Classic Spaghetti Meatball Soup

This hearty spaghetti and meatball soup transforms the familiar comfort food of classic spaghetti and meatballs into a warm, cozy, and easy to make dinner that the whole family can enjoy. Perfect for chilly evenings when you crave something both filling and souplike but still packed with flavor and texture.

I first made this soup on a cold fall night, and it instantly became a regular in our rotation because everyone loved the blend of pasta, meat, and broth in one bowl. It is a dish that feels special but does not require hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• Olive oil: essential for sautéing the aromatics and adding richness choose extra virgin for better flavor
• Small onion, finely chopped: builds the flavor base fresh and firm onions work best
• Garlic cloves, minced: adds aromatic depth fresh cloves are preferable over preminced for bright flavor
• Chicken broth: the savory liquid foundation homemade or low sodium store bought is ideal for control over saltiness
• Marinara sauce: adds tomato sweetness and herbiness opt for a quality brand with natural ingredients
• Italian seasoning: blends herbs like oregano and basil for authentic Italian flavors
• Thin spaghetti broken in half: pasta that cooks quickly in the soup use a good quality brand that holds texture well
• Mini meatballs, cooked: the star protein of the dish homemade is best but frozen works well for busy days
• Salt and pepper to taste: seasoning essentials to balance every flavor

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics:

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic and cook for about 5 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally until they become soft and fragrant. This step creates the rich flavor base for the soup.

Simmer the Broth:

Pour in the chicken broth and marinara sauce into the pot. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and stir to combine. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This helps meld all the flavors together.

Cook Pasta and Meatballs:

Add the broken spaghetti pieces and pre cooked mini meatballs to the boiling broth. Cook for 6 to 7 minutes or until the pasta is tender but still slightly firm. The meatballs only need to warm through since they are cooked beforehand.

Season and Serve:

Taste the soup and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and if you like, top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for that classic finishing touch.

My favorite ingredient is the mini meatballs because they bring that comforting, juicy burst in every bite. One of my best memories is making a big batch of these with my kids on a weekend and then having the soup ready on a chilly weeknight so dinner was both quick and familymade.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Since the pasta continues to soak up broth, it is best to keep the soup separate from the meatballs and pasta if you want to enjoy leftovers with the same texture. Reheat gently on the stove adding a splash of broth to loosen the soup.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef in the meatballs for a lighter version. Vegetable broth works great for a vegetarian take if you replace meatballs with vegetarian alternatives or sautéed mushrooms. Use gluten free pasta to accommodate dietary needs without losing much flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping and soaking up the broth. A simple green salad with a vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup. Sprinkle red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for a little spice.

Serve hot with your preferred toppings and enjoy a quick comforting meal. This soup is a simple family friendly dish that comes together fast.

Common Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen meatballs for this soup?

Yes, frozen meatballs work well and save prep time. Just ensure they’re fully heated through when added to the broth.

→ What type of pasta is best for this dish?

Thin spaghetti broken in half cooks quickly and blends nicely with the broth and meatballs.

→ How long does it take to cook the meatballs?

Mini meatballs typically bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes, depending on size.

→ Can I prepare meatballs in advance?

Absolutely, prepping meatballs ahead and storing them refrigerated or frozen helps speed up mealtime.

→ What herbs enhance the soup’s flavor?

Italian seasoning and fresh basil are ideal for adding aromatic, classic flavors to the broth and meatballs.