Description
This hearty and comforting Italian Meatball Soup is made easy in the crockpot, with tender meatballs, veggies, and a flavorful tomato-based broth. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this soup is simple to prepare and can be customized with pasta or rice. Add a handful of fresh spinach or kale at the end for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition!
Ingredients
- Frozen or homemade meatballs (about 1-1.5 pounds)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 4 cups beef or chicken broth
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh spinach or kale (optional, added at the end)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for garnish
- Optional: cooked pasta or rice
Instructions
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Prepare the Ingredients: In the crockpot, add the frozen or homemade meatballs, diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato paste, broth, carrots, celery, onion, zucchini, Italian seasoning, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
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Cook the Soup: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the meatballs are cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
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Add Greens: About 15-20 minutes before serving, add the fresh spinach or kale (if using) to the crockpot and stir to combine. Let the greens wilt in the hot broth.
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Optional: If you want to add pasta or rice, cook them separately according to the package instructions and add them to the soup just before serving.
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve warm with crusty bread or your choice of sides.
Notes
- You can use store-bought frozen meatballs or make your own homemade meatballs.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can reduce the amount of broth or add a few more vegetables.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free meatballs and serve with gluten-free pasta or rice.
- This soup can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days and can also be frozen for later use.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high
- Category: Soup, Comfort Food, Crockpot
- Method: Slow cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Crockpot Soup, Italian Meatball Soup, Slow Cooker, Comfort Food, Easy Soup, Italian Recipes, Healthy Soup