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When you need dinner to feel warm, filling, and easy to pull together, meatball soup is such a good option. It gives you the comfort of soup with the extra heartiness of meatballs, so it feels more like a full meal and less like a starter. That is especially helpful on busy nights when you want something cozy but still practical.
I like meatball soup because it can go in so many directions. You can keep it classic with pasta and herbs, make it rich with tomatoes, or add greens, beans, or rice to stretch it into a bigger meal. It is also a smart way to use simple ingredients you may already have at home.
This list will give you 23 hearty meatball soup recipes you can make for weeknights, cold evenings, or family dinners. Some are light and brothy, while others are thick, rich, and extra comforting. No matter what kind of soup you are craving, there is a good chance you will find one here that fits.
1. Classic Italian Meatball Soup

This recipe works so well because it gives you that classic Italian-style comfort in one bowl. The meatballs make it filling, while the pasta and vegetables keep it family-friendly and easy to love.
Recipe Metadata:
- Time to Make: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup small pasta
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Recipe Steps:
- Mix ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, parmesan, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Roll into small meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot and brown the meatballs for 4 to 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, cook onion, carrots, and celery until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in broth and crushed tomatoes, then bring to a boil.
- Add pasta and simmer for 8 minutes.
- Return meatballs to the pot and cook until fully done, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Stir in parsley and serve hot.
2. Creamy Meatball Potato Soup

If you want something extra filling, this soup is a great pick. The potatoes and creamy broth make it rich and satisfying, while the meatballs turn it into a full dinner.
Recipe Metadata:
- Time to Make: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Recipe Steps:
- Mix beef, egg, breadcrumbs, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs.
- Brown meatballs in a soup pot, then remove and set aside.
- Melt butter in the same pot and cook onion and celery until soft.
- Add potatoes and broth. Bring to a boil.
- Lower heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir flour into the milk, then pour into the pot with the cream.
- Return meatballs to the soup and simmer until potatoes are tender and meatballs are cooked through.
- Top with parsley and serve warm.
3. Meatball Orzo Soup

This soup is simple, cozy, and easy to make on a weeknight. The orzo gives it a soft, comforting texture that works really well with the small meatballs and broth.
Recipe Metadata:
- Time to Make: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 3/4 cup orzo
- 2 cups baby spinach
Recipe Steps:
- Mix turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Shape into small meatballs.
- Heat oil in a large pot and brown meatballs lightly. Remove and set aside.
- Cook onion and carrots in the same pot until soft. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil.
- Add orzo and simmer for 6 minutes.
- Return meatballs to the soup and cook until done.
- Stir in spinach until wilted, then serve.
4. Tomato Basil Meatball Soup

This one is great when you want a soup with bold tomato flavor but still want something hearty. The basil gives it a fresh finish that keeps the bowl from feeling too heavy.
Recipe Metadata:
- Time to Make: 45 minutes
- Servings: 5
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 5 cups beef broth
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Recipe Steps:
- Mix beef, egg, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Roll into meatballs.
- Brown meatballs in olive oil, then remove from the pot.
- Add onion, garlic, and carrot to the pot and cook until softened.
- Stir in tomato paste, then add broth and crushed tomatoes.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat.
- Return meatballs to the pot and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Stir in fresh basil just before serving.
5. Swedish-Style Meatball Soup

This recipe feels warm and comforting in a softer, creamier way. It has the flavor of Swedish meatballs but turns that idea into an easy soup that is perfect for cold nights.
Recipe Metadata:
- Time to Make: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 5 cups beef broth
- 1 cup egg noodles
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill
Recipe Steps:
- Mix beef, nutmeg, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Form into mini meatballs.
- Brown meatballs in butter, then remove and set aside.
- Cook onion and carrots in the same pot until soft.
- Add broth and bring to a boil.
- Stir in egg noodles and cook for 5 minutes.
- Return meatballs to the pot and simmer until cooked through.
- Mix sour cream with flour, stir into the soup, and heat gently.
- Sprinkle with dill before serving.
6. Spinach Meatball Soup

This soup is hearty without feeling too heavy. The spinach adds color and freshness, which makes the whole bowl feel balanced and easy to come back to.
Recipe Metadata:
- Time to Make: 35 minutes
- Servings: 5
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Recipe Steps:
- Mix turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Form meatballs.
- Brown meatballs in oil, then remove from the pot.
- Cook onion and carrots until softened.
- Add broth and bring to a simmer.
- Return meatballs to the soup and cook until done, about 10 minutes.
- Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
- Finish with lemon juice and serve hot.
7. Meatball Vegetable Soup

This is a good clean-out-the-fridge kind of soup that still feels filling and cozy. It is packed with vegetables, so it is a smart choice when you want something hearty with a little more substance.
Recipe Metadata:
- Time to Make: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 cup green beans
- 1 cup corn
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 6 cups beef broth
Recipe Steps:
- Mix beef, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper, then shape into meatballs.
- Brown meatballs in oil and remove from the pot.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened.
- Pour in broth and diced tomatoes.
- Add green beans and corn, then bring to a boil.
- Return meatballs to the pot and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Serve hot once vegetables are tender.
8. Meatball Tortellini Soup

This soup feels extra cozy because it combines two comfort foods in one bowl. The cheese tortellini makes it rich and satisfying, while the broth keeps it easy enough for dinner.
Recipe Metadata:
- Time to Make: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 package cheese tortellini
- 2 cups spinach
Recipe Steps:
- Mix beef, egg, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Roll into mini meatballs.
- Brown meatballs in oil, then remove them from the pot.
- Cook onion and garlic until soft.
- Add broth and tomatoes and bring to a boil.
- Stir in tortellini and cook according to package directions.
- Return meatballs to the pot and simmer until fully cooked.
- Stir in spinach and serve once wilted.
9. Lemon Herb Meatball Soup

This soup is bright, fresh, and still very comforting. The lemon keeps the flavor light, while the meatballs and rice make sure it still feels like a full meal.
Recipe Metadata:
- Time to Make: 40 minutes
- Servings: 5
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 3/4 cup cooked rice
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
Recipe Steps:
- Mix chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, and dill. Form into meatballs.
- Brown meatballs lightly in oil, then remove them.
- Cook onion and carrots in the same pot until tender.
- Add broth and bring to a simmer.
- Return meatballs to the soup and cook for 10 to 12 minutes.
- Stir in cooked rice, lemon juice, and parsley.
- Serve hot.
10. Meatball Minestrone Soup

This version is great when you want a soup that feels generous and packed with goodness. The beans, pasta, vegetables, and meatballs make every spoonful feel filling.
Recipe Metadata:
- Time to Make: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can white beans, drained
- 5 cups beef broth
- 3/4 cup small pasta
Recipe Steps:
- Mix beef, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Form into mini meatballs.
- Brown meatballs in oil, then remove and set aside.
- Cook onion, carrots, celery, and zucchini until softened.
- Add tomatoes, beans, and broth. Bring to a boil.
- Stir in pasta and simmer for 8 minutes.
- Return meatballs to the pot and cook until fully done.
- Serve warm.
11. Cabbage Meatball Soup

If you like cabbage rolls, this soup gives you some of that same comfort with much less work. It is simple, hearty, and made with everyday ingredients.
Recipe Metadata:
- Time to Make: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 4 cups chopped cabbage
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 5 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Recipe Steps:
- Mix beef, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Shape into small meatballs.
- Brown meatballs in oil and remove from the pot.
- Cook onion and carrots until softened.
- Add cabbage and cook for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Pour in broth and diced tomatoes. Stir in paprika.
- Return meatballs to the pot and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Serve once cabbage is tender.
12. Parmesan Meatball Soup

This soup is simple but full of flavor. The parmesan adds a salty, savory finish that makes the broth taste a little richer without making the soup feel heavy.
Recipe Metadata:
- Time to Make: 40 minutes
- Servings: 5
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 5 cups chicken broth
- 3/4 cup small pasta
- Extra parmesan for serving
Recipe Steps:
- Mix beef, egg, breadcrumbs, parmesan, salt, and pepper. Form into meatballs.
- Brown meatballs in oil and remove from the pot.
- Cook onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
- Add broth and bring to a boil.
- Stir in pasta and simmer until nearly tender.
- Return meatballs to the pot and cook through.
- Serve with extra parmesan on top.
13. Meatball Rice Soup

This is a very comforting soup when you want something plain, warm, and filling. The rice makes it soft and cozy, and it is a great option for family dinners.
Recipe Metadata:
- Time to Make: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 tablespoon parsley
Recipe Steps:
- Mix turkey, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Roll into meatballs.
- Brown meatballs in oil, then set aside.
- Cook onion, carrots, and celery until soft.
- Add broth and bring to a simmer.
- Return meatballs to the soup and cook for 10 to 12 minutes.
- Stir in cooked rice and parsley.
- Heat through and serve.
14. Spicy Meatball Soup

This soup is a great pick when you want something cozy with a little kick. The heat brings extra flavor to the broth and keeps each bite interesting.
Recipe Metadata:
- Time to Make: 40 minutes
- Servings: 5
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 5 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Recipe Steps:
- Mix beef, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Shape into meatballs.
- Brown meatballs in oil, then remove from the pot.
- Cook onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened.
- Add crushed tomatoes, broth, paprika, and chili flakes.
- Bring to a simmer.
- Return meatballs to the pot and cook for 15 minutes.
- Serve hot.
15. Meatball Bean Soup

This recipe is hearty in the best way. The beans stretch the soup nicely and make it feel extra filling without needing many fancy ingredients.
Recipe Metadata:
- Time to Make: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 can white beans, drained
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 5 cups beef broth
Recipe Steps:
- Mix beef, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. Roll into meatballs.
- Brown meatballs in oil and remove from the pot.
- Cook onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
- Add broth, tomatoes, and beans. Bring to a simmer.
- Return meatballs to the soup and cook for 15 minutes.
- Serve once everything is hot and tender.















