Creamy Italian Meatball Soup

First things first—thank you so much for stopping by! You’re in for something cozy, comforting, and oh-so satisfying today. This Creamy Italian Meatball Soup is everything you want in a bowl: juicy, savory meatballs swimming in a rich tomato broth with tender pasta, soft veggies, and a creamy swirl that ties it all together. It’s that perfect “hug in a bowl” soup that warms you from the inside out.

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Creamy Italian Meatball Soup

What makes this recipe truly special? It’s the balance. You’ve got juicy homemade (or store-bought, no judgment here!) meatballs, classic Italian herbs, carrots and spinach for color and nutrition, tender pasta for heartiness, and a creamy tomato broth that’s just indulgent enough to feel luxurious but not heavy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One pot – Less cleanup, more comfort.
• Kid-friendly – Pasta + meatballs + creamy soup = total win.
• Freezer-friendly – Perfect for meal prep or gifting.
• Ready in under an hour – But tastes like it simmered all day!

What Does Creamy Italian Meatball Soup Taste Like?

It’s rich and comforting, with a velvety tomato base that wraps around every spoonful. The meatballs bring deep, savory flavor, while the herbs add classic Italian warmth. The cream adds just the right touch of indulgence, and the pasta? It makes every bite feel like a full meal. Think lasagna meets tomato soup—only even cozier.

Benefits of This Recipe

• Balanced and hearty – With protein, veggies, and carbs in one bowl.
• Great for leftovers – The flavors deepen overnight.
• Customizable – Swap pasta, add more veggies, or go dairy-free.
• Easy to make ahead – Even better the next day!

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

• 1 lb ground beef (or pork, turkey, or a mix)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
• 1 egg
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Shortcut: You can use 20–25 frozen meatballs if you’re in a hurry!

For the Soup:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup small pasta (ditalini, orzo, or elbow)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or half & half
• 2 cups baby spinach
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• Grated Parmesan and fresh basil for serving

Tools You’ll Need

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Mixing bowl (if making meatballs)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Ladle
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredient Swaps & Additions

• Ground meat: Use chicken, turkey, or plant-based meatballs.
• Dairy-free: Use coconut cream or almond milk for the creaminess.
• Extra veggies: Zucchini, kale, or peas are delicious additions.
• No pasta? Try rice or cooked gnocchi instead!

How to Make Creamy Italian Meatball Soup

Step 1: Prep the Meatballs

In a bowl, mix all meatball ingredients. Roll into 1-inch balls. Brown them in a hot skillet or bake at 400°F for 15 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Heat olive oil in a large pot. Sauté onion and carrots for 5–7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Simmer the Broth

Pour in the broth and crushed tomatoes. Stir in basil, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Add Meatballs & Pasta

Add cooked (or frozen) meatballs and pasta. Simmer for 10–12 minutes until pasta is tender.

Step 5: Add Cream & Spinach

Stir in cream and spinach. Let spinach wilt for 2–3 minutes. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.

Step 6: Serve

Ladle into bowls, top with Parmesan and fresh basil. Serve with crusty bread or a big salad!

What to Serve with Creamy Italian Meatball Soup

• Garlic bread or homemade focaccia
• Crisp green salad with Italian dressing
• Creamy Mushroom Soup – for a cozy soup-and-soup pairing on chilly days
• Mediterranean-Inspired Lemon Dill Chicken Bowls – bright, fresh, and perfect for balancing out a creamy main
• Authentic Thai Drunken Noodles – for a spicy, bold contrast that still keeps things comforting

Tips for the Best Creamy Meatball Soup

• Don’t overcook the pasta—it will keep softening in the broth.
• Use small meatballs for spoon-friendly bites.
• Add the cream at the end so it doesn’t curdle.
• For a richer soup, stir in a spoonful of mascarpone or cream cheese at the finish.

Storage Instructions

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze without pasta for up to 2 months. Add fresh pasta when reheating.
• Reheat: Warm gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.

General Info About Creamy Italian Meatball Soup

Inspired by the best parts of Italian home cooking—think comforting meatballs in marinara and creamy tomato soup—this dish brings together everything we love in one pot. It’s classic, crowd-pleasing, and endlessly adaptable depending on what’s in your pantry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought meatballs?

Absolutely! Just make sure they’re fully cooked before adding.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, it tastes even better the next day.

Can I freeze it?

Yes—freeze the soup without pasta for best results.

How do I make it spicier?

Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the broth.

Conclusion

This Creamy Italian Meatball Soup is comfort food done right—rich, flavorful, and ready to warm everyone at the table. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or batch-prepping for cozy lunches, this recipe brings classic Italian flavor with minimal effort. It’s like a hug in soup form—and I can’t wait for you to try it.

Looking for more feel-good dishes to round out the menu? Don’t miss:

• Creamy Mushroom Soup – the earthy, cozy soup that pairs perfectly with crusty bread
• Mediterranean-Inspired Lemon Dill Chicken Bowls – light, herby, and meal-prep ready
• Authentic Thai Drunken Noodles – spicy, savory noodles with bold flavor

📌 Made this recipe? I’d LOVE to see your cozy creation! Tag your bowl on Pinterest at TheKitchenJoyy and let’s share the comfort food love! 🥣✨

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