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A bowl of savory Italian meatball soup garnished with fresh herbs.

Proven way to grow authentic Meatball Soup (Italian)

This authentic Italian meatball soup is a hearty and flavorful dish, perfect for a comforting meal. It features tender meatballs simmered in a rich broth with vegetables and pasta.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 egg beaten
  • 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
  • 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper
For the Soup
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion chopped
  • 2 carrots diced
  • 2 celery stalks diced
  • 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz
  • 6 cups beef broth
  • 0.5 cup small pasta such as ditalini or orzo
  • 3 cups fresh spinach chopped
For Serving
  • Parmesan cheese extra, for garnish

Equipment

  • large bowl
  • large pot
  • Dutch oven
  • ladle

Method
 

Make the Meatballs
  1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
  2. Mix gently until just combined, then roll into small, 1-inch meatballs.
Cook the Soup
  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery, then cook until softened for about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in diced tomatoes and beef broth, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
  4. Carefully add the meatballs to the simmering broth and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
  5. Stir in the small pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
  6. Add the chopped fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
Serve
  1. Ladle the soup into bowls, then garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can brown the meatballs in a separate pan before adding them to the soup. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a small amount of tomato paste along with the diced tomatoes. Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.