Description

This Creamy Italian Meatball Soup brings together the soul-warming essence of Italian comfort food in one simple, satisfying bowl. With tender meatballs, rich tomato cream broth, pasta, and greens, it’s the perfect easy dinner idea for cozy nights. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal prep option, family-friendly comfort food, or new dinner ideas, this easy recipe checks every box. It’s hearty, flavorful, and ready in under an hour — perfect for weeknights or make-ahead meals.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small yellow onion, finely diced

2 ribs celery, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes

4 cups chicken broth

1/2 cup tomato sauce or marinara

1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half

Salt and pepper to taste

16 to 20 small cooked meatballs

3/4 cup small pasta (ditalini, shells, elbows)

2 cups baby spinach or chopped kale

1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and celery, cooking until soft, about 4–5 minutes.

2. Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Add diced tomatoes (with juices), chicken broth, and tomato sauce. Stir and bring to a low boil.

4. Gently drop in the meatballs. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes.

5. Stir in the pasta and cook until just al dente, about 7–8 minutes.

6. Reduce heat and stir in the cream or half-and-half. Simmer for another 2–3 minutes.

7. Add spinach and Parmesan. Stir until spinach wilts and cheese melts.

8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with basil or parsley. Serve hot.

Notes

Let the soup cool before storing to keep the texture and flavor intact.

Add the pasta just before serving if making ahead to avoid sogginess.

Simmer gently after adding cream to prevent curdling.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1.5 cups
Calories: 420
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 980mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 21g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: creamy meatball soup, easy dinner, Italian soup, one-pot meal, pasta soup