Italian-Style Spaghetti Soup with Homemade Meatballs
This hearty Italian-inspired soup combines juicy, tender meatballs with al dente spaghetti in a rich tomato-herb broth. It’s cozy, family-friendly, and perfect for a winter lunch or dinner. Simple, wholesome, and bursting with Mediterranean flavors.
Time
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: ~55 minutes
Ingredients
For the meatballs
500 g ground beef or a mix of beef & pork
½ cup breadcrumbs
¼ cup grated Parmesan
1 small egg
1 garlic clove, minced
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp dried oregano
For the soup
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (400 g) crushed tomatoes
4 cups chicken or vegetable stock
1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or mix of oregano, thyme, basil)
100 g spaghetti, broken into 2-inch pieces
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
Grated Parmesan for serving
Instructions
1. Make meatballs
In a bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix gently and shape into small 1-inch meatballs. Set aside.
2. Prepare the soup base
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrot, and celery until softened (~5 minutes). Add garlic and cook 30 seconds more.
3. Add tomatoes & stock
Pour in crushed tomatoes and stock. Stir in dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Cook meatballs in soup
Carefully add meatballs to the simmering soup. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, until meatballs are cooked through.
5. Add spaghetti
Stir in broken spaghetti pieces. Cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, until pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Finish & serve
Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley and grated Parmesan.
Tips for Best Results
Use freshly grated Parmesan for authentic flavor
Don’t overmix meatballs—keep them tender
Break spaghetti into 2-inch pieces for easier soup eating
Simmer gently to prevent meatballs from falling apart
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes. Freeze meatballs separately or together with the soup. Cook pasta just before serving if freezing soup alone.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Replace meatballs with chickpea or lentil balls. Use vegetable stock.
Can I use leftover spaghetti?
It’s best to cook pasta fresh; adding pre-cooked spaghetti may become mushy.
Can I make meatballs ahead?
Yes. Make and bake them, then add to soup when ready.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 28 g
Fat: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fiber: 5 g