Easy One-Pot Creamy Meatball Soup is the kind of comforting, no-fuss meal that makes dinner feel effortless, and this Simple One-Pot Creamy Meatball Soup Recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want something warm, filling, and family-friendly.
This soup brings together tender meatballs, hearty vegetables, pasta, and a creamy broth that feels indulgent without being complicated. Everything cooks in one pot, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy a cozy bowl of soup at the table.
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Why You’ll Love This Easy One-Pot Creamy Meatball Soup
This Easy One-Pot Creamy Meatball Soup is designed with real life in mind.
It is incredibly simple to make, using mostly pantry and freezer staples. Frozen meatballs work beautifully, cutting down on prep time while still delivering great flavor.
The soup is rich and comforting without being heavy. The creamy broth is balanced by vegetables and pasta, making each spoonful satisfying but not overwhelming.
It is also easy to customize. You can adjust the vegetables, pasta shape, or protein to suit what you have on hand, which makes this recipe ideal for meal planning and leftovers.
Most importantly, it is a meal the whole family can enjoy. The flavors are mild, savory, and familiar, making it a reliable dinner option for both kids and adults.
Ingredients for Easy One-Pot Creamy Meatball Soup
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 pound frozen or homemade meatballs
- 1 cup small pasta, such as ditalini or small shells
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Ingredient Notes and Substitutions
If you prefer a lighter soup, you can replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. To help prevent curdling, add dairy at the end and keep the heat low.
For a pork-free version, use chicken or turkey meatballs. Plant-based meatballs also work well for a vegetarian-friendly option when paired with vegetable broth.
Short pasta shapes are best because they cook evenly and fit easily on a spoon. If you are avoiding pasta, substitute cooked rice or add extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasoning
Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. Cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Season lightly with salt and black pepper.
Step 3: Add Broth and Meatballs
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the soup to a gentle boil. Add the meatballs directly to the pot. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, allowing the meatballs to heat through and release flavor into the broth.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Stir in the pasta and continue simmering for another 8 to 10 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Make It Creamy
Lower the heat and slowly stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir gently until the cheese melts and the broth becomes creamy and smooth.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve warm.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use a large pot to prevent boilovers once the pasta is added.
- Stir occasionally while simmering so the pasta does not stick to the bottom.
- Add cream and cheese over low heat to keep the soup smooth.
- If the soup thickens too much, add extra broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Let the soup rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to blend.
Flavor Variations
This Easy One-Pot Creamy Meatball Soup can be customized in many ways.
Add spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for extra greens.
Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
Swap Parmesan for Romano or Asiago cheese for a slightly sharper flavor.
Add a splash of lemon juice at the end to brighten the creamy broth.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is hearty enough to serve on its own, but simple sides make it even better.
Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping.
A simple green salad with vinaigrette helps balance the richness.
For a bigger meal, pair with a light sandwich or roasted vegetables.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
Store leftover Easy One-Pot Creamy Meatball Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk if needed.
If you plan to freeze the soup, consider freezing it before adding the cream and pasta. Add those fresh when reheating for the best texture. Frozen soup keeps well for up to 2 months.
Print
Simple One-Pot Creamy Meatball Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This Simple One-Pot Creamy Meatball Soup Recipe is a comforting, family-friendly dinner made with tender meatballs, hearty vegetables, pasta, and a rich creamy broth, all cooked together in one pot for easy cleanup.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 pound frozen or homemade meatballs
- 1 cup small pasta (ditalini or small shells)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion, carrots, and celery and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic and Italian seasoning and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
- Add meatballs, reduce heat, and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes.
- Stir in pasta and continue simmering for 8 to 10 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Lower heat and slowly stir in heavy cream.
- Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve warm.
Notes
Add cream and cheese over low heat to keep the soup smooth. If the soup thickens too much, add extra broth to reach the desired consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 |
| Protein | 26 g |
| Carbohydrates | 34 g |
| Fat | 26 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sodium | 780 mg |
Values are estimates and will vary based on ingredients used.
FAQ About Easy One-Pot Creamy Meatball Soup
Can I use frozen meatballs?
Yes, frozen meatballs work perfectly and make this recipe even easier. Just add them straight from the freezer.
How do I keep the soup from getting too thick?
Pasta absorbs liquid as it sits. Add extra broth when reheating to maintain a soup-like consistency.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, but for best results, add pasta and cream just before serving or reheat gently with added liquid.
Is this soup kid-friendly?
Absolutely. The flavors are mild and creamy, making it a great option for family dinners.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free pasta or substitute cooked rice instead of pasta.
Final Thoughts
This Simple One-Pot Creamy Meatball Soup Recipe is everything a comforting dinner should be. It is warm, filling, easy to make, and packed with familiar flavors that everyone loves. With minimal prep and one pot, it is a recipe you will come back to again and again.
Whether you are cooking for a busy weeknight or looking for a cozy meal to share, this Easy One-Pot Creamy Meatball Soup is a reliable and delicious choice.