Creamy Italian Meatball Soup - Succulent Recipes

Name: Creamy Italian Meatball Soup - Succulent Recipes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1 clove garlic, minced; 1 egg; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Creamy Italian Meatball Soup is a comforting bowl of goodness, combining tender meatballs, rich broth, and a creamy finish that warms the soul.

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2025-12-11T11:35:47.331Z

This soup brings together the best flavors of Italy in a creamy, hearty dish that's perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. The meatballs are seasoned to perfection and the creamy broth adds a delightful richness.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and comforting with every spoonful
Perfect balance of flavors from Italian herbs and spices
Creamy texture that warms you from the inside out

      

Ingredients You'll Need

To create this Creamy Italian Meatball Soup, gather a selection of simple yet flavorful ingredients. For the meatballs, you'll need ground beef combined with breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, garlic, and an egg. This mixture not only forms the base of the meatballs but also infuses them with Italian flavors that make the dish truly special.

The soup itself is crafted with a robust chicken broth, sautéed vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery, and a touch of heavy cream for that creamy finish. The addition of dried Italian herbs elevates the flavor profile, making each spoonful a delightful experience. Ensure you have fresh parsley on hand for garnishing, as it adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This soup is versatile enough to be served on various occasions. Whether you're looking for a comforting meal on a chilly night or a hearty dish to impress guests at a dinner party, this Creamy Italian Meatball Soup fits the bill. It’s a fantastic option for family gatherings or holiday celebrations, where warm, inviting flavors are a must.

Additionally, this soup can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prep. Simply store it in the refrigerator or freezer, and reheat when you’re ready to serve. The flavors deepen and intensify as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.

Tips for Success

To ensure your meatballs are perfectly tender, avoid over-mixing the ingredients. Just combine them until they are incorporated; this helps maintain a light and airy texture. When shaping the meatballs, try to keep them uniform in size for even cooking. A scoop or your hands can help you achieve consistency.

When cooking the meatballs, make sure your pot is hot enough to sear them nicely. This not only adds flavor but also helps seal in the juices. If you prefer a thicker soup, feel free to adjust the amount of cream or add a cornstarch slurry to achieve your desired consistency.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 clove garlic, minced
1 egg
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Soup

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to make the process easier.

Instructions

Make the Meatballs

In a bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and form into small meatballs.

Cook the Meatballs

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the 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 the vegetables are tender. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.

Combine and Simmer

Return the meatballs to the pot, reduce heat, and let simmer for 15 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Italian Meatball Soup!

Nutritional Benefits

This Creamy Italian Meatball Soup is not just delicious; it also offers nutritional benefits. The ground beef provides a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. The addition of vegetables like carrots and celery adds vitamins and minerals, making each bowl a wholesome meal.

Furthermore, the use of fresh parsley not only enhances the flavor but also adds antioxidants and vitamins, contributing to overall health. The combination of ingredients ensures that this soup is not only satisfying but also nourishing for your body.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different types of meat for your meatballs. Ground turkey or chicken can be a lighter alternative, while pork can add a unique flavor twist. You can also mix different cheeses into the meatball mixture for added richness and depth.

For a vegetarian version, consider using lentils or chickpeas in place of meat. Combining these with breadcrumbs and spices can create a delightful meatball alternative that pairs beautifully with the creamy soup base.

Storage and Reheating

This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Portion it out into freezer-safe containers, and it will last for up to three months. Just remember to let it cool completely before freezing to maintain its texture.

When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens during storage, you can add a splash of chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency before serving.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey works well for a leaner option.

→ How can I make this soup gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure your chicken broth is gluten-free.

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, this soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad.