, ground turkey can be used for a leaner option.
→ Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
You can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
→ How long can I store the leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
→ Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Creamy Italian Meatball Soup
Indulge in a comforting bowl of Creamy Italian Meatball Soup, perfect for chilly evenings and family gatherings.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Soulful Supper Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and form into small meatballs.
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove meatballs and set aside.
In the same pot, add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.
Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 10 minutes.
Stir in heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and the browned meatballs. Cook for an additional 10 minutes until heated through.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 25g