Spaghetti and Meatball Soup Recipe

I absolutely love this Spaghetti and Meatball Soup Recipe because it combines all the cozy warmth of a classic Italian meal into one easy, comforting bowl. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re just craving something homey, this soup feels like a big hug in a bowl. The juicy turkey meatballs swimming in a garlicky tomato broth with tender spaghetti make every spoonful deeply satisfying.

When I first tried this recipe, I was blown away by how approachable it is—no fancy tricks, just straightforward ingredients coming together beautifully. Plus, it’s quick to make, so you don’t have to wait hours for that comforting dinner. You’ll find that this Spaghetti and Meatball Soup Recipe works perfectly for busy weeknights or casual gatherings where everyone wants a filling meal without the fuss.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Spaghetti and Meatball Soup Recipe plays a special role in building layers of flavor, creating a soup that’s hearty but balanced. Pick fresh herbs and good quality broth for the best taste, and don’t skip the Parmesan—it really elevates the meatballs.

• Chicken broth: Choose low sodium so you can control the saltiness in the soup.
• Water: Helps dilute to a perfect broth consistency without overpowering flavors.
• Garlic: Adds aromatic depth—divide between broth and meatballs for maximum punch.
• Fresh parsley: Brightens the dish with herbal freshness and a pop of color.
• Onion: Balanced flavor; half goes in broth, half in meatballs for that savory note.
• Tomato sauce: I like using a quick marinara for rich tomato flavor; use your favorite!
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional but gives a subtle spicy kick I adore.
• Kosher salt and fresh pepper: Essential for seasoning—taste and adjust as you go.
• Dry spaghetti: Broken into bite-sized pieces, it cooks right in the soup for perfect texture.
• Ground turkey: Lean protein keeps the meatballs tender but healthier than beef.
• Large egg: Binds the meatball ingredients perfectly.
• Seasoned breadcrumbs: Adds structure and prevents meatballs from getting dense.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Boosts umami flavor inside the meatballs and as a garnish.
• Fresh chopped basil: Stirred in at the end for fresh herbal aroma and flavor.

Variations

I like to mix things up sometimes with this Spaghetti and Meatball Soup Recipe, so feel free to get creative! A simple swap or addition can tailor the soup to your mood or dietary needs.

• Meat variation: I’ve swapped turkey for lean beef or even Italian sausage when I wanted a richer flavor, and it’s just as delicious.
• Vegetarian twist: Try lentil or chickpea meatballs for plant-based goodness that doesn’t skimp on taste.
• Spice it up: Adding extra crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika gives it a smoky heat I love on cold days.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta so everyone can enjoy without worry.

How to Make Spaghetti and Meatball Soup Recipe

Step 1: Build Your Flavorful Broth

Start by heating a large pot over high heat and add your chicken broth, water, 1 clove of crushed garlic, 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley, a quarter of the chopped onion, tomato sauce, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and fresh black pepper. Bring this lovely mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes. You’ll notice the aroma filling your kitchen—it’s the perfect scent of comfort starting to form!

Step 2: Make Tender Turkey Meatballs

While the broth simmers, combine ground turkey, Parmesan cheese, egg, the remaining garlic and onion, leftover parsley, seasoned breadcrumbs, plus salt and pepper in a bowl. Mix until just combined—not too much or the meatballs get tough. Then roll into little 1-inch meatballs; you should get about 36. I find using wet hands helps prevent sticking and keeps the size uniform.

Step 3: Cook Meatballs and Pasta Together

Gently drop your meatballs into the simmering broth and cook them for about 3 minutes until they start firming up. Then add the broken spaghetti pieces, cooking until the pasta is al dente following the package instructions. This method lets the pasta soak up the flavors in the broth, and the meatballs stay tender instead of dry.

Step 4: Finish with Fresh Basil and Seasoning

Once pasta is perfectly cooked, stir in fresh chopped basil and taste for salt and pepper adjustments. Serve hot, topped with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. This finishing touch seals the deal with that lovely cheesy note everyone appreciates.

How to Serve Spaghetti and Meatball Soup Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping this soup with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and an extra handful of chopped fresh basil. Sometimes I add a drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes if the crowd likes a little heat. These simple garnishes take the dish from everyday to something special.

Side Dishes

Pair this soup with crusty garlic bread or warm focaccia for dipping. A crisp side salad with lemon vinaigrette also balances the rich flavors beautifully and adds freshness. When I want a real family dinner vibe, I serve it with roasted veggies or a simple caprese salad.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy dinner party, I like to ladle the Spaghetti and Meatball Soup into rustic bowls and garnish with a basil leaf and Parmesan crisp on the side. Serving the soup alongside a small plate of antipasto makes it feel like a full meal experience. It’s always a crowd-pleaser when you add that little extra touch!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover Spaghetti and Meatball Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I like to keep the soup and pasta together because the pasta soaks up the broth overnight, making it even more flavorful. Just be ready for the texture to be softer the next day.

Freezing

I usually freeze the meatballs separately in a single layer, then freeze the broth and cooked pasta in another container. This way, when I thaw and reheat, I can preserve texture better. Freezing the whole soup with pasta can make the noodles mushy after reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the soup gently on low heat to avoid breaking the meatballs apart and overcooking the pasta. If reheated in the microwave, stir occasionally to ensure even heating. Sometimes I add a splash of broth if it looks too thick.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Spaghetti and Meatball Soup Recipe is one of those dishes I trust to bring comfort, flavor, and smiles every time I make it. It’s approachable yet impressive, and I recommend you give it a try—you’ll enjoy the way it fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and your family with happy bellies. Plus, it’s just the kind of recipe you want to have in your back pocket for nights when you crave something warm, wholesome, and totally satisfying.

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