When the weather turns chilly, nothing warms your soul quite like a steaming bowl of Spaghetti and Meatball Soup. Picture this: tender meatballs bobbing in a rich, savory broth, mingling with perfectly cooked spaghetti that twirls around your fork like it’s dancing at a pasta party. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, making it impossible to resist. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this soup is the ultimate comfort food that promises to make everyone feel right at home.
Back in my childhood, I remember those lazy Sunday afternoons when my mom would whip up a huge pot of her famous soup. We’d gather around the table, laughter echoing as we slurped noodles and debated which meatball was the best—spoiler alert: they were all amazing! This Spaghetti and Meatball Soup is perfect for those moments when you want to create lasting memories while enjoying an incredible flavor experience.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Spaghetti and Meatball Soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The flavor profile is rich and savory with every spoonful bursting with deliciousness
- Its vibrant colors and hearty ingredients make it visually appealing on any dinner table
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt based on what you have in your pantry!
Ingredients for Spaghetti and Meatball Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for flavorful meatballs that won’t be greasy.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs together while keeping them tender.
Eggs: One egg will do; it’s essential for holding the meatball mixture together.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated adds a nutty flavor that elevates the meatballs.
Spaghetti: Use standard spaghetti or any pasta shape you prefer for a fun twist.
For the Broth:
Canned Tomatoes: Opt for crushed tomatoes for a smooth base full of flavor.
Beef Broth: A rich broth enhances the overall taste; low-sodium options are great too.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics provide depth and richness to the soup.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Spaghetti and Meatball Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—don’t overwork it or you’ll end up with tough meatballs. Form into small balls about one inch in diameter.
Step 2: Brown the Meatballs
Heat a large pot over medium heat with a splash of oil. Work in batches if necessary, adding meatballs to brown them on all sides. This step brings out their flavor while adding texture.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Once all meatballs are browned and set aside, add chopped onion and minced garlic into the same pot. Sauté until fragrant and translucent—about three minutes—scraping up any brown bits from the bottom for extra flavor.
Step 4: Build the Broth
Pour in crushed tomatoes and beef broth into the pot with onions and garlic. Stir well to combine everything before bringing it to a simmer.
Step 5: Add Meatballs and Pasta
Once your broth simmers happily away, return the meatballs back into the pot along with uncooked spaghetti (or your chosen pasta). Cook according to pasta package instructions until al dente—about eight minutes should do it.
Step 6: Serve It Up
Ladle generous portions into bowls garnished with fresh basil or additional Parmesan cheese if desired! Serve hot alongside crusty bread for dipping—trust me; you’ll want that extra crunch!
As you sit down with this comforting bowl of Spaghetti and Meatball Soup, let each bite take you on a delightful journey back to those cherished memories—and maybe create new ones along the way! Enjoy every slurp!
You Must Know
- This delightful Spaghetti and Meatball Soup is not just a cozy comfort dish; it’s a hug in a bowl
- Packed with flavor, this recipe makes dinner planning easier
- Perfect for chilly nights or when you need a pick-me-up, it’s sure to warm your heart and home
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the meatballs in a large pot to lock in flavor. Then, sauté onions and garlic before adding crushed tomatoes. Finally, cook the spaghetti right in the soup for extra flavor and convenience.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in turkey or veggie meatballs for a lighter option. Add fresh herbs like basil or spinach for extra nutrition. You can also sprinkle some parmesan cheese on top for a gourmet finish.
Storing & Reheating
To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to maintain consistency.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect meatballs, use bread crumbs soaked in milk for moisture
- Don’t rush the browning process; it adds depth of flavor
- To enhance taste, let the soup simmer longer for richer flavors
Sharing this recipe reminds me of my cousin’s dinner party last winter when everyone declared it the “soup of champions,” leaving nothing but empty bowls and happy faces around the table.
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Spaghetti and Meatball Soup?
To make Spaghetti and Meatball Soup, you will need ground beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic, onion, canned tomatoes, chicken broth, and spaghetti. Fresh basil and parsley enhance the flavor significantly. For seasoning, include salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. This combination of ingredients creates a hearty dish that warms the soul.
How long does it take to cook Spaghetti and Meatball Soup?
Cooking Spaghetti and Meatball Soup takes about 30 minutes for preparation and approximately 45 minutes for cooking. You will spend around 15 minutes mixing the meatballs while simmering the soup base. Once everything is combined, allow it to cook until the meatballs are tender and the spaghetti is perfectly al dente. This timing ensures a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Can I make Spaghetti and Meatball Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Spaghetti and Meatball Soup ahead of time. The flavors deepen as it sits in the fridge overnight, making it even more delicious the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth to maintain the soup’s consistency and warmth.
What variations can I try with Spaghetti and Meatball Soup?
You can experiment with various ingredients in your Spaghetti and Meatball Soup. Consider using turkey or chicken instead of beef for lighter meatballs. Add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition. You could also use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary preferences while still enjoying this comforting dish.
Conclusion for Spaghetti and Meatball Soup :
Spaghetti and Meatball Soup is a delightful twist on a classic favorite that combines rich flavors in one comforting bowl. With easy preparation steps and simple ingredients, this dish can be enjoyed any day of the week. Whether you choose to make it ahead or customize it with different meats or veggies, it remains a family-friendly option that pleases everyone at your table. Enjoy this hearty meal as a warm embrace on chilly nights!
Spaghetti and Meatball Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Spaghetti and Meatball Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings. This hearty dish features tender meatballs in a rich, savory broth, accompanied by perfectly cooked spaghetti. Ideal for family dinners or gatherings with friends, each spoonful promises warmth and nostalgia, evoking cherished memories of shared meals. Easy to prepare and customizable based on pantry staples, this soup brings joy to every table.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix gently and form into 1-inch meatballs.
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat and brown meatballs on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté chopped onion and minced garlic in the same pot until fragrant.
- Add crushed tomatoes and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
- Return meatballs to the pot along with uncooked spaghetti. Cook until pasta is al dente per package instructions.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil or additional Parmesan cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 2 cups)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
