There’s something magical about a warm, hearty bowl of soup, especially when it’s brimming with spaghetti and meatballs. When I made Spaghetti and Meatball Soup for the first time, I was amazed at how such a simple recipe could bring so much comfort.
Each bite felt like a hug in a bowl, with tender turkey meatballs, flavorful tomato broth, and perfectly cooked spaghetti pieces. My family couldn’t get enough of it, and honestly, neither could I! Whether for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch the next day, this soup quickly became a staple in our home.
If you’re looking for a dish that’s both wholesome and a crowd-pleaser, this might just be your new favorite recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
1. Perfect One-Pot Wonder
Who doesn’t love a meal that requires minimal cleanup? This recipe comes together in just one pot, bringing all the flavors to life while making cleanup a breeze.
2. Kid-Friendly and Fun
Kids adore this dish! The small meatballs and spaghetti pieces make it easy for little hands to eat, and the flavor is mild enough to suit even picky eaters.
3. Customizable to Your Diet
Whether you’re gluten-free or prefer low-carb options, this soup can be tailored to fit your needs. From using gluten-free pasta to swapping turkey for another protein, the possibilities are endless.
4. Versatile and Full of Flavor
This soup can easily be adjusted to suit your taste. Toss in some extra veggies, add a pinch of spice, or sprinkle your favorite herbs for a personalized touch.
5. Great for Leftovers
Make a big batch because this soup is even better the next day. It stores wonderfully, making mealtime stress-free throughout the week.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- Low-sodium chicken broth
- Water
- Garlic cloves, chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Onion, chopped
- Tomato sauce
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper
- Dry spaghetti, cut into smaller pieces
- Lean ground turkey
- Egg
- Seasoned breadcrumbs
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil
Variations
- Meatballs: Substitute ground turkey with lean chicken or beef for a different flavor.
- Pasta: Try elbow macaroni, rotini, or gluten-free pasta for a twist.
- Veggies: Add spinach, carrots, or celery for extra nutrition.
- Broth: Adjust the thickness by adding more chicken broth if the soup gets too dense.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large Pot: For cooking the soup and combining all the ingredients.
- Cutting Board: To chop veggies and prep ingredients.
- Mixing Bowl: For blending the meatball mixture.
- Knife: To finely chop garlic, onion, and parsley.
How to Make Spaghetti and Meatball Soup?
Making this soup is as simple as it is delicious. Follow these steps for a batch of cozy goodness.
Step 1: Prepare the Broth 🥣
Start by heating a large pot on medium heat. Pour in the chicken broth, water, one clove of crushed garlic, half the chopped parsley, and a quarter of the chopped onion. Add the tomato sauce, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (if desired), and a touch of salt and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle boil and then lower the heat to simmer for about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Meatballs 🍖
While the broth simmers, mix the ground turkey in a bowl with Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, the remaining garlic, onion, parsley, an egg, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Shape the mixture into roughly 36 small meatballs (about 1 inch in size).
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs 🍲
Drop the meatballs gently into the simmering broth. Cook for about 3 minutes, ensuring they’re evenly submerged so they cook through.
Step 4: Add the Pasta 🍝
Pour the cut spaghetti pieces into the broth and cook as directed on the pasta package. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Final Touches 🌿
Once the pasta and meatballs are cooked, stir in freshly chopped basil. Adjust salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot with grated Parmesan sprinkled on top.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Meatball Size: Keep them small (about 1 inch) so they cook quickly and evenly without falling apart in the broth.
- Broth Flavor: Use high-quality low-sodium chicken broth. You can even add a splash of white wine for extra depth.
- Pasta Cooking: Don’t forget to regularly stir the soup while the pasta cooks to avoid clumping.
- Spicy Option: Add more crushed red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat in your soup!
How to Serve Spaghetti and Meatball Soup?
For best presentation, ladle the soup into deep bowls and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. A sprig of fresh basil on top adds a delicious aroma and a pop of color. Serve with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information
This dish is as nutritious as it is scrumptious. Per 1 ½ cup serving, you’ll get:
- Calories: 213
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 27.5g
- Fat: 3g
Make Ahead and Storage
One of the best things about this recipe is how well it keeps!
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave before serving.
- Freezing: Place smaller portions in freezer-safe containers, leaving a bit of room for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat straight from frozen.
- Pasta Note: Since pasta can soak up broth over time, you can cook and store it separately if you plan to make the soup ahead.
Enjoy a bowl of Spaghetti and Meatball Soup with your loved ones, and watch it become a recipe your family will ask for again and again! It’s hearty, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying.