Hearty Italian Meatball Soup: A Bowl of Comfort
Savor the warmth and flavor of Italy with our Italian Meatball Soup—a comforting and satisfying dish that brings together the richness of meatballs, the tanginess of tomatoes, and the heartiness of pasta in one delightful bowl. Made with tender meatballs simmered in a flavorful broth alongside fusilli pasta and vibrant vegetables, this soup is a testament to the comforting power of homemade goodness. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or as a nourishing meal any time of the year, this Italian-inspired soup is sure to leave you feeling warmed from the inside out.
Italian Meatball Soup holds a special place in our family’s culinary repertoire—a dish that brings back memories of cozy evenings spent gathered around the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter. I still remember the first time I made this soup for my loved ones; the aroma of simmering tomatoes and spices filled the kitchen, drawing everyone in with eager anticipation. As we sat down to enjoy our first spoonfuls, we were transported to the streets of Italy, where the air is filled with the scent of simmering sauces and the sound of laughter fills the air. From that moment on, Italian Meatball Soup became a cherished family favorite—a symbol of love, warmth, and togetherness that we continue to enjoy to this day.
Why This Hearty Italian Meatball Soup Warms Hearts
- Homemade meatballs add a rich and savory flavor to the soup, providing a satisfying bite in every spoonful.
- A harmonious blend of crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and Italian seasoning creates a robust and flavorful broth that’s both comforting and nourishing.
- Fusilli pasta adds a delightful twist to the soup, providing a satisfying texture that complements the meatballs and vegetables perfectly.
- Vibrant red bell peppers and fragrant basil infuse the soup with freshness and color, elevating its taste and visual appeal.
- Easy to customize to your taste preferences, whether you prefer a hint of heat with crushed red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for added richness.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450 grams) meatballs (see note)
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 fluid ounce) can crushed tomatoes (such as fire roasted)
- 4 cups (960 ml) beef broth
- 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped small
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1.5 cups (180 grams) fusilli pasta
- 1/4 cup (10 grams) fresh basil, torn or chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat the olive oil in a soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, chopped red bell pepper, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and meatballs to the pot. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, add the fusilli pasta to the pot and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the soup, covered with a slightly open lid, for about 15 minutes or until the pasta is cooked to your liking, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Stir in the torn or chopped fresh basil and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the Italian Meatball Soup hot, optionally garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes:
- If using homemade meatballs, you may have leftovers for other meals. Alternatively, store-bought meatballs or your favorite recipe can be used.
- Adjust the thickness of the soup by adding more beef broth if needed, as some brands of crushed tomatoes may vary in consistency.
- Feel free to customize the soup with your favorite vegetables or herbs for added flavor and nutrition.
