Spaghetti and Meatball Soup Recipe

I absolutely love this Spaghetti and Meatball Soup Recipe because it brings all the comforting flavors of a classic Italian dinner into one easy, cozy bowl. It’s perfect when you want something warm and satisfying but not too heavy. When I first tried this soup, I was amazed at how the meatballs stay tender and the broth is perfectly flavorful without needing hours of simmering.

You’ll find that this recipe works beautifully for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with something heartwarming but simple. Plus, it combines the nostalgic joy of spaghetti and meatballs with the ease of a one-pot soup — what’s not to love?

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Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together naturally to create a delicious, well-balanced soup. I recommend using fresh garlic and herbs when you can—they really brighten up the broth and meatballs.

• Chicken Broth: Low sodium is best so you can control the saltiness of your soup.
• Water: Balances the broth concentration and helps with cooking the pasta.
• Garlic: Divided to layer the flavor both in the broth and meatballs.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds a pop of fresh herbal taste; keep it chopped finely.
• Onion: Use half chopped and split to infuse sweetness and depth throughout the soup and meatballs.
• Tomato Sauce: A good quality or homemade marinara shines here—adds acidity and richness.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Optional but I love the slight kick that wakes up the broth.
• Kosher Salt and Fresh Pepper: Essential seasonings to bring it all together.
• Dry Spaghetti: Break it into smaller pieces for easier eating in soup form.
• Ground Turkey: I use 93% lean for juicy meatballs, but 99% lean works if you want it healthier.
• Egg: Helps bind meatballs without making them dense.
• Seasoned Breadcrumbs: Keeps the meatballs tender and perfectly textured.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: Adds umami into meatballs and is perfect sprinkled on top.
• Fresh Basil: Stir in at the end for a fragrant, fresh finish.

Variations

I like to customize this Spaghetti and Meatball Soup Recipe depending on what we have on hand or to cater to different tastes. You can easily adjust the flavor and texture to make it your own.

• Ground Meat Swap: I once made this with ground chicken and it still turned out juicy and delicious—great if turkey isn’t your thing.
• Vegetable Boost: Adding chopped spinach or kale toward the end really amps up the nutrition without changing flavor much.
• Spicy Twist: If you like heat, I add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce—my family loves the warmth it gives.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free pasta for friends or family with sensitivities.

How to Make Spaghetti and Meatball Soup Recipe

Step 1: Build the Flavorful Broth

Start by heating a large pot over high heat and adding chicken broth, water, one clove of crushed garlic, half of the chopped parsley, a quarter of the chopped onion, tomato sauce, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and freshly ground black pepper. Bring this to a boil and then reduce to a simmer for about five minutes. This simmer helps all those flavors meld together beautifully without waiting hours, so don’t skip it!

Step 2: Mix and Form Meatballs

While the broth simmers, combine the ground turkey, grated Parmesan, egg, remaining garlic, remaining onion, remaining parsley, seasoned breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix gently until everything is just combined—too much mixing can make the meatballs tough. Then roll into small 1-inch meatballs; you should get about 36. I love making these small because they cook super quickly and you get a great distribution of meatball in every bite of soup.

Step 3: Cook Meatballs and Pasta

Drop the meatballs carefully into the simmering broth. Cook for about 3 minutes so they start to firm up. Then add the broken-up spaghetti to the pot and cook according to the package directions (usually around 8-10 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from clumping. The meatballs finish cooking right alongside the pasta, which keeps everything tender and juicy.

Step 4: Final Touches and Serve

Once the pasta is tender, stir in the fresh basil. Taste your soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with an extra sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top—I always keep some on the table for guests to add more if they want. Enjoy!

How to Serve Spaghetti and Meatball Soup Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping this soup with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a little extra chopped basil or parsley for color and brightness. A drizzle of good olive oil on top adds richness. Sometimes, I even sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat right at the table, so everyone can adjust spice level to their liking.

Side Dishes

This soup is great on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, I often serve it with crusty garlic bread or a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. These sides keep things light and fresh without competing with the hearty soup flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I sometimes serve the soup in mini bread bowls—think small sourdough bowls hollowed out to hold the soup. It looks impressive and lets guests eat the bowl afterward! Another fun way is to place a few meatballs on top of each bowl with fresh basil leaves for a beautiful focal point.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

When storing leftovers, I put the soup in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. I usually store the pasta separately if I have time because it can get a bit mushy soaking in the broth over time.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this soup before without the pasta, and it reheats beautifully. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and add fresh pasta while reheating so it stays perfect.

Reheating

I reheat leftover Spaghetti and Meatball Soup Recipe gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick. If pasta was stored separately, add it in just before serving to avoid overcooking.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Spaghetti and Meatball Soup Recipe has become one of my go-to meals for busy nights when I want something comforting but quick. It’s a wonderful blend of familiar flavors with a fresh twist that always leaves everyone happy and satisfied. I truly think you’ll enjoy making and sharing it with your loved ones as much as I do—it’s like a warm hug in a bowl!

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