Italian Meatball Soup: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Italian Meatball Soup, or “minestra maritata” as it’s traditionally known, is more than just a soup; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a taste of Nonna’s kitchen, and a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients. Have you ever craved a dish that’s both comforting and bursting with flavor? A dish that transports you to a sun-drenched Italian countryside with every spoonful? Then look no further!

This hearty soup boasts a rich history, dating back centuries in Southern Italy. The name “minestra maritata” translates to “married soup,” referring to the harmonious marriage of flavors between the meat (typically meatballs and sausage) and the greens (like escarole, spinach, or cabbage). It was often served during special occasions and family gatherings, symbolizing unity and togetherness.

What makes Italian Meatball Soup so universally loved? It’s the perfect balance of savory, tender meatballs, the slight bitterness of the greens, and the deeply flavorful broth. The texture is delightful – a comforting mix of soft meatballs, slightly wilted greens, and a satisfyingly rich liquid. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables and herbs. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting dish to share with loved ones, this soup is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to experience the magic of Italian comfort food!

this RECIPE

Ingredients:

• For the Meatballs:
• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend is ideal for flavor and moisture)
• 1/2 pound ground pork (adds richness and depth)
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned preferred, or plain with added Italian seasoning)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best!)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/4 cup milk (helps keep the meatballs tender)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
• For the Soup:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium is recommended so you can control the salt)
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup small pasta (ditalini, acini di pepe, or orzo work well)
• 1 cup chopped fresh spinach (or other leafy green like kale or escarole)
• Fresh parsley, for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Making the Meatballs:

Alright, let’s get started with the heart of this soup – the meatballs! I find that making them first allows them to chill a bit while I prep the rest of the soup, which helps them hold their shape better during cooking.

1. In a large bowl, gently combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, egg, milk, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Don’t overmix! Overmixing can result in tough meatballs. Use your hands to gently incorporate all the ingredients until just combined.
2. Once the mixture is combined, it’s time to form the meatballs. I like to use a small cookie scoop to ensure they’re all roughly the same size – about 1 inch in diameter. This helps them cook evenly. Roll the mixture between your palms to form smooth, round meatballs.
3. Place the formed meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents them from sticking.
4. Cover the baking sheet with plastic wrap and refrigerate the meatballs for at least 30 minutes. This chilling period helps them firm up and prevents them from falling apart in the soup. You can even chill them for a couple of hours if you have the time!

Preparing the Soup Base:

While the meatballs are chilling, let’s get the soup base going. This is where all the delicious flavors start to build!

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Make sure the pot is large enough to accommodate all the ingredients later on.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. This is the classic mirepoix, the foundation of many great soups and sauces. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. You want them to be tender but not browned.
3. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes. Stir to combine.
5. Add the cannellini beans, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to incorporate all the spices.
6. Bring the soup to a simmer. Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful the soup will become!

Cooking the Meatballs and Pasta:

Now for the grand finale – adding the meatballs and pasta to the simmering soup!

1. Gently drop the chilled meatballs into the simmering soup. Be careful not to overcrowd the pot. If necessary, cook the meatballs in batches.
2. Increase the heat slightly to bring the soup back to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through. You can check for doneness by cutting one open – it should be cooked all the way through with no pink remaining.
3. Add the pasta to the soup. Cook according to the package directions, or until the pasta is tender. Keep an eye on the pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Finishing Touches and Serving:

Almost there! Just a few more steps to make this soup absolutely perfect.

1. Stir in the chopped fresh spinach (or other leafy green) during the last few minutes of cooking. The spinach will wilt quickly.
2. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remember that the broth and Parmesan cheese already contain salt, so taste before adding more.
3. Ladle the soup into bowls.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese. A drizzle of olive oil is also a nice touch.

Tips and Variations:

• Meatball Variations: Feel free to experiment with different types of ground meat. Ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of beef or pork. You can also add other ingredients to the meatballs, such as finely chopped onions, carrots, or zucchini.
• Vegetable Variations: Add other vegetables to the soup, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or potatoes.
• Pasta Variations: Use any small pasta shape you like. Orzo, acini di pepe, and ditalini are all good choices. You can also use gluten-free pasta.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. If you don’t like spice, you can omit them altogether.
• Make Ahead: The soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will actually improve as it sits!
• Freezing: This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Note that the pasta may become a bit softer after freezing and thawing.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve with crusty bread for dipping. A side salad is also a great addition.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this hearty and flavorful Italian Meatball Soup as much as I do! It’s the perfect comfort food for a chilly day.

Conclusion:

So, there you have it! This isn’t just another soup recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a taste of Italy right in your own kitchen. I truly believe this Italian Meatball Soup is a must-try for anyone who loves comforting, flavorful food. The combination of tender, savory meatballs, hearty vegetables, and that rich, aromatic broth is simply irresistible. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to curl up on the couch with a good book and savor every single spoonful.

But why is it a must-try, you ask? Well, beyond the incredible flavor, it’s surprisingly easy to make. Yes, there are a few steps involved, but each one is straightforward and contributes to the overall depth of flavor. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up any leftover vegetables you might have lurking in your fridge. Think of it as a delicious and resourceful way to create a memorable meal!

And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! While I’ve shared my go-to recipe, feel free to get creative and adapt it to your own preferences. Want to add a little kick? Throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes. Prefer a creamier soup? Stir in a dollop of ricotta cheese or a swirl of heavy cream at the end. You could even add some pasta, like ditalini or orzo, for an even heartier meal. The possibilities are endless!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

• Serve with a crusty loaf of Italian bread for dipping into that delicious broth.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese.
• For a lighter version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for the meatballs.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright, zesty flavor.
• If you’re short on time, you can use pre-made meatballs, but I highly recommend making your own for the best flavor.
• Consider adding other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or kale.

This Italian Meatball Soup is also perfect for meal prepping. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld together. Make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week for lunch or dinner. It’s a healthy, satisfying, and convenient option that you’ll be happy to have on hand.

I’m so confident that you’ll love this recipe, and I can’t wait to hear what you think! So, gather your ingredients, put on some Italian music, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Cooking should be fun and rewarding, and this soup is guaranteed to bring a smile to your face.

Now, it’s your turn! I encourage you to try this recipe and share your experience with me. Did you make any variations? What did you think of the flavor? What did your family and friends say? I’m eager to hear all about it! Leave a comment below or tag me in your photos on social media. Let’s spread the love for this amazing Italian Meatball Soup and inspire others to get cooking!

Happy cooking, and Buon Appetito!