Creamy Italian Meatball Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with this comforting Creamy Italian Meatball Soup. Perfect for chilly evenings or a cozy family dinner.
This Creamy Italian Meatball Soup combines tender meatballs in a luscious broth, enriched with cream and Italian spices. A family favorite that warms the soul!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that satisfies every craving
- Homemade meatballs bursting with flavor
- Perfectly seasoned broth that brings all the ingredients together
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners
The Comfort of Homemade Soup
There's something inherently comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it's homemade. Creamy Italian Meatball Soup not only warms your body but also your soul. The combination of tender meatballs, fresh vegetables, and a rich, creamy broth creates a symphony of flavors that will remind you of family gatherings and cozy dinners at home.
In addition to its comforting nature, this soup is versatile enough to suit any occasion. Whether you're enjoying a quiet evening by the fireplace or hosting a family gathering, this dish is sure to impress. The aroma that fills your kitchen while cooking will have everyone eagerly anticipating a delicious meal.
Perfect for Meal Prep
If you're looking for a dish that makes meal prep a breeze, look no further. Creamy Italian Meatball Soup can be easily made in larger batches, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week. Simply store individual servings in airtight containers, and you’ll have a quick, satisfying meal ready to go whenever hunger strikes.
Reheating is simple, and the flavors only get better as they meld together over time. Pack it for lunch or enjoy it after a long day; this soup truly shines as a convenient meal option for busy lifestyles.
Customization Options
One of the best aspects of this soup is its adaptability. Feel free to customize the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences. For a lighter version, you can swap the heavy cream for a low-fat alternative or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Adding spinach or kale can also enhance the nutritional value and bring a pop of color to the dish.
You can experiment with different types of ground meats, such as turkey or chicken, for a leaner meatball. Herbs and spices can be adjusted based on what you have on hand, making this recipe a great choice for using up pantry staples.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create a delicious Creamy Italian Meatball Soup.
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Soup
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil for garnish
Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking!
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your Creamy Italian Meatball Soup.
Make the Meatballs
In a bowl, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Form into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
Brown the Meatballs
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add Broth and Meatballs
Add chicken broth and diced tomatoes to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and return the meatballs to the pot. Simmer for 15 minutes.
Finish the Soup
Stir in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Cook for another 5 minutes until heated through. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Enjoy your homemade Creamy Italian Meatball Soup!
Storing Leftovers
Storing leftovers properly ensures that you can enjoy your Creamy Italian Meatball Soup later without sacrificing flavor or texture. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or in the freezer for up to three months.
When reheating, be cautious not to let it boil, as this can affect the creaminess of the soup. A gentle simmer on the stove or a quick zap in the microwave will bring it back to its delicious state.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Creamy Italian Meatball Soup with a fresh garden salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top adds a savory touch, elevating the dish even further. For a bit of heat, consider serving with a side of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
This soup also makes an excellent starter for a larger Italian meal. Serve it alongside pasta dishes or alongside antipasto platters for a complete dining experience that will impress your guests.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and will keep the soup lighter.
→ How can I make this soup dairy-free?
Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
→ Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad.
Creamy Italian Meatball Soup
Indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with this comforting Creamy Italian Meatball Soup. Perfect for chilly evenings or a cozy family dinner.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Soup
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil for garnish
How-To Steps
In a bowl, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Form into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add chicken broth and diced tomatoes to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and return the meatballs to the pot. Simmer for 15 minutes.
Stir in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Cook for another 5 minutes until heated through. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 20g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 25g