Hearty & Easy Spaghetti and Meatball Soup: Your New Favorite Comfort Meal!
Spaghetti and Meatball Soup – Everyone’s favorite classic comfort food reimagined as a soul-warming soup! This is a delightfully fun and incredibly quick way to enjoy pasta in a simple yet satisfying dinner.
There’s a timeless debate among food lovers: Is soup a year-round staple, or a dish reserved exclusively for the colder months? For many, the crisp embrace of autumn and the chilly breath of winter signal the prime season for a steaming bowl of comfort. As soon as the nights turn cool, my kitchen transforms into a haven for warm and cozy culinary creations. From a bubbling crock pot potato soup to hearty stews, I’m constantly on the lookout for dishes that bring warmth and cheer to the dinner table. There’s just something inherently inviting about a bowl of hot soup on a brisk evening.
One of the enduring joys of soup for me is the ritual of dipping. There’s truly nothing quite like tearing off a piece of good, crusty bread and soaking it in a rich, flavorful broth. While cornbread is my go-to companion for a robust chili, a classic, rustic loaf with a sturdy crust is absolutely essential for a truly exceptional soup experience. It adds texture, absorbs flavor, and makes every spoonful feel like a delightful embrace.
Transforming a Classic: The Magic of Spaghetti and Meatball Soup
So, what could be a better dinner idea than taking the beloved classic – spaghetti and meatballs – and reimagining it as a comforting, easy-to-eat soup? This ingenious twist elevates a family favorite into an even more approachable and satisfying meal. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the deep, familiar flavors it delivers. While homemade meatballs undoubtedly lend an extra special touch, don’t hesitate to use quality frozen meatballs if you’re short on time or simply prefer a quicker preparation. Either way, a wonderfully comforting bowl of soup awaits, promising to warm you from the inside out.
My love for meatballs knows no bounds, regardless of their culinary origin! Whether they boast an exotic Asian flair, like these delightful Peanut Chicken Meatballs, or embody the traditional Italian style, I’m always eager to savor them. Meatballs were a consistent presence throughout my childhood, appearing in various forms – as tempting appetizers, a central component of dinner, or, of course, lovingly tossed with pasta. You name it, I enjoyed it!
Homemade Meatballs: The Heart of Your Soup
Italian meatball soup is another personal favorite, primarily because of its straightforward preparation and incredible flavor payoff. If you share my passion for homemade meatballs, then prepare yourself – this spaghetti and meatball soup is destined to become your new culinary obsession. It comes together remarkably quickly, making it a perfect solution for a flavorful weeknight dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste or comfort.
Tips for Perfect Meatballs and Quick Preparation
One of the best time-saving strategies for this recipe is to prepare your meatballs in advance. You can make them over the weekend and store them in the refrigerator or freezer, ready to be added to your soup when dinner time rolls around. This simple step means you can have a delicious, homemade meal on the table in mere minutes on a busy weeknight. It’s crucial to ensure your meatballs are fully cooked before incorporating them into the soup. They will only simmer in the broth for about 6-7 minutes, just long enough for the spaghetti noodles to cook through and for the meatballs to absorb some of that rich soup flavor.
A Family Favorite Reimagined and Evolved
This recipe holds a special place in my heart. I first shared it years ago, born out of a desire to please a particularly picky eater in my household. A lot has changed since those days, but one thing remains constant: my family’s unwavering affection for this soup. It truly offers a fresh perspective on the classic spaghetti and meatballs, transforming it into a delightful, spoon-friendly meal that’s both engaging and deeply comforting. It’s an innovative way to enjoy familiar flavors in a new and exciting format, proving that sometimes, the best recipes are those that cleverly adapt to suit new needs and tastes.
Why This Soup Deserves a Spot on Your Menu
When you’re mapping out your menu for the week, be sure to carve out a spot for this incredible spaghetti and meatball soup. Not only will your family absolutely adore the hearty, familiar flavors, but you’ll also appreciate just how incredibly easy and straightforward it is to prepare. It’s the perfect blend of deliciousness and convenience, making it an ideal choice for any busy household looking for a satisfying meal without a lot of fuss. It delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, ensuring a successful dinner every time.
Customizing Your Spaghetti and Meatball Soup
While the recipe below offers a fantastic base, don’t hesitate to make this soup your own with a few simple customizations. Want to add more vegetables? Sauté some finely diced carrots and celery along with the onion and garlic for added nutrients and flavor depth. Prefer a different type of pasta? Small pasta shapes like ditalini, orzo, or even broken up lasagna noodles can work wonderfully. For an extra layer of richness, stir in a swirl of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese right before serving. A sprinkle of fresh mozzarella or a dollop of ricotta cheese could also elevate the experience. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different Italian seasoning blends or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. The beauty of soup is its versatility!
Meal Prep & Storage Tips for Busy Weeks
This spaghetti and meatball soup is also an excellent candidate for meal prepping. As mentioned, cooking the meatballs in advance is a huge time-saver. You can even prepare the entire soup ahead of time. Simply cook the broth base, and when it’s time to serve, heat it up and add the cooked spaghetti and meatballs for the last few minutes. This prevents the pasta from becoming too soft if it sits in the liquid for too long. Leftovers store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the broth and meatballs separately. When ready to enjoy, thaw, heat the broth, and cook fresh spaghetti directly in the soup or add pre-cooked pasta. This ensures optimal texture and flavor every time.
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Spaghetti and Meatball Soup
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Equipment
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Pot and Pan Set
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Small Sheet Pan
Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 42 oz chicken broth
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 6 oz thin spaghetti, broken in half
- 1 pound mini meatballs, cooked
- salt and pepper to taste
Mini Meatballs
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
Instructions
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In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, and sauté until they are soft and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
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Pour in the chicken broth, marinara sauce, and Italian Seasoning. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
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Add the broken spaghetti and cooked mini meatballs to the simmering soup. Cook for 6-7 minutes, or until the spaghetti noodles are al dente (tender with a slight bite). Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
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Ladle the hot soup into bowls. For an irresistible finish, top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh basil before serving.
To Make Mini Meatballs (if making from scratch)
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In a medium bowl, thoroughly mix together the ground beef, bread crumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and large egg. Once combined, form the mixture into small, bite-sized mini meatballs. Place them on a small sheet pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 15 minutes, or until cooked through and lightly browned, adjusting cooking time based on their size.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
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