Creamy Italian Meatball Soup Recipe – Comfort in a Bowl

Name: Creamy Italian Meatball Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 14.5 oz diced fire-roasted tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Published: March 22, 2025

by Mia Hanry

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This creamy Italian meatball soup offers robust flavors that dance on your palate.
It’s quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends alike.
The beautiful presentation makes it ideal for serving guests or simply treating yourself.
Plus, it’s so versatile; feel free to customize with your favorite veggies!

I remember the first time I made this recipe; my friends couldn’t get enough and begged for seconds!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for juicy meatballs without excess grease.
Italian Breadcrumbs: These add flavor and texture; you can use homemade or store-bought.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese enhances both taste and creaminess in the soup.
Diced Tomatoes: Opt for fire-roasted tomatoes for an extra layer of smokiness.
Heavy Cream: Essential for that luxurious creaminess that makes this dish irresistible.
Fresh Basil: Adds brightness and freshness; make sure it’s chopped finely!
Onion & Garlic: Sauté them together until fragrant for a flavorful base.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of your dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare the Meatballs: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Roll them into 1-inch balls.

Sear the Meatballs: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add meatballs carefully and sauté until browned on all sides – about 8 minutes.

Add Aromatics: Toss in chopped onion and remaining garlic into the pot with meatballs. Cook until onions become translucent and aromatic.

Create the Soup Base: Pour diced tomatoes and chicken broth into the pot with seared meatballs. Stir well and let simmer for 10 minutes to meld flavors.

Add Creaminess: Slowly pour in heavy cream while stirring gently. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired; allow it to simmer another 5 minutes.

Finish with Freshness: Stir in freshly chopped basil right before serving for a pop of flavor. Ladle into bowls and enjoy!

This creamy Italian meatball soup is sure to leave you satisfied!

You Must Know

The secret to a rich, creamy broth is slowly simmering the meatballs.
This allows flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the soup light and satisfying.
A sprinkle of fresh herbs at the end elevates the dish visually and flavor-wise, making it irresistible.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the meatballs in a skillet for maximum flavor, then transfer them to simmer in the broth while vegetables soften.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or even add spinach for extra nutrition. A dash of lemon zest can brighten up the flavors too.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve creaminess.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfect meatballs, use a mix of ground meats for depth of flavor.
Avoid overcrowding when browning; this ensures a nice crust forms.
Always taste your broth before serving; it should sing with flavor!

I remember serving this creamy Italian meatball soup at a family gathering; everyone went back for seconds! It turned out to be a crowd-pleaser and sparked some fun debates over who made the best meatballs.

FAQs

FAQ

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter option.

Can I freeze creamy Italian meatball soup?

Yes, but freeze without cream and add it when reheating for best results.

How do I prevent my meatballs from falling apart?

Chill your meatball mixture before cooking; this helps them hold their shape better.

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