When you take a sip of this Creamy Italian Meatball Soup, it’s like wrapping yourself in the coziest blanket on a chilly night. Picture hearty meatballs floating in a rich and creamy broth, infused with aromatic herbs and spices. The kitchen fills with the warm, inviting aroma that beckons everyone to gather around the table, eagerly anticipating a bowl of comfort. For more inspiration, check out this Italian lunch recipes recipe.
This soup isn’t just for dinner; it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this dish brings joy and warmth that makes every moment special. I remember the first time I made this soup; my family couldn’t stop raving about it. The laughter and satisfaction at the dinner table were priceless! For more inspiration, check out this dinner recipes recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy Italian meatball soup is easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- Its delightful flavors will have everyone asking for seconds
- With its appealing colors, this soup looks as good as it tastes
- Perfect as a main dish but versatile enough for lunch leftovers!
One snowy evening, I served this soup to friends who had come over for a game night. Their delighted faces as they took their first slurps are memories I cherish.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for juiciness without excess fat; it keeps your meatballs tender.
- Italian Sausage: A mix of sweet and spicy sausage adds depth and flavor to your meatballs.
- Fresh Basil: Opt for vibrant green leaves; they brighten the soup with fresh herbal notes.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic elevates the flavor profile; use crushed cloves for maximum taste.
- Heavy Cream: Adds that luscious creaminess; don’t skimp on it!
- Crushed Tomatoes: Use quality canned tomatoes for richness; they serve as the flavorful base of the soup.
- Chicken Broth: A good broth is key; opt for low-sodium versions to control the salt level.
- Pasta (like Orzo or Ditalini): These small pasta shapes soak up the soup’s flavor beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef and Italian sausage with breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chopped basil. Mix until just combined without overworking.
Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic until fragrant and golden but not burnt—about one minute should do.
Add Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth while scraping any stuck bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring everything to a gentle simmer.
Cook Your Meatballs: Gently drop meatballs into the simmering broth. Let them cook through for about 20 minutes until they’re fully cooked and tender.
Add Pasta and Cream: Stir in uncooked pasta into the soup along with heavy cream. Cook until pasta is al dente—roughly 10 minutes—and keep stirring occasionally.
Finishing Touches: Taste your genius creation! Adjust seasoning if needed with salt or pepper. Serve hot with more fresh basil on top if desired.
And there you have it—a creamy Italian meatball soup that’s sure to impress anyone lucky enough to share your table!
You Must Know
- This creamy Italian meatball soup is a hug in a bowl
- With its rich flavors and hearty texture, it’s perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests
- The aroma alone will have everyone flocking to the kitchen, eager for a taste
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the meatballs first to lock in flavors, then simmer them in the broth while adding vegetables. This ensures that every bite is packed with deliciousness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out traditional pasta for gluten-free options or toss in some greens like spinach or kale for added nutrition. Customize it according to your taste!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat for best texture and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use freshly grated cheese for maximum creaminess; it melts better than pre-shredded varieties
- Sauté garlic before adding broth for an aromatic punch
- Make extra meatballs; they’re perfect for snacks or sandwiches later!
The first time I made this creamy Italian meatball soup, my friends devoured it within minutes and begged for seconds—like locusts on a cornfield! It reminded me how food can bring people together.
FAQ
What can I use instead of ground beef for the meatballs?
Ground turkey or chicken works well as leaner alternatives without sacrificing flavor.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute meatballs with plant-based ones and use vegetable broth as the base.
How can I thicken my soup if it’s too watery?
Adding a cornstarch slurry or blending some of the soup can create a thicker consistency.
Creamy Italian Meatball Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Creamy Italian Meatball Soup is a warm and comforting dish that wraps you in cozy flavors with every bite. This rich and creamy soup features tender meatballs swimming in a savory broth infused with aromatic herbs and spices. Perfect for gatherings or quiet nights at home, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the delightful blend of flavors that makes this soup a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
- 1 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes (canned)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup small pasta (like Orzo or Ditalini)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix ground beef, Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and chopped basil until just combined.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Stir in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth; bring to a gentle simmer.
- Gently drop meatballs into the simmering broth; cook for about 20 minutes until fully cooked.
- Add uncooked pasta and heavy cream; cook until pasta is al dente (approximately 10 minutes), stirring occasionally.
- Adjust seasoning as needed; serve hot garnished with fresh basil.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 85mg