Introduction
Transform simple ingredients into a comforting bowl of happiness with this Creamy Italian Meatball Soup! This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening, bringing the warmth of Italy right to your kitchen table. It’s surprisingly easy to make, and the whole family will be asking for seconds. Let’s get cooking!
Why This Works
This recipe works because it’s a beautiful balance of flavors and textures. The tender mini meatballs, perfectly cooked tortellini, and rich creamy broth create a symphony of taste. It’s also incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and straightforward instructions – perfect for busy weeknights!
Key Ingredients
- 🍝 1 pound mini pasta (such as tortellini or small meatballs)
- 🍅 28 ounces crushed tomatoes
- 🧅 1 medium onion, chopped
- 🧄 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 🌿 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 🌿 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 🌿 ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 🍄 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 🍖 1 pound ground beef
- 🥚 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 🍞 ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 🧀 ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 🥛 1 cup milk
- 🧈 2 tablespoons butter
- 🥄 1 teaspoon salt
- 🥄 ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Gently mix until just combined. Roll into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter).
2️⃣ Sauté Aromatics: Melt butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic, oregano, basil, and thyme and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3️⃣ Brown the Meatballs: Add the meatballs to the pot and brown them on all sides. This will give them a nice depth of flavor.
4️⃣ Simmer the Soup: Stir in crushed tomatoes, mushrooms, and milk. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
5️⃣ Add Pasta: Gently stir in the mini pasta (tortellini or similar). Continue to simmer until the pasta is cooked according to package directions.
6️⃣ Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy!
Handy Tips
- For extra flavor, use fresh herbs instead of dried.
- If you don’t have mini meatballs, you can use regular-sized meatballs and simply cut them in half.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as carrots or zucchini, to your soup.
Heat Control
Maintaining a gentle simmer is key. A rolling boil will cause the meatballs to break apart and the soup to become watery. Reduce the heat to low after bringing the soup to a simmer to ensure even cooking.
Crunch Factor
While this soup is primarily creamy and smooth, you can add a little crunch by topping it with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- For faster prep, use pre-minced garlic.
- To make cleanup easier, line your baking sheet with parchment paper when browning the meatballs.
Storage Tips
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This soup makes a wonderful gift for friends and family! Package it in a pretty thermos or a large, heat-safe container, with a handwritten tag.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Italian: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
🌟 Hearty Vegetable: Add diced carrots, celery, and zucchini along with the onions and mushrooms.
🌟 Creamy Spinach: Stir in a cup of fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking.
🌟 Lemon Herb: Add the zest and juice of half a lemon at the end for a bright, citrusy flavor.
Troubleshooting
- Meatballs too dry: Add a tablespoon or two more of milk to the soup.
- Soup too thick: Add a little more milk or broth to thin it out.
- Soup too thin: Simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce the liquid.
FAQ
- Can I use different pasta? Yes, you can use any small pasta shape you like, such as ditalini, small shells, or even small elbow macaroni.
- Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Yes, you can brown the meatballs on the stovetop, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Can I freeze this soup? Yes, allow it to cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
This Creamy Italian Meatball Soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners and cozy nights in. We hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we do! Don’t forget to share your creations and rate it on CookAndRate.com!