Italian Pasta and Meatball Soup (Minestra con Polpettine)

Introduction

Italian Pasta and Meatball Soup is a cozy, home-style dish that brings together everything we love about pasta and meatballs—just in a warm, comforting soup. Small, tender meatballs simmer gently in a flavorful tomato broth with vegetables and tiny pasta, creating a hearty yet soothing meal. This soup is a staple in many Italian and Italian-American kitchens, especially during colder months.

Ingredients

For the Meatballs

• ½ lb (225 g) ground beef (or beef & pork mix)
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Soup

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup crushed tomatoes or tomato passata
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• ¾ cup small pasta (ditalini, anelli, or elbow pasta)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Serving

• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Make the Meatballs
   In a bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently and form small bite-sized meatballs. Set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Build the Broth
   Add crushed tomatoes and broth. Bring to a gentle boil.
4. Cook the Meatballs
   Carefully drop the meatballs into the simmering soup. Lower heat and simmer for 15 minutes, until meatballs are cooked through.
5. Add Pasta
   Stir in the pasta and cook according to package instructions (about 8–10 minutes), stirring occasionally.
6. Season and Serve
   Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan and fresh parsley.

Tips for Best Results

• Keep meatballs small so they cook evenly and fit nicely on the spoon.
• Use tiny pasta—large shapes will overpower the soup.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for gentle heat.
• If the soup thickens too much, add extra broth or water.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought meatballs?
Yes, but homemade meatballs give the best flavor and texture.

Is this the same as Italian Wedding Soup?
It’s similar, but this version uses tomato broth and pasta instead of greens.

Can I freeze this soup?
Freeze the soup without pasta for best results. Add fresh pasta when reheating.