A rich, velvety tomato-based soup loaded with tender meatballs, al dente pasta, and a splash of cream, this hearty dish brings together the comfort of classic Italian flavors in a warm, satisfying bowl. It’s ideal for cozy evenings or casual dinners when you want something both indulgent and nourishing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Creamy Meatball Pasta Soup is a comforting one-pot meal that combines protein, pasta, and vegetables into a single, satisfying dish. The meatballs add richness, the pasta makes it hearty, and the creamy tomato broth ties everything together beautifully. It’s also customizable, freezer-friendly, and perfect for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- ground beef or turkey
- breadcrumbs
- egg
- dried oregano
- garlic powder
- salt and pepper
- olive oil
- onion, finely chopped
- garlic cloves, minced
- crushed tomatoes
- tomato paste
- chicken broth
- small pasta (like ditalini or elbow)
- heavy cream
- red pepper flakes (optional)
- grated Parmesan cheese
- Italian seasoning
- fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Directions
- In a bowl, mix together the ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Shape into small meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, then remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until soft, about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato paste and crushed tomatoes. Cook for 2 minutes to enhance the flavor.
- Add chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Return the browned meatballs to the pot.
- Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until the pasta is tender and the meatballs are fully cooked.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, red pepper flakes (if using), Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan and fresh herbs.
Servings and timing
Servings: Serves 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace meatballs with plant-based versions or sautéed mushrooms.
- Spicier Version: Add more red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Different Pasta Shapes: Try orzo, mini shells, or fusilli for variety.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative and omit the Parmesan.
- Low-Carb Version: Swap pasta for cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup thickens. This soup also freezes well—store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought meatballs?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked or frozen meatballs to save time. Just add them during the simmering step.
What type of pasta works best for this soup?
Small shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or small shells are ideal as they cook quickly and hold their shape in the soup.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, it can be made a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, it freezes well. Cool completely and store in an airtight container. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
What’s a good substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half, milk with a bit of butter, or a plant-based cream substitute.
Is this soup spicy?
It has a mild kick if red pepper flakes are included, but it’s easy to adjust the spice level to your preference.
Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta and make sure your breadcrumbs and broth are gluten-free as well.
What can I serve with this soup?
A simple green salad or crusty bread pairs well to make it a full meal.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely. Spinach, kale, or carrots can be added during the simmering process.
How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?
Cook the pasta al dente and avoid overcooking. If making ahead, consider cooking the pasta separately and adding it just before serving.
Conclusion
Creamy Meatball Pasta Soup is a comforting, family-friendly dish that brings together bold flavors and cozy textures in every spoonful. Whether you’re making it for a chilly night, meal prepping for the week, or feeding a hungry crowd, this soup delivers satisfaction and flavor in one easy-to-make pot.
Print
Creamy Meatball Pasta Soup
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
A rich, velvety tomato-based soup loaded with tender meatballs, pasta, and a touch of cream, topped with freshly grated Parmesan. Comfort food at its finest in one cozy bowl.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup small pasta (ditalini or elbow)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix and form into small meatballs.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sear the meatballs until browned on all sides, then remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté chopped onion and garlic until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in tomato paste and crushed tomatoes, cooking for 2 minutes to develop flavor.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add meatballs back to the pot.
- Stir in pasta and cook according to package instructions until pasta is tender and meatballs are cooked through.
- Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and Parmesan. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve hot, topped with more Parmesan and fresh herbs.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use ground turkey instead of beef.
- Soup can be made ahead and reheated; pasta may absorb more liquid upon standing.
- Adjust spice level by increasing or omitting red pepper flakes.
- Fresh herbs add a bright finish to the rich soup.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
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