If you’re searching for a cozy, hearty bowl that feels like a warm hug from an old friend, this Chunky Italian Meatball Soup Recipe will quickly become one of your favorites. Bursting with rich flavors from tender Italian meatballs, savory broth, and vibrant vegetables, this soup is the perfect blend of comfort and nutrition. It’s a delightful way to enjoy all the goodness of a classic Italian meal in one satisfying bowl, ready in just 20 minutes and ideal for any day you crave something filling yet wholesome.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Chunky Italian Meatball Soup Recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that come together effortlessly to create a bowl full of vibrant color, wonderful texture, and mouthwatering flavor. Each component plays a part in balancing the heartiness of the meatballs with fresh vegetable brightness and comforting pasta.
- Olive oil: Adds a fruity richness and helps soften the aromatics perfectly.
- Onion: Provides a natural sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- Garlic: Brings that classic Italian flavor punch that wakes up the whole dish.
- Chicken stock: Creates a savory and flavorful base that carries all ingredients beautifully.
- Water: Helps achieve just the right soup consistency without diluting the flavor.
- Diced tomatoes: Add a tangy brightness and vibrant color.
- Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that infuses the soup with herbaceous warmth.
- Italian meatballs: The star of the show, bringing savory, meaty goodness in every bite.
- Orzo or small pasta: Adds heartiness and soaks up the flavorful broth.
- Frozen mixed vegetables: Provide nutrition and a great variety of textures with minimal effort.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty finish that elevates every spoonful.
How to Make Chunky Italian Meatball Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Aromatics
Begin by heating olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial as it builds the flavor foundation for the soup. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds, careful not to let it burn — that irresistible garlicky aroma will start filling your kitchen.
Step 2: Add Liquids and Tomatoes
Next, pour in the chicken stock, water, and the can of diced tomatoes. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil. This bubbling combination is where the soup really starts to come alive, melding savory, tangy, and aromatic notes right from the pan.
Step 3: Add Seasonings, Meatballs, Pasta, and Vegetables
Now it’s time to fold in the Italian seasoning, small Italian meatballs, orzo pasta, and frozen mixed vegetables. These ingredients add layers of flavor and texture, making your Chunky Italian Meatball Soup Recipe a true one-pot wonder. Give everything a good stir so the seasonings and ingredients are evenly combined.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Bring the soup back up to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan and let it simmer gently for 8-10 minutes. This step cooks the pasta perfectly, heats the meatballs through, and allows all the flavors to deepen and mingle in the broth.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and don’t forget to sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving. That final touch of Parmesan melts gently into the steaming soup, adding richness that makes every spoonful pure comfort. Serve hot and dive right in!
How to Serve Chunky Italian Meatball Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A simple garnish can elevate your bowl beautifully. Freshly grated Parmesan is a classic choice, but you could also sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley for a burst of herbal freshness. A drizzle of good quality olive oil adds a luscious finish that complements the soup’s hearty flavors perfectly.
Side Dishes
This soup deserves some fantastic sides to round out your meal. A crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with the warm, savory soup. For a more indulgent option, serve it with warm crusty Italian bread or garlic breadsticks to soak up every last drop of that delicious broth.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress? Serve the Chunky Italian Meatball Soup Recipe in charming rustic bowls or even hollowed-out bread bowls for an eye-catching, cozy presentation. Adding a sprinkle of parmesan crisps or paired with a small charcuterie plate can turn this simple soup into a beautiful centerpiece for any casual dinner.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover soup into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to mingle. Just be sure to keep it chilled to maintain freshness and safety.
Freezing
You can freeze this Chunky Italian Meatball Soup Recipe for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. To avoid texture changes, it’s best to undercook the pasta slightly before freezing and add fresh pasta when reheating if desired.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming without breaking apart the meatballs. If the soup has thickened too much, add a splash of water or stock to restore the perfect consistency. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan before serving to bring back that fresh-from-the-pot taste.
FAQs
Can I use homemade meatballs for the soup?
Absolutely! Homemade meatballs add a personal touch and can be seasoned to your liking. Just make sure they are small and fully cooked before adding to the soup to ensure they heat through properly.
What if I don’t have orzo pasta? What other options work?
No orzo? No problem! Small pasta shapes like ditalini, small shells, or even tiny macaroni work wonderfully and hold up well in the soup without becoming mushy.
Is this soup suitable for freezing with the meatballs inside?
Yes, but it’s best to slightly undercook the pasta or add fresh pasta when reheating to prevent mushiness. The meatballs freeze nicely and retain their texture when gently reheated.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the meatballs with plant-based alternatives or hearty beans, and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. The flavor will still be rich and satisfying.
How spicy is the Chunky Italian Meatball Soup Recipe? Can I adjust it?
This soup is mild and comforting by default, but you can easily increase the heat by adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce based on your preference.
Final Thoughts
This Chunky Italian Meatball Soup Recipe is a true gem for anyone who loves bold flavors combined with hearty ingredients in a quick and easy meal. It’s the kind of soup that brings people together and fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas. If you haven’t tried it yet, I can’t encourage you enough to grab these simple ingredients and whip up this heartwarming bowl today—you’re going to love every spoonful!
Print
Chunky Italian Meatball Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Chunky Italian Meatball Soup is a hearty and comforting dish featuring tender Italian meatballs simmered in a flavorful broth with orzo pasta, diced tomatoes, and mixed vegetables. Enhanced with Italian seasoning and topped with freshly grated parmesan, it’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1 cup water
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound small Italian meatballs
- 3/4 cup orzo or other small pasta
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
Topping
- 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Instructions
- Prepare the Aromatics: In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, being careful to avoid burning it to maintain its flavor.
- Add Liquids and Tomatoes: Pour in the chicken stock, water, and canned diced tomatoes. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a rolling boil to build the soup’s base flavor.
- Add Seasonings, Meatballs, Pasta, and Vegetables: Stir in the Italian seasoning, small Italian meatballs, orzo (or your choice of small pasta), and frozen mixed vegetables. Mix thoroughly to distribute the ingredients evenly throughout the soup.
- Simmer the Soup: Once the soup returns to a boil, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 8-10 minutes, or until the orzo is tender and the meatballs are fully cooked and heated through.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle each serving with freshly grated parmesan cheese. Serve hot for a warming and delicious meal.
Notes
- You can substitute orzo with other small pasta shapes like ditalini or acini di pepe.
- If unavailable, frozen mixed vegetables can be replaced with fresh diced vegetables such as carrots, peas, and green beans.
- For a vegetarian version, replace meatballs with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable stock.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste before serving.
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove.
