Italian Meatball Soup

Italian cuisine has a unique way of bringing people together, often serving as the centerpiece for family gatherings and cozy dinners. With its emphasis on fresh ingredients, aromatic herbs, and time-honored cooking techniques, it creates dishes that are both simple and extraordinary. The Cozy Italian Meatball Soup exemplifies this culinary ethos, combining the comforting elements of a savory soup with the flavor-packed goodness of homemade meatballs.

Warm up with Cozy Italian Meatball Soup, the ultimate comfort dish for chilly days! This heartwarming meal features tender meatballs, flavorful broth, and nutritious greens, all simmered to perfection. Rich in Italian traditions, the soup combines fresh ingredients and aromatic herbs that nourish both body and soul. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this cozy recipe brings people together around the table, making each spoonful a delightful culinary embrace.

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Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

1 lb ground beef

1/2 lb ground pork

1/2 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 egg

Salt and pepper to taste

For the Soup:

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

2 carrots, diced

2 celery stalks, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1 cup pasta (shells or orzo)

2 cups kale or spinach, roughly chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

Make the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing.

Form Meatballs: Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Set aside.

Start the Soup Base: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender, then add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Tomatoes & Broth: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

Cook the Meatballs: Gently add the meatballs to the pot, cover, and let them simmer in the soup for about 20 minutes, until cooked through.

Add Pasta & Greens: Once the meatballs are cooked, add the pasta to the soup. Cook for about 8-10 minutes (or according to pasta package instructions), until the pasta is al dente.

Finish with Greens: Stir in the chopped kale or spinach, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the greens are wilted. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy with crusty bread for a heartwarming meal!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 mins | 50 mins | 6 servings