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 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup spinach, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Indulge in the comforting warmth of this creamy Italian meatball soup, perfect for cozy evenings and family gatherings.

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2025-12-11T12:07:48.249Z

This creamy Italian meatball soup combines succulent homemade meatballs with a rich, creamy broth. Perfect for chilly nights, it's a dish that warms the heart and soul.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy flavor that comforts the soul
Tender meatballs that are bursting with Italian herbs
Perfectly balanced with fresh vegetables and spices

      

A Comforting Classic

Creamy Italian meatball soup is a wonderful dish that embodies the essence of comforting home-cooked meals. The rich, creamy broth envelops tender meatballs, making each spoonful a delightful experience. This soup is not just a meal; it's an invitation to gather around the table and enjoy the warmth of family and friendship. Whether it's a chilly evening or a casual family dinner, this soup will surely become a favorite in your household.

The combination of savory meatballs and fresh vegetables creates a balanced dish that is both satisfying and nutritious. The flavors meld beautifully, offering a taste profile that is reminiscent of traditional Italian cuisine. With every bite, you're transported to a cozy Italian kitchen, filled with the aromas of garlic, herbs, and rich broth. It's a culinary journey that you can easily recreate at home.

Health Benefits of Ingredients

This soup not only pleases the palate but also offers numerous health benefits. The primary ingredient, ground beef, is a great source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair. The addition of vegetables like carrots, celery, and spinach boosts the nutritional value, providing vitamins and minerals that support overall health. Incorporating these fresh ingredients ensures that you're not just indulging in comfort food, but also nurturing your body.

Moreover, the use of chicken broth adds depth to the flavor while being low in calories, making it a great base for soups. The heavy cream, while rich, can be balanced with lower-fat alternatives if desired, allowing you to customize this recipe to fit your dietary needs without sacrificing taste. This makes creamy Italian meatball soup a versatile option for various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Soup

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

Combine all ingredients and prepare to cook!

Steps

Make the Meatballs

In a bowl, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add meatballs and brown on all sides (about 5-7 minutes). Remove and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables

In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Combine and Simmer

Add chicken broth and diced tomatoes to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 10 minutes.

Return meatballs to the pot and simmer for an additional 10 minutes.

Finish the Soup

Stir in heavy cream and spinach. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until spinach is wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Enjoy your delicious creamy Italian meatball soup!

Tips for Perfect Meatballs

Achieving the perfect meatball is an art, and a few simple tips can elevate your dish significantly. Ensure that you don’t overmix the meatball ingredients; otherwise, they can become tough. Instead, gently combine everything just until mixed. Also, using fresh herbs can greatly enhance flavor, so opt for fresh Italian seasoning if possible. For an added twist, consider incorporating grated zucchini or finely chopped mushrooms into the meatball mixture for extra moisture and nutrition.

Another key factor is the size of the meatballs. Keeping them around one inch in diameter ensures they cook evenly and retain their juiciness. If you're making a larger batch, feel free to freeze some meatballs before cooking; they can be thawed and cooked later for a quick meal that doesn't skimp on flavor.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving creamy Italian meatball soup, presentation can make all the difference. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. You can also sprinkle additional grated Parmesan on top for an extra layer of flavor. Pair the soup with crusty bread or garlic breadsticks to soak up the delicious broth, making every bite more enjoyable.

Consider serving this soup alongside a simple side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the rich, creamy soup, creating a well-rounded meal. Additionally, a glass of red wine can enhance the Italian experience, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or festive gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey instead of beef for the meatballs?

Yes, turkey is a great alternative for a leaner meatball.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, you can freeze the soup for up to 2 months. Just reheat on the stove when you're ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with the soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad.