Description
A classic Italian-American soup featuring tender homemade meatballs, tiny acini di pepe pasta, and fresh spinach in a flavorful chicken broth. This hearty, comforting soup is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, blending savory meatballs with fresh vegetables and a light broth.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs
- 1 lb ground beef or Italian sausage
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For the Soup
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- ¾ cup acini di pepe or small pasta
- 4 cups fresh spinach
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a bowl, combine ground beef or Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined to keep meatballs tender.
- Shape the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into small, 1-inch meatballs and set aside on a plate or tray.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add Broth and Simmer Meatballs: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Carefully add the prepared meatballs to the pot, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes until meatballs are cooked through.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the acini di pepe or small pasta to the soup and cook according to the package directions, approximately 8–10 minutes, until tender.
- Incorporate Spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for an additional 2 minutes until the spinach is wilted and tender.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors.
Notes
- Ground chicken or turkey can be substituted for beef for a leaner protein option.
- Escarole can be used instead of spinach for a traditional variation.
- Leftovers may thicken as the pasta absorbs broth; add additional broth when reheating to adjust consistency.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
