Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a warm and comforting dish that feels like a big hug in a bowl, look no further than this Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe. This delightful soup combines tender meatballs with pillowy gnocchi, all swimming in a rich tomato-based broth that’s bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something quick yet satisfying or for family gatherings where everyone will gather around the table with smiles.

What I love most about this recipe is its ability to bring people together. The aroma of the soup bubbling away on the stove will have everyone asking, What’s cooking? It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this soup comes together effortlessly.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the tasty meatballs and soft gnocchi in every spoonful.
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it ahead of time and simply reheat for busy evenings!
• Flavor-packed: The combination of herbs, spices, and fresh vegetables creates a deliciously hearty bowl.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level or swap out ingredients to fit your family’s taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! You’ll find that these simple, wholesome ingredients come together beautifully to create a scrumptious meal. 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
• 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 Base

• 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
• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach, kale, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
• Make it spicy: If you like heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes to kick up the flavor.
• Try different herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique twist.

How to Make Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine all meatball ingredients. Mixing well allows every bite to be packed with flavor. Once everything is combined, form small meatballs—about one inch in diameter. This gives them just enough surface area for browning while still staying juicy inside.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Brown those meatballs on all sides. This step adds depth and flavor through caramelization. Don’t worry if they’re not fully cooked inside; they’ll finish cooking in the soup!

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Remove the meatballs from the pot and set them aside. In the same pot, sauté diced onions and carrots until they’re tender. This brings out their natural sweetness and builds a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 4: Build the Soup Base

Add diced tomatoes and minced garlic into the pot, stirring them together until fragrant. Pour in water and beef stock along with tomato paste, herbs, and seasonings. This rich broth is what makes this Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe so delicious!

Step 5: Simmer Away

Bring everything to a gentle simmer before carefully adding back your browned meatballs. Allow them to cook in the broth for about 20 minutes—this allows flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring your meatballs are fully cooked through.

Step 6: Add Gnocchi

Finally, stir in your gnocchi! These soft dumplings only need a few minutes to cook through. As they float to the top, it’s time to enjoy this incredible soup.

I hope you enjoy making this Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe as much as I do! It’s sure to become a cherished go-to dish in your home.

Pro Tips for Making Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Making this Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup is a breeze with just a few extra tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and ripe tomatoes. Fresh ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant colors to your soup, making it visually appealing.

• Don’t Skip Browning the Meatballs: Browning the meatballs in olive oil before adding them to the soup develops a deeper, richer flavor. This step infuses the broth with savory goodness and gives the meatballs a nice texture.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of crushed red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice level. This flexibility allows everyone at your table to enjoy the soup without overwhelming their palate.

• Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer for longer can intensify the flavors. If you have extra time, let it cook on low heat for an additional 10-15 minutes after adding all ingredients.

• Make Ahead: This soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheating brings the flavors back to life, making it even more delicious!

How to Serve Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Serving this hearty soup is as much about presentation as it is about taste. Here are some delightful ways to serve your Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup!

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: Chopped fresh basil adds a burst of freshness and color that complements the soup beautifully.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of fresh grated or shaved parmesan adds a creamy richness that enhances each spoonful.
• Drizzle of Olive Oil: A light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil right before serving adds depth and a lovely sheen to your bowl.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of warm crusty bread for dipping. The bread’s texture pairs wonderfully with the soup, soaking up all that flavorful broth.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the soup.
• Garlic Breadsticks: Soft garlic breadsticks are perfect for sopping up every last drop of this delicious soup—plus, who doesn’t love garlic?
• Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted seasonal vegetables can add color and nutrition, balancing out the hearty meal with some healthy options.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your family and friends with a bowl of comforting Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week or save some for a rainy day.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool to room temperature.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Note that gnocchi may change texture after freezing.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
• You can add a splash of water or stock if the soup thickens too much during storage.

FAQs

Have questions about this delightful recipe? Here are some common inquiries!

Can I make Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup in advance?

Yes! This soup is great for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for several days or frozen for later enjoyment.

What can I substitute in the Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe?

You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, and feel free to add your favorite vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I ensure my gnocchi doesn’t get mushy in this soup?

To keep gnocchi from becoming mushy, add them during the last few minutes of cooking so they stay tender yet firm.

Can I customize the spice level of my Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup?

Absolutely! Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes according to your taste preference. Start with less and add more if you like it spicier!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe as comforting and satisfying as I do! There’s something truly special about enjoying a hearty bowl of homemade soup that warms both body and soul. Whether you’re sharing it with family, friends, or just treating yourself, I’m sure you’ll love making this dish as much as you’ll enjoy eating it. Happy cooking!