There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Spaghetti and Meatball Soup wafting through your kitchen. Imagine tender meatballs swimming in a savory broth, with strands of spaghetti swirling around like they’re doing a little noodle dance. cozy potato soup recipe perfect side dish for soup Each spoonful bursts with flavors that hug your taste buds, making this dish an instant crowd-pleaser.
As the steam rises, memories flood back of family dinners where laughter echoed off the walls, and everyone fought for the last meatball. This soup is perfect for chilly evenings when all you need is a bowl of warmth and nostalgia. Get ready for an amazing flavor experience that will make you feel right at home.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Spaghetti and Meatball Soup is quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays
- The rich flavors meld beautifully, offering a hearty meal that satisfies
- Its vibrant look adds warmth to any dinner table, making it visually appealing
- Not only is it versatile enough for customizations, but it also tastes like a warm hug in a bowl
I remember the first time I served this soup to my friends; their eyes widened with delight as they scooped up the first bite!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for juicy meatballs without excess grease; it’ll keep your soup light and flavorful. For more inspiration, check out this meatballs with marinara recipe.
- Breadcrumbs: Fresh breadcrumbs help bind the meatballs together; you can even use leftover bread for extra flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan to add a nutty depth to your meatballs; it’s worth the extra effort!
- Garlic Cloves: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor—after all, garlic makes everything better!
- Canned Tomatoes: Opt for whole canned tomatoes; crush them yourself for a fresher taste in your soup.
- Spaghetti: Use thin spaghetti or break regular spaghetti into smaller pieces so it fits perfectly in every spoonful.
- Fresh Basil: A handful of fresh basil leaves gives your soup a burst of color and freshness; don’t skip this step!
- Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels while keeping the flavor rich.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Make the Meatballs: In a large bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until combined. Form into small meatballs about one inch in diameter. For more inspiration, check out this beef and cheese manicotti recipe.
Sear the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown meatballs on all sides until golden brown. Remove them from the pot and set aside on a plate.
Create the Soup Base: In the same pot, add chopped onions and cook until translucent and aromatic. Stir in crushed canned tomatoes along with chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
Add Back the Meatballs: Carefully return the browned meatballs to the pot along with any accumulated juices. Simmer gently for about 20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
Toss in the Spaghetti: Stir in broken spaghetti pieces during the last 10 minutes of cooking time until they are tender yet slightly al dente.
Finish with Fresh Herbs: Just before serving, stir in chopped fresh basil leaves for brightness and serve hot with extra Parmesan if desired.
Enjoy every swirly bite of your Spaghetti and Meatball Soup! It’s not just food; it’s an experience that will leave your heart—and belly—full!
You Must Know
- This Spaghetti and Meatball Soup is a cozy dish that combines comfort food with a delightful twist
- The aroma of herbs simmering in the broth will make your kitchen feel like an Italian bistro
- It’s perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a hug in a bowl
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the meatballs before simmering them in broth. Cook pasta separately to avoid mushiness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition. You can also swap traditional pasta for gluten-free options.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat on the stove, adding water if the soup thickens too much.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- The secret to juicy meatballs is not overmixing the meat; gentle hands make tender bites
- Always taste your broth before adding salt to avoid over-seasoning
- Lastly, let the soup rest for 10 minutes after cooking; this allows flavors to meld beautifully
Cooking this Spaghetti and Meatball Soup always reminds me of family gatherings where laughter mingled with delicious aromas wafting through the air. sweet autumn dessert unique appetizer option.
FAQ
Can I use frozen meatballs for Spaghetti and Meatball Soup?
Yes, frozen meatballs are convenient and can save you time when preparing this dish.
How do I prevent the pasta from getting soggy?
Cook the pasta separately and add it just before serving for optimal texture.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap meatballs for plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth for flavor.
Spaghetti and Meatball Soup
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Spaghetti and Meatball Soup is a heartwarming dish that combines tender meatballs, savory broth, and delightful pasta in one cozy bowl. Perfect for chilly evenings, this soup evokes nostalgia with each flavorful spoonful. Easy to prepare, it’s an instant crowd-pleaser that brings families together around the dinner table. Get ready to savor a delicious experience that feels like a warm hug!
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) whole tomatoes
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 8 oz thin spaghetti or broken regular spaghetti
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs (1 inch in diameter).
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown meatballs on all sides; remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onions until translucent. Add crushed tomatoes and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
- Return meatballs to the pot and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Stir in spaghetti during the last 10 minutes of cooking until tender.
- Add chopped basil just before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 675mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
