Growing up in a big family meant that dinner was never just a meal—it was an event. And on the coldest days of fall and winter, when the windows fogged from the warmth of the stove and mittens hung drying by the door, one dish always brought us together: Creamy Italian Meatball Soup.

This soup is more than just hearty comfort food. It’s a bowl of nostalgia, a recipe often passed down in Italian-American kitchens where every meatball was rolled with care and every pot of soup was simmered with love. It combines the heartiness of home-cooked meatballs, the soothing richness of a creamy tomato base, and the added comfort of tender pasta—all in one pot.

Whether served at a Sunday family dinner, prepared in large batches for the week ahead, or simply made to soothe the soul on a gloomy day, this dish captures the essence of Italian comfort food with a cozy American twist. And the best part? It’s surprisingly simple to make and packed with flavor in every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• A Cozy Classic – Nothing says comfort like a rich, creamy bowl of soup brimming with tender meatballs and warm pasta.
• Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor – Everyday staples turn into something extraordinary with Italian seasoning, garlic, and Parmesan.
• Great for Leftovers – The flavor deepens with time, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day enjoyment.
• Kid-Approved – Creamy Italian Meatball Soup is a family favorite, even with the pickiest eaters.
• One-Pot Wonder – Fewer dishes, more joy. Everything comes together in a single pot.

INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef or lamb
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

For the Soup:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 4 cups chicken or beef broth
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow macaroni)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup fresh spinach or basil leaves

How to Make Creamy Italian Meatball Soup

The soul of this soup is in the love you put into every step. Here’s how to make it:

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Make the Meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and parsley. Using your hands, mix until just combined—don’t overwork it. Roll into 1-inch balls, like grandma used to, lining them on a tray.

2. Brown the Meatballs:
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot. Brown the meatballs in batches, turning gently to sear all sides. This step locks in the flavor and adds richness to the broth. Once golden, set them aside.

3. Build the Flavor Base:
In the same pot, sauté diced onion, celery, and garlic until translucent and fragrant—about 5 minutes. The bits left behind from the meatballs deepen the flavor.

4. Create the Broth:
Add the diced tomatoes (with juices), broth, and seasonings to the pot. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil.

5. Simmer and Soften:
Return the meatballs to the pot. Reduce heat and let them simmer gently for 15 minutes. The aroma alone will have your family gathering around the kitchen.

6. Add Pasta and Cream:
Stir in the pasta and cook until al dente. Lower the heat, then slowly pour in the cream, stirring until it blends seamlessly with the broth. Add the Parmesan and fresh spinach or basil, stirring until wilted.

7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle generous portions into bowls, top with extra cheese, and serve with crusty bread or garlic knots. Every spoonful is creamy, savory, and satisfying.

Helpful Tips:

• Batch and Freeze Meatballs: Make extra meatballs and freeze them raw for future soups or pasta nights.
• Avoid Mushy Pasta: If you plan on storing leftovers, cook the pasta separately and add it fresh to each serving.
• Make It Vegetarian: Skip the meatballs and add white beans and extra veggies for a meat-free variation.
• Add a Touch of Heat: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a warming depth to the broth.

Details:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Diet: Halal

Notes:

This recipe welcomes your personal touch. Substitute fresh basil with kale for a heartier green, or use a gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs to suit dietary needs. It’s endlessly adaptable—just like the best family recipes.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is Italian meatball soup?
Italian meatball soup is a comforting dish featuring tender beef meatballs simmered in a seasoned tomato broth with vegetables and pasta. It’s a balanced, satisfying meal often enjoyed as a main course, combining bold Italian flavors with cozy, home-cooked appeal.

How long does it take to make Italian meatball soup?
Italian meatball soup typically takes about 45 to 60 minutes from start to finish. Prep and cooking are straightforward, making it an ideal choice for a hearty, weeknight dinner with rich flavors and wholesome ingredients.

How to make Meatball Soup?
To make meatball soup, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan, egg, and spices to form meatballs. Brown them, then simmer in a pot with tomatoes, broth, onions, carrots, and celery. Add pasta near the end for a one-pot, comforting Italian meal.

Can you make Italian meatball soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can easily make Italian meatball soup in a slow cooker. Combine beef meatballs, broth, canned tomatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and Italian seasoning. Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours until flavors meld and vegetables are tender—perfect for a hands-off, hearty dinner.

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze the soup without pasta for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

Related Recipes:

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• Cozy Olive Garden Vegetable Soup (Copycat)
• Lemon Lentil Soup
• Creamy Italian Meatball Soup
• Cozy Turmeric Soup

Conclusion:

Creamy Italian Meatball Soup is everything comfort food should be: warm, rich, nostalgic, and full of love. Whether it’s part of your family traditions or a new favorite to pass down, this dish has a way of making memories one bite at a time. It’s a weeknight hero and a weekend star—fitting for quiet dinners or loud, laughter-filled tables.

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