Creamy Italian Meatball Soup

Name: Creamy Italian Meatball Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tsp dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Recipes

Indulge in a comforting bowl of Creamy Italian Meatball Soup, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-12-11T18:43:05.342Z

This Creamy Italian Meatball Soup combines the rich flavors of Italian herbs and spices with tender meatballs in a velvety broth. Perfect for any occasion!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy texture that warms your soul
Hearty meatballs infused with Italian spices
Perfectly balanced flavors in every spoonful

      

A Hearty Comfort Food

When the weather turns chilly, nothing warms the heart quite like a bowl of soup. This Creamy Italian Meatball Soup is not just a meal; it's a hug in a bowl. Each spoonful offers a rich and creamy texture, with hearty meatballs that are infused with classic Italian spices. It's perfect for those cozy evenings spent with loved ones, bringing everyone together around the dinner table.

Comfort food often evokes memories of family traditions and gatherings. This soup, with its savory flavors and creamy goodness, is ideal for creating new memories. Whether it's a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish will be the highlight of your table, making it the perfect centerpiece for any occasion.

Nutritional Benefits

While comfort food is often associated with indulgence, this Creamy Italian Meatball Soup offers a good balance of nutrients. The combination of lean ground beef and fresh vegetables provides a healthy dose of protein, vitamins, and minerals. The added heavy cream gives it a luxurious texture, while still allowing you to enjoy all the benefits of the wholesome ingredients.

Incorporating vegetables like carrots and celery not only enhances the flavor but also adds essential nutrients. This soup is a great way to sneak in those extra servings of vegetables, making it suitable for both adults and children. With every bowl, you can feel good knowing you’re nourishing your body while enjoying a delicious meal.

Customization Options

One of the best aspects of this Creamy Italian Meatball Soup is its versatility. While the recipe provides a solid foundation, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with different types of ground meat, such as turkey or chicken, for a lighter option.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. And if you prefer a thicker soup, you can reduce the amount of chicken broth or add a cornstarch slurry to achieve your desired consistency. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this dish uniquely your own.

Ingredients

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
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Soup

1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cups chicken broth
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Make the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Form into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

Cook the Meatballs

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Prepare the Soup Base

In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in chicken broth and diced tomatoes.

Combine and Simmer

Return the meatballs to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes. Stir in heavy cream and basil. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your delicious Creamy Italian Meatball Soup!

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing your Creamy Italian Meatball Soup with a fresh, crusty bread. A warm baguette or garlic bread is perfect for dipping, allowing you to savor every drop of the delicious broth. The combination of the creamy soup and crunchy bread creates a delightful contrast that enhances the overall meal.

A light salad also complements this hearty soup beautifully. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing touch, balancing the richness of the soup. The acidity of the dressing will awaken your palate, making each bite more enjoyable.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! Creamy Italian Meatball Soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the flavors intact, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This makes it easy to enjoy a quick and satisfying meal later in the week.

Reheating is a breeze; simply warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through. If the soup thickens upon storage, you can add a splash of chicken broth or cream to reach your desired consistency. This way, you can enjoy the comforting flavors of this delicious soup all over again!

Freezing for Future Meals

For those who love meal prepping, this Creamy Italian Meatball Soup is a great candidate for freezing. Allow the soup to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights when you need a quick meal.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen soup, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. This means you can have a hearty, homemade meal ready to go with minimal effort, perfect for those days when time is short but a comforting meal is still desired.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen meatballs?

Yes, you can use frozen meatballs. Just add them directly to the soup and cook until heated through.

→ Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the soup in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.