Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, delicious meal that warms the heart and soul, this Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe is just what you need. Picture this: tender meatballs swimming in a rich, tomato broth, paired with soft and pillowy gnocchi. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet simple to whip up. It’s also a fantastic choice for family gatherings, where the delightful aroma will have everyone eagerly anticipating dinner.

What makes this recipe truly special is its ability to bring people together. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or sharing it with loved ones during a festive occasion, every spoonful is packed with comfort and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious meal that feels like it took hours to make.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Even picky eaters will fall in love with the tender meatballs and flavorful gnocchi in this soup.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week; it tastes even better the next day!
• Warm and Hearty: This soup is like a warm hug in a bowl, filling your home with delightful aromas that make everyone feel welcome.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for this delightful soup! You’ll find everything you need right at your local grocery store. Here’s what goes into the Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe:

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 Serving

• 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

One of the best things about this soup is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these variations:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale for an extra boost of nutrients and color.
• Make it spicy: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous and want some heat!
• Use different pasta: If gnocchi isn’t your thing, try using small pasta shapes like ditalini or even rice.

How to Make Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients for the meatballs. Mix until just combined; overmixing can make them tough. Roll into small balls about one inch in diameter. This step is crucial because well-made meatballs are the stars of our soup!

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. Browning adds depth of flavor and makes them extra tasty! Once browned, remove them from the pot and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add diced onion, carrots, and garlic. Sauté until they are softened, about 5 minutes. This step builds layers of flavor that will enhance your broth.

Step 4: Build Your Broth

Add diced tomatoes, water, beef stock, tomato paste, salt, red pepper flakes, parsley, basil, and oregano into the pot. Stir well to combine everything thoroughly. Bring to a gentle simmer; this will allow all those lovely flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi

Once your broth is simmering nicely, add gnocchi and return meatballs back into the pot. Cook according to package instructions for the gnocchi—usually around 3-5 minutes—until they float to the surface. This ensures they are perfectly cooked!

Step 6: Serve It Up!

Ladle your hearty soup into bowls and top with fresh grated parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy with crusty bread for dipping! Sharing this meal with family or friends makes it even more special—trust me; they’ll be asking for seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Creating the perfect Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup is all about those little details that make a big difference!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh veggies and herbs will enhance the flavors of your soup, making it vibrant and aromatic.

• Don’t skip the browning: Browning the meatballs before adding them to the soup creates a deeper flavor profile and adds a lovely texture.

• Adjust spices to taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to tweak the spices according to your preference. This allows you to customize the heat level and seasoning.

• Let it simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer helps meld all the flavors together, giving it that comforting homemade taste.

• Batch cook and freeze: This soup freezes well, so consider making a double batch. You’ll have an easy meal ready for busy days!

How to Serve Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Serving this delightful soup can turn a simple meal into a comforting feast! Here are some ideas to present your delicious creation.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: Adding a sprinkle of fresh basil not only enhances visual appeal but also gives a burst of freshness.
• Extra parmesan cheese: A generous sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan adds creaminess and richness to every bowl.
• Crusty bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread on top; it soaks up the broth beautifully and adds a satisfying crunch.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for sopping up every last bit of soup. The buttery garlic flavor complements the dish beautifully.

• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and creamy dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.

• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, provides a healthy balance and adds color to your table.

• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil leaves drizzled with balsamic glaze create a light yet flavorful side that pairs wonderfully with this hearty dish.

Enjoy your cooking adventure with this hearty Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup! It’s sure to warm both your heart and soul.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch in advance, making it a convenient choice for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you have leftover meatballs, store them separately to maintain their texture.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and type of soup for easy identification later.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; just remember that gnocchi may change texture once thawed.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or reheat directly from frozen over medium heat on the stove.
• Stir occasionally until heated through; add a splash of water or broth if it seems too thick.
• Enjoy hot, topped with fresh parmesan cheese!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe.

Can I use different types of meat for the Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.

How can I make this Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup Recipe spicier?

If you love heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes in both the meatballs and broth. You can also add a splash of hot sauce when serving for an extra kick!

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup is great for meal prep. Follow the storage guidelines above to enjoy it throughout the week.

What should I serve with my Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup?

A side of crusty bread or a simple green salad pairs perfectly with this comforting soup.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find as much joy in making this Italian Meatball Gnocchi Soup as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings back memories of family gatherings and laughter around the dinner table. Enjoy crafting this recipe and share it with loved ones—it’s bound to be a hit! Happy cooking!