Name: Creamy Italian Meatball Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 24 meatballs; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); 4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

This Creamy Italian Meatball Soup is the kind of dish that makes you want to linger at the dinner table a little longer. Rich, velvety broth hugs tender meatballs, fresh vegetables, and just enough herbs to warm every spoonful. It’s hearty enough to stand on its own but also feels comforting in the most homestyle way.

Imagine a bowl filled with perfectly seasoned meatballs simmered gently in a creamy tomato-based broth, balanced with hints of garlic, basil, and Parmesan. The texture is luscious, the aroma inviting, and the flavors melt together in a way that feels like an Italian grandmother’s hug in a bowl. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy weeknight dinner or as the star of a gathering, this soup has a way of pleasing everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Italian Meatball Soup

You’ll love this soup because it manages to be both indulgent and wholesome. The creamy broth adds richness without being heavy, and the meatballs offer a satisfying bite that balances beautifully with the herbs and vegetables. It’s also a versatile recipe that can be made ahead of time, stored, and reheated without losing its charm. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means fewer dishes to wash afterward.

What Kind of Meatballs Work Best in This Soup?

Homemade meatballs are always the most flavorful option, especially when made with a blend of beef and pork for extra juiciness. But if you’re short on time, high-quality frozen or pre-made meatballs work wonderfully as well. Just make sure they’re tender and not overly dense, so they absorb the flavors of the broth while holding their shape during cooking. If you’d like a lighter version, turkey or chicken meatballs are excellent alternatives.

Ingredients for the Creamy Italian Meatball Soup

Every ingredient in this recipe contributes to creating a balance of comfort and flavor. The meatballs are the star, but the creamy broth and aromatic vegetables build the soul of the dish. You’ll find that the list is simple, yet each component is essential to making this soup taste so rich and inviting.

Meatballs – the heart of the dish, tender and flavorful, they soak up the broth beautifully.
Olive oil – for sautéing and adding that subtle Mediterranean flavor.
Onion – brings sweetness and depth as the base of the soup.
Garlic – adds warmth and aromatic richness.
Carrots – lend a slight sweetness and hearty texture.
Celery – provides balance and a savory undertone.
Tomatoes – for a bright, tangy contrast to the cream.
Chicken broth – creates a savory base that carries all the flavors.
Heavy cream – the element that turns the broth velvety and indulgent.
Italian seasoning – ties everything together with herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
Parmesan cheese – adds salty nuttiness and body to the soup.
Fresh basil – for a fragrant, finishing touch.
Salt and pepper – to season everything perfectly.

How To Make the Creamy Italian Meatball Soup

Step 1: Sear the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add the meatballs and sear them until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside; they will finish cooking in the soup.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same pot, sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened. This step builds depth and aroma for the broth.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the tomatoes and pour in the chicken broth. Simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Simmer the Meatballs

Return the meatballs to the pot and let them simmer gently in the broth until fully cooked through and tender.

Step 5: Stir in the Cream

Lower the heat and slowly add the heavy cream, stirring constantly. This will transform the broth into a silky, creamy base.

Step 6: Season and Finish

Add Italian seasoning, grated Parmesan, and fresh basil. Taste, adjust with salt and pepper, and let the soup rest a few minutes before serving.

Serving and Storing Creamy Italian Meatball Soup

This soup is best enjoyed hot, ladled generously into deep bowls and sprinkled with extra Parmesan or a few fresh basil leaves. It comfortably feeds about 6 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or small gathering. The cream and meatballs make it hearty enough to be the main dish, but it can also serve as a rich starter for a larger meal.

If you have leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and you can reheat it gently on the stove, stirring occasionally to keep the cream smooth. For longer storage, freeze without the cream added, then stir in the cream after reheating.

What to Serve With Creamy Italian Meatball Soup?

Garlic Bread

Warm, crispy garlic bread is a natural partner, perfect for soaking up the creamy broth.

Side Salad

A light green salad with balsamic vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.

Roasted Vegetables

Simple roasted zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers add color and variety to the meal.

Crusty Artisan Bread

A rustic loaf, torn into chunks, makes every spoonful more satisfying.

Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil bring a bright Italian complement to the soup.

Antipasto Platter

Serve alongside olives, marinated artichokes, and cured meats for a fuller Italian spread.

Roasted Potatoes

Crispy roasted baby potatoes with herbs make the meal even heartier.

Bruschetta

Toasted bread topped with tomato and basil offers a refreshing contrast to the creaminess of the soup.

Want More Soup Ideas?

If you love this Creamy Italian Meatball Soup, you’ll probably enjoy these other comforting favorites from Janet Dishes:

• Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup with rich cheesy flavors and hearty sausage.
• Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque for a luxurious, restaurant-style soup at home.
• Vegan Creamy Mushroom Ramen if you want a plant-based bowl with bold flavors.
• Tuscan Chicken Pasta that blends the coziness of pasta with creamy sauce.
• Zucchini Lasagna for another Italian-inspired comfort dish.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go with beef and pork meatballs, or did you try turkey instead? Did you add extra Parmesan or keep it light?

I always love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or share your tips so we can all cook smarter together.

Explore beautifully curated recipes on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to favorites.

Conclusion

Creamy Italian Meatball Soup is more than just a meal, it’s a hug in a bowl. With tender meatballs, a velvety broth, and fragrant herbs, it’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again. Whether served with crusty bread or a fresh salad, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite.