Get ready to warm up with a bowl of comforting, hearty goodness! Meatball soup is a classic recipe that never goes out of style. The combination of tender meatballs and flavorful broth is a match made in heaven. And the best part? You can customize it to your taste by adding your favorite herbs and spices.
Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and Italian-inspired, or something bold and spicy, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 delicious meatball soup recipes that are sure to become a new family favorite. From comforting beef and barley to spicy Korean-style dumplings, there’s something for everyone.
So grab a spoon and let’s dive in!
Classic Italian Meatball Soup
This hearty soup is a staple of Italian cuisine, filled with tender meatballs, vegetables, and pasta in a rich tomato broth. A comforting and satisfying meal perfect for a cold winter’s day.
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 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 ounces pasta of your choice (e.g., elbow macaroni or small shells)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, onion, and garlic 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, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add meatballs to the pot and cook for 10-15 minutes.
6. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and add to the soup.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Swedish Meatball Soup with Dill
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Swedish-inspired goodness! This hearty soup is packed with tender meatballs, fresh dill, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 8 oz. egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix ground beef, flour, egg, milk, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a bowl until combined.
3. Form into small meatballs and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in butter until softened.
5. Add beef broth, meatballs, and dill to the pot. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
6. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions.
7. Serve soup with cooked noodles and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Mexican Meatball Soup
Spicy Mexican Meatball Soup Recipe
This hearty soup combines tender beef meatballs with a flavorful broth featuring chipotle peppers and creamy half-and-half, perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly day. With its bold spices and textures, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup half-and-half
– 8 ounces tortellini (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, chili powder, and cumin. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, chipotle peppers, and half-and-half. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.
5. Add meatballs and tortellini (if using). Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and your choice of toppings (such as shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, or crushed tortilla chips).
Crockpot Turkey Meatball Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Crockpot Turkey Meatball Soup! This hearty recipe is perfect for a chilly day, and it’s easy to prepare using your trusty crockpot.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your crockpot to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, oats, Parmesan cheese, egg, and olive oil. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Form the mixture into small meatballs (about 20-25).
4. Place the meatballs in the crockpot with the chopped onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and basil.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Greek Lemon Meatball Soup (Avgolemono Style)
This classic Greek soup is a comforting and flavorful treat that combines tender meatballs, tangy lemon juice, and fluffy egg-based broth. Serve with a sprinkle of parsley and a side of warm pita for a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 lemon, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix meatball ingredients in a bowl and shape into small balls.
3. Bake meatballs for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, lemon juice, and olive oil. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add cooked meatballs to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Stir in beaten eggs and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Asian-Inspired Pork Meatball Soup
Warm up with a flavorful and comforting bowl of pork meatballs swimming in a savory broth infused with Asian-inspired flavors. This recipe combines the richness of pork with the brightness of ginger, garlic, and soy sauce for a delightful twist on traditional soup.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine pork, panko, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well with hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high. Add meatballs and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
6. Add chicken broth, water, and green onions to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Vegetable-Packed Meatball Minestrone
This hearty minestrone soup recipe combines tender meatballs with a colorful medley of vegetables, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as cherry tomatoes, zucchini, bell peppers, carrots)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, onion, and garlic in a bowl.
3. Form into meatballs (about 12-15) and place on a baking sheet.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, diced tomatoes, mixed vegetables, and oregano.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
7. Add cooked meatballs and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes.
Moroccan Lamb Meatball Soup with Chickpeas
Warm up with this aromatic and flavorful Moroccan-inspired soup, featuring tender lamb meatballs and creamy chickpeas in a richly spiced broth. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a comforting pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb
– 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 black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Mix lamb, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Form into small meatballs (about 20).
3. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic, cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and chickpeas. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheesy Meatball Tortellini Soup
Elevate your soup game with this rich and satisfying recipe, featuring tender meatballs, flavorful tortellini, and a velvety cheese sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8-10 cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion until browned, breaking up meat with a spoon.
3. Add garlic, broth, tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Simmer for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare tortellini according to package instructions.
5. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Add heavy cream and cooked tortellini. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Coconut Meatball Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful Thai-inspired soup, packed with juicy meatballs, crunchy vegetables, and a rich coconut broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork or chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Mix meatball ingredients in a bowl; shape into small balls. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add bell pepper and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Pour in broth and coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
5. Add meatballs to the pot and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
6. Season with soy sauce and fish sauce (if using). Serve hot, garnished with cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Beef and Barley Meatball Soup
Warm up with this comforting soup that combines tender beef meatballs, creamy barley, and savory vegetables. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 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 whole barley
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix ground beef, oats, egg, cheese, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Form into meatballs and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
5. Add beef broth, barley, carrot, and celery. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until barley is tender.
6. Add meatballs and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
French Onion Meatball Soup
Warm up with a rich and flavorful French Onion Meatball Soup that combines the classic flavors of caramelized onions, beef broth, and savory meatballs. This comforting soup is perfect for a chilly evening or as a quick pick-me-up any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Caramelize the onions in butter over medium heat for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
2. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
3. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
4. Bake meatballs for 15-18 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Combine the caramelized onions, beef broth, and wine (if using). Bring to a simmer.
6. Add the cooked meatballs to the soup and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Chicken Parmesan Meatball Soup
This comforting soup combines the flavors of chicken parmesan with homemade meatballs, creating a satisfying and filling meal perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs and bake for 15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
5. Add crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and meatballs to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat and let soup cook for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spanish Albondigas Soup with Saffron
Warm up with this classic Spanish soup, infused with the subtle flavor of saffron and tender meatballs (albondigas). A hearty and comforting bowl to enjoy on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef and pork mixture (or ground turkey/chicken)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine meat mixture, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
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, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add saffron mixture and stir to combine.
5. Add chicken broth, water, and baked meatballs. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Korean Dumpling-Style Meatball Soup
This hearty soup is a staple of Korean cuisine, filled with flavorful meatballs and a rich broth. This recipe makes a big batch perfect for sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 cups water
– Noodles or rice, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, scallions, garlic, Gochujang, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
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 broth and water. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low.
6. Add the meatballs and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
7. Serve with noodles or rice.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup
This hearty soup is a twist on the classic Italian wedding tradition, where small meatballs and vegetables simmer together in a rich chicken broth. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 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. Do not overmix.
3. Form into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place the meatballs in the slow cooker. Add crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Fire-Roasted Tomato Meatball Soup
Warm up with this hearty and flavorful soup that combines the sweetness of roasted tomatoes with the savory goodness of meatballs. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or as a comforting meal to share with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup fire-roasted tomatoes (see note)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs and bake on a sheet pan for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. In a large pot, combine diced tomatoes, fire-roasted tomatoes, chicken broth, and baked meatballs. Simmer over medium heat for 20-25 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Hungarian Paprika Meatball Soup with Sour Cream
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines the richness of meatballs with the creaminess of sour cream, all infused with the warm spices of paprika. This traditional Hungarian dish is perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 8 ounces sour cream
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs and place on a baking sheet. 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. Stir in sour cream and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to warm up with these 18 hearty meatball soup recipes! From classic Italian flavors to spicy Mexican twists, and from Greek lemony goodness to Moroccan lamb-based soups, there’s something for everyone. Try cooking with turkey, pork, beef, or chicken for a protein-packed meal. Add some veggies, herbs, and spices to create a deliciously comforting bowl of goodness. Whether you’re in the mood for something creamy and cheesy or light and zesty, these meatball soup recipes will satisfy your cravings.