Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming dish that brings everyone together, this Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe is just the ticket! There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of soup filled with tender meatballs and fluffy gnocchi, all swimming in a rich tomato broth. It’s an absolute favorite in my house, especially on chilly evenings or during busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

This soup isn’t just about flavor; it’s also versatile enough for family gatherings or casual dinners with friends. Once you taste it, you’ll understand why it’s become a beloved staple.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves meatballs, and the soft gnocchi makes this soup feel extra special.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the meatballs and soup base ahead of time, making dinner even easier.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of spices, fresh ingredients, and savory broth creates a comforting bowl of goodness.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the spice levels or add your favorite veggies to make it your own!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some wholesome ingredients! This Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe uses straightforward items that are easy to find at any grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Meatballs

• 1/2 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb ground beef (85/15 meat to fat ratio)
• 1/2 cup plain bread crumbs
• 1/2 cup fresh grated parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/2 yellow onion (minced)
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tbsp dried parsley
• 2 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (more or less to taste)
• 1 tsp salt (more or less to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper (more or less to taste)

For the Soup

• 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
• 1/2 yellow onion (diced)
• 2 medium carrots (diced)
• 2-3 tomatoes on a vine (diced)
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 cup water
• 5-6 cups beef stock
• 4 oz tomato paste
• 1/2-1 tsp salt (more or less to taste)
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (more or less to taste)
• 1 tbsp dried parsley
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano

For the Gnocchi

• 14-16 oz gnocchi (homemade or ready-to-use)

Optional Garnish

• 1 rind of parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh grated or shaved parmesan cheese

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can easily tweak it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.
• Adjust the heat: If you like it spicy, increase the crushed red pepper flakes!
• Make it vegetarian: Replace the meatballs with lentil balls for a hearty plant-based option.

How to Make Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, egg, minced onion, garlic, parsley, basil, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything gently until combined—this helps keep the meatballs tender! Form small balls about an inch in diameter and set them aside.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Carefully add your meatballs in batches so they don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook them until browned on all sides; this step adds wonderful flavor to your soup!

Step 3: Sauté Your Veggies

Once all meatballs are browned and set aside, use the same pot to sauté diced onion and carrots until they become tender. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant—this builds a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 4: Build Your Broth

Next, stir in diced tomatoes along with water and beef stock. Add tomato paste and seasonings like salt, red pepper flakes, parsley, basil, and oregano. Bring everything to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Add Meatballs and Gnocchi

Carefully return your browned meatballs to the pot. Allow them to cook in the broth for about 10 minutes before adding gnocchi. Let everything simmer together until gnocchi floats—this means they’re cooked through!

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Ladle into bowls and sprinkle with fresh parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm alongside crusty bread for dipping—perfect for sharing! Enjoy each delightful spoonful of this hearty Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup!

Pro Tips for Making Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Making this soup is a delightful experience, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate it to the next level.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor of your soup significantly. Opt for vine-ripened tomatoes and fresh garlic for the best taste.
• Don’t Skip the Cheese Rind: Adding a parmesan cheese rind to the broth while it simmers adds depth and richness, infusing the soup with an extra layer of flavor.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Start with a small amount of red pepper flakes and adjust according to your preference. This way, you can cater to everyone’s palate—spicy or mild!
• Let it Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer for a longer period helps meld all the flavors together. The longer it simmers, the better it tastes!
• Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Consider making a big batch and storing leftovers in the fridge to enjoy later.

How to Serve Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe

This comforting soup is perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. Here are some ideas on how to present this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the broth beautifully.
• Parmesan Cheese: Top each bowl with freshly grated or shaved parmesan cheese for a creamy, savory finish.
• Crusty Bread Crumbs: For added texture, consider sprinkling some toasted bread crumbs on top just before serving.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that delicious broth. Plus, it’s always a crowd-pleaser!
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a basic vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and sweetness to your meal while complementing the flavors in your soup perfectly.
• Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta pairs wonderfully with this dish, offering an additional comforting element that everyone will love.

Now you’re ready to prepare this delightful Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup! Gather your ingredients, follow these tips, and enjoy every spoonful of this delicious meal. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store and enjoy it later:

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days.
• If possible, separate the gnocchi from the soup before storing to prevent them from becoming too soft.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• To preserve texture, consider freezing the meatballs separately from the broth and gnocchi.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• You can also microwave individual portions; just ensure they’re heated evenly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful soup!

Can I use other types of meat for this Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! While beef is traditional, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option. Just ensure you season it well to maintain flavor.

How spicy is this Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe?

The spice level depends on how much crushed red pepper flakes you add. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat and adjust according to your taste preferences.

Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly in this Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe! It’s a great time-saver while still providing delicious results.

What can I serve with this soup?

This hearty soup pairs nicely with crusty bread or a light salad. You could also sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for an extra touch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that warms both the body and soul. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re craving something cozy, I invite you to gather around the table and share it with loved ones. Happy cooking!