Description
A rich and hearty Healthy Creamy Italian Meatball Soup featuring tender homemade meatballs, savory broth, pasta, vegetables, and a splash of cream for comforting, full-bodied flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups (1 liter) chicken or beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup small pasta (such as ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach or basil, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese, Fresh basil or parsley, Crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatballs
2. – In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and parsley. Mix gently until combined. Avoid overmixing. Roll the mixture into small 1-inch meatballs and set aside.
3. Cook the Meatballs
4. – Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat with olive oil. Sear the meatballs for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. Set aside.
5. Sauté the Vegetables
6. – In the same pot, add onion, celery, and garlic. Sauté until softened (3-4 minutes).
7. Build the Soup Base
8. – Add diced tomatoes and broth. Stir well. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Return the meatballs to the pot and simmer for 15 minutes.
9. Cook the Pasta
10. – Stir in the pasta and simmer for 8-10 minutes until tender.
11. Make It Creamy
12. – Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Let it heat through for 2-3 minutes.
13. Finish and Serve
14. – Stir in chopped spinach or basil until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs.
Notes
You can use store-bought meatballs to save time. Swap spinach for kale or basil depending on your preference. For a spicy kick, add crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the vegetables.