Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming dish that will delight your family and friends, this Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe is just the ticket! Picture yourself on a chilly evening, curling up with a bowl of this comforting soup, filled with flavorful meatballs and delicate gnocchi. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in warmth and love, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again!

This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to whip up. You can have it ready in about an hour, making it a fantastic option for any night when you crave something special without too much fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you’ll have dinner on the table before you know it.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the tender meatballs and soft gnocchi swimming in rich broth.
• Make-ahead goodness: The soup stores beautifully in the fridge or freezer, so you can enjoy leftovers or meal prep for the week!
• Flavor explosion: The combination of spices and fresh ingredients creates a soup that’s both comforting and exciting to your taste buds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple, wholesome ingredients are what make this Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe so special. Let’s gather everything we need for this delightful dish!

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 (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper (adjust 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 (minced)
• 1 cup water
• 5-6 cups beef stock
• 4 oz tomato paste
• 1/2-1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust 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)
• 1 rind of parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup fresh grated or shaved parmesan cheese

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these tasty variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale towards the end for added nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: If you’re craving extra heat, add more crushed red pepper flakes or toss in some diced jalapeños.
• Creamy twist: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer soup experience.

How to Make Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, grated parmesan cheese, egg, minced onion, garlic, parsley, basil, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overwork the mixture. Form into small meatballs—about one inch in diameter—so they cook evenly and remain tender.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, carefully place meatballs in the pot. Cook until they’re browned on all sides—about 5-7 minutes. This step adds depth of flavor through caramelization; don’t rush it!

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Remove meatballs from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, add diced onion and carrots. Sauté until softened—around 4 minutes. Then add diced tomatoes and minced garlic; cook until fragrant. This builds layers of flavor that will make your soup irresistible.

Step 4: Build Your Soup Base

Return meatballs back into the pot along with water, beef stock, tomato paste, salt, red pepper flakes, parsley, basil, and oregano. Stir well to combine everything. Bring it all to a gentle simmer; let it bubble away for about 20 minutes so all those flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Cook Gnocchi and Serve

Add gnocchi directly into the simmering soup. Cook according to package instructions or until they float to the top if homemade—this usually takes just a few minutes! If using a parmesan rind for extra flavor depth… toss that in too! Serve hot with freshly grated parmesan on top for an elegant finish.

And there you have it—a bowl full of warmth that feels like home! Enjoy every spoonful of this delightful Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe with loved ones gathered around your table.

Pro Tips for Making Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Making this soup is a delightful journey, and with a few pro tips, you’ll elevate your culinary experience!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs can significantly enhance the flavor of your soup. Opt for in-season produce to ensure vibrant taste and nutrition.

• Don’t skip the cheese rind: Adding a parmesan cheese rind while simmering the soup infuses a rich, savory depth that makes every spoonful irresistible.

• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to modify the amount of crushed red pepper flakes according to your spice preference. A little kick can truly make the flavors pop!

• Make it ahead of time: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it in advance for a convenient meal option.

• Experiment with gnocchi: If you’re feeling adventurous, try different types of gnocchi or even homemade versions. Each variation brings its own unique texture and flavor.

How to Serve Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Serving this hearty soup is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary dishes. Here are some thoughtful suggestions to enhance your dining experience!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A sprinkle of torn basil not only adds a burst of color but also a fresh herbal note that brightens each bowl.

• Cracked black pepper: A light sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper just before serving enhances the aroma and adds an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of broth from your bowl.

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty soup.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus complement the flavors in the soup while adding color and nutrition to your meal.

• Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta served on the side makes for a comforting addition that pairs beautifully with the flavorful broth and meatballs.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup will be a hit at any table! Enjoy every comforting bowl as you share this delicious recipe with friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and store it for those busy weeknights when you need something comforting and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you have leftovers, keep the gnocchi separate to maintain their texture.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• For best results, freeze without gnocchi; add fresh gnocchi when reheating.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• If using frozen portions, reheat gently, adding a splash of water or stock if needed.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe with chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version. Just follow the same meatball preparation steps.

How do I store leftover Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it without the gnocchi.

Can I use homemade gnocchi in this Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe?

Yes, homemade gnocchi works wonderfully! Just ensure they are added towards the end of cooking for that perfect texture.

What can I serve with Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe?

A fresh salad or crusty bread pairs beautifully with this soup, making it a complete meal.

How spicy is the Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe?

The spice level can be adjusted by adding more or less crushed red pepper flakes according to your preference.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup as comforting and delightful as I do! It’s a wonderful recipe that brings warmth and joy to any table. Enjoy making it for yourself and your loved ones—there’s truly nothing like sharing a hearty bowl of soup. Happy cooking!