Italian Meatball Orzo Soup is a cozy, hearty soup featuring juicy meatballs, tender orzo, and vegetables in a savory broth. Perfect for family meals or cold evenings.
Author:Emma Harper
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:45 minutes
Yield:6 servings 1x
Category:Soup
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Italian
Diet:Halal
Ingredients
UnitsScale
1lb ground beef or ground turkey
1/2cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1/4cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, finely chopped
2 carrots, peeled and diced
2 stalks celery, diced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
6cups chicken or beef broth
3/4cup orzo pasta
2cups fresh spinach or kale
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into small meatballs. Set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5–7 minutes.
Add diced tomatoes and broth. Bring to a boil.
Carefully drop the meatballs into the boiling soup. Reduce heat and simmer for 10–12 minutes until meatballs are cooked through.
Stir in orzo pasta and cook for 8–10 minutes until tender.
Add spinach or kale and simmer for another 2–3 minutes until wilted.
Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Notes
Use ground chicken or plant-based meat for variation.
Swap orzo with other small pasta types.
Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Freezes well for up to 2 months.
Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added flavor.