Meatball Soup Recipe

If you’re craving something heartwarming, flavorful, and utterly comforting, this Meatball Soup is exactly what you need in your life. Imagine tender homemade meatballs swimming in a rich tomato broth peppered with garlic and Italian herbs, twirling with rotini pasta and brightened by fresh baby spinach and a splash of cream. Every spoonful hits all the right notes — savory, creamy, and just homey enough to make you feel wrapped up in a cozy kitchen on a chilly evening. This Meatball Soup is not only simple to make but also a crowd-pleaser that brings a smile to the table every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple, each playing a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color in this savory Meatball Soup. From the aromatic garlic and onions to the tender meatballs and lush baby spinach, every element works harmoniously to elevate this dish.

• Homemade or frozen meatballs: The star protein that adds heartiness and flavor to the soup.
• Olive oil: Provides a rich base for sautéing and adds a silky mouthfeel.
• Yellow onion: Adds a natural sweetness and depth as it caramelizes.
• Garlic cloves: Infuse the broth with their irresistible aroma and punch.
• Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that brings that classic Italian flair.
• Tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor for richness and color.
• Chicken broth: Forms the comforting, savory base of the soup.
• Crushed tomatoes: Adds texture and an authentic tomato freshness.
• Rotini pasta: Twists and curls that hold onto the broth beautifully.
• Baby spinach: Adds a pop of green color and a subtle earthiness.
• Heavy cream: Creates a silky, luscious finish that rounds out the soup.
• Kosher salt and fresh cracked pepper: Essential seasonings to bring everything together perfectly.
• Shaved Parmesan and chopped parsley: Garnishes that add brightness and that final touch of indulgence.

How to Make Meatball Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

Start by either making your favorite homemade Italian meatballs, using my easy recipe, or thawing some quality frozen meatballs. Having tender, flavorful meatballs is key since they’re the heart of this Meatball Soup and will infuse the broth with savory goodness.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat, then add diced yellow onion with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Cook them slowly until they start to caramelize and develop that golden-brown sweetness, which builds a flavor base you’ll love.

Step 3: Add Garlic, Italian Seasoning, and Tomato Paste

Stir in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and tomato paste along with a bit more salt and pepper. Cook for about a minute until fragrant, stirring frequently. This step unlocks a rich, herby, garlicky foundation that really sets this Meatball Soup apart.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

Add a few splashes of chicken broth to loosen any caramelized bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. These bits are flavor gold, and scraping them off enriches the broth with extra depth.

Step 5: Add Remaining Broth, Tomatoes, Pasta, and Meatballs

Pour in the rest of the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes, then add the rotini and cooked meatballs. Season again with salt and pepper and stir everything together. This combination starts the main simmer phase where all flavors meld beautifully.

Step 6: Simmer Until Pasta is Al Dente

Bring everything to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce to low and cover the pot. Let it cook for 12-15 minutes until the pasta is perfectly tender but still has a bite. This simmering step infuses the soup with that signature warmth and homestyle comfort.

Step 7: Finish with Spinach and Cream

Stir in baby spinach and heavy cream until the spinach wilts and the soup is heated through. The cream adds a dreamy silkiness that transforms this from simple tomato soup to something special and indulgent.

Step 8: Season and Garnish

Adjust seasoning with salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste. Ladle the Meatball Soup into bowls and top each serving with shaved Parmesan and freshly chopped parsley for that perfect burst of flavor and freshness.

How to Serve Meatball Soup

Garnishes

Don’t skip the garnishes! Shaved Parmesan melts slightly into the hot soup, adding a nutty richness, while fresh parsley brings a vibrant herbaceous contrast that brightens the bowl. They both elevate your presentation and your palate.

Side Dishes

A warm, crusty piece of garlic bread or herbed focaccia is the ultimate companion for Meatball Soup, perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop. A light green salad with a lemony vinaigrette can also bring a refreshing balance to this comforting meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful twist, serve the soup in small, individual bread bowls for an inviting rustic dinner that doubles as a conversation starter. Alternatively, consider layering the meatballs and pasta at the bottom, then ladling broth on top for a dramatic reveal at the table!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the Meatball Soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it an easy and satisfying meal to enjoy later without any loss in flavor or texture.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully. Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-lock bags for up to 3 months. I recommend leaving out the fresh spinach until reheating to maintain its bright color and texture.

Reheating

Reheat your Meatball Soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if the pasta has absorbed too much liquid. For best results, add fresh spinach near the end of reheating.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought frozen meatballs for this soup?

Absolutely! Using frozen meatballs is a huge time-saver and works perfectly. Just be sure to thaw them overnight or cook according to package instructions before adding to the soup to ensure even heating and great texture.

What pasta works best in Meatball Soup?

Rotini is fantastic because its twists hold onto the broth beautifully, but you can also use small shells, ditalini, or orzo if that’s what you have on hand. Just adjust cooking time according to the pasta you choose.

Can I make this Meatball Soup vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap meatballs for your favorite plant-based versions or hearty vegetable balls. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and keep all the other delicious flavor components the same.

How do I keep the spinach from turning mushy?

Adding the spinach right at the end of cooking and stirring just until it wilts helps keep it fresh and slightly crisp. Overcooking can cause it to lose its vibrant color and become soggy.

Is it possible to make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker by sautéing the aromatics first, then combining all ingredients except the spinach and cream in the cooker. Add the spinach and cream in the last 15 minutes of cooking for best results.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try this Meatball Soup, it will become one of your all-time favorites for good reason. It’s cozy, packed with flavor, and comforting in the very best way — perfect for weeknight dinners or anytime you want a warm hug in a bowl. Give this recipe a try and watch it quickly earn a permanent place in your recipe collection!

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