Cozy up with a warm, comforting bowl of meatball soup this winter! There’s nothing quite like a hearty, slow-cooked meal to bring people together and fill our bellies. And what better way to do that than with a rich, flavorful soup packed with tender meatballs? From classic Italian recipes to bold international twists, we’ve rounded up 18 mouth-watering meatball soup recipes to try this season.
From comforting, creamy soups to spicy and savory ones, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional Italian dish or a global culinary adventure, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
So go ahead, grab a spoon, and let’s dive into the world of meatball soup!
Classic Italian Meatball Soup
Warm up with a bowl of this classic Italian soup, filled with tender meatballs, vegetables, and rich broth. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a comforting meal for the family.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and cooked meatballs. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Thai Meatball Soup
This Spicy Thai Meatball Soup recipe combines the flavors of Thailand with the comfort of a warm, hearty soup. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Mix ground pork, breadcrumbs, cilantro, garlic, ginger, fish sauce, and red pepper flakes in a bowl.
2. Form into meatballs and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, water, soy sauce, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add cooked meatballs to the soup and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creamy Tomato Meatball Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that combines tender meatballs with a rich tomato broth, finished with a hint of cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, onion, and garlic in a bowl. Form into meatballs and place on a baking sheet.
2. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In a large pot, combine crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Add the cooked meatballs to the soup and stir gently.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Swedish Meatball Soup with Dill
Warm up on a chilly day with this hearty and flavorful Swedish-inspired soup. Tender meatballs, fresh dill, and comforting potatoes create a delightful combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon milk
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine ground beef, flour, egg, milk, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into small meatballs (about 1-inch diameter). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, potatoes, and baked meatballs. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in butter and chopped dill. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mexican Albondigas Soup
Warm up with this comforting, flavorful soup featuring tender meatballs and vegetables in a rich broth. Perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Form into small meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, water, diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Add meatballs to the soup and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Greek Avgolemono Meatball Soup
Greek Avgolemono Meatball Soup Recipe
This traditional Greek soup is a hearty and comforting meal that combines the rich flavors of chicken broth, lemon juice, and egg with tender meatballs. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Form into meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, lemon juice, and white wine (if using).
6. Add the meatballs to the pot and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
7. Stir in chopped parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Meatball Soup
Warm up with this aromatic and flavorful Moroccan-inspired soup, featuring tender meatballs infused with the spices of the ancient trade routes. This hearty soup is perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix meatball ingredients in a bowl and shape into balls.
3. Bake meatballs for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until softened.
5. Add broth, tomatoes, honey, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
6. Add cooked meatballs and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors meld together.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Vietnamese Pho-Inspired Meatball Soup
This hearty soup combines the bold flavors of Vietnam with the comfort of a warm bowl. Inspired by the popular street food, this recipe simplifies the process to create a delicious and easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Combine meatball ingredients in a bowl and mix until just combined. Form into small balls.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine beef broth, rice vinegar, fish sauce, soy sauce, cinnamon, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
3. Add meatballs to the pot and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with scallions and cilantro leaves (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting soup that combines the flavors of meatballs, cheese, and tortellini. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-16 tortellini
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Form into meatballs and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large pot, combine crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, olive oil, and dried basil.
5. Add the cooked meatballs and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Add tortellini and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes or until heated through.
7. Stir in shredded mozzarella cheese until melted.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Slow Cooker Meatball Minestrone
This hearty Italian-inspired soup is a perfect comfort food for a chilly day. With meatballs, vegetables, and pasta all slow-cooked to perfection, it’s a one-pot meal that’s easy to prepare and will become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, onion, and garlic. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs and place in the slow cooker.
4. Add diced tomatoes, kidney beans, pasta, and chicken broth.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Korean Gochujang Meatball Soup
This Korean-inspired soup is a hearty and flavorful twist on traditional meatball soup. The combination of rich gochujang paste, savory beef broth, and tender meatballs will warm your belly and soothe your soul.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons gochujang paste
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves green onions, chopped (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into small meatballs and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large pot, heat beef broth over medium-high heat. Add gochujang paste and stir to combine.
5. Add sliced onion and simmer for 5 minutes.
6. Add cooked meatballs and season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
French Onion Meatball Soup
Warm up with a hearty bowl of French Onion Meatball Soup, a rich and flavorful twist on classic meatball soup.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Form into meatballs (about 20-25).
3. Bake meatballs for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. Add garlic, beef broth, and baked meatballs to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Lemon Orzo Meatball Soup
This refreshing soup combines tender meatballs with a light and zesty lemon broth, served over a bed of creamy orzo pasta. Perfect for a warm and cozy meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 cup orzo pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Mix meatball ingredients in a bowl, then shape into balls and bake for 15-20 minutes.
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken broth, water, lemon juice, and oregano. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Add cooked meatballs and orzo to the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Indian Curry Meatball Soup
This hearty soup combines the comforting flavors of meatballs with the aromatic spices of India. Perfect for a chilly evening, this recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Add carrots, beef broth, diced tomatoes, and baked meatballs. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spinach and Meatball Soup
Warm up with a hearty bowl of spinach and meatball soup, packed with tender beef and flavorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup tomato sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, tomato sauce, and oregano. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.
6. Add meatballs and pasta to the pot. Simmer for an additional 10-12 minutes or until pasta is al dente.
7. Stir in spinach until wilted. Serve hot with Parmesan cheese on top (if desired).
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes.
Turkey Meatball and Wild Rice Soup
A hearty and comforting soup perfect for a chilly evening, featuring tender turkey meatballs and nutty wild rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup wild rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in a little bit of olive oil until tender.
6. Add wild rice, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until rice is tender.
7. Add turkey meatballs to the soup and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes total.
Beef and Barley Meatball Soup
Warm up with a hearty bowl of Beef and Barley Meatball Soup, packed with tender beef meatballs, nutty barley, and aromatic vegetables. This comforting soup is perfect for a chilly day or as a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, oats, egg, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper; mix well.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add beef broth, barley, and diced tomatoes; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until barley is tender.
7. Add meatballs to the soup and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pesto Meatball Soup with Gnocchi
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting and flavorful soup. Rich pesto, tender meatballs, and soft gnocchi come together in a creamy broth that’s sure to satisfy.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup gnocchi
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and Parmesan cheese in a bowl. Form into meatballs.
3. Place meatballs on a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and pesto sauce. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add cooked meatballs to the pot and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
6. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and add to the soup.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Cozy up with these 18 hearty meatball soup recipes! From classic Italian to spicy Thai and creamy tomato, there’s something for everyone. Explore international flavors like Swedish dill, Mexican albondigas, Greek avgolemono, Moroccan spiced, Vietnamese pho-inspired, and more. Try comforting combinations like cheesy tortellini, slow cooker minestrone, or French onion. For a twist, enjoy Korean gochujang, Indian curry, or Italian pesto with gnocchi. These meatball soups are sure to warm your belly and your heart. Get ready to slurp up the comfort!