Description
This hearty Italian Meatball Soup combines juicy meatballs, tender fusilli pasta, and a flavorful tomato-based broth. Packed with aromatic herbs, fresh basil, and a hint of spice, it’s a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for any time of year. Serve it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of indulgence!
Ingredients
- Soup Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes (fire-roasted recommended)
- 4 cups beef broth (add more if needed)
- 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped small
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pasta and Add-ins:
- 1.5 cups uncooked fusilli pasta
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, torn or chopped
- Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
- Meatballs:
- 1 lb meatballs (store-bought or homemade; see note)
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare Meatballs (If Needed):
If making meatballs from scratch, prepare them using your preferred recipe. Store-bought or previously prepared meatballs also work well for this recipe.
2️⃣ Sauté Aromatics:
Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3️⃣ Build the Soup Base:
Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, red bell pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes to the pot.
Stir well, then add the meatballs.
4️⃣ Cook the Pasta:
Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a boil.
Once boiling, add the uncooked fusilli pasta and stir to prevent sticking.
5️⃣ Simmer:
Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar.
Let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes or until the pasta is cooked through, stirring occasionally.
If the soup thickens too much, add a bit more beef broth to maintain a brothy consistency.
6️⃣ Finish with Fresh Herbs:
Stir in the fresh basil.
Taste the soup and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
7️⃣ Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Meatball Tip: Use homemade meatballs for a fresh touch, or frozen/store-bought for convenience. To save time, pre-cooked meatballs can be added directly to the soup.
- Make It Your Own: Substitute fusilli with another pasta shape like penne or macaroni, or add in extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach for a nutritional boost.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-6