Spinach and White Bean Meatball Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This hearty Italian-inspired soup combines tender meatballs, creamy white beans, and fresh spinach in a flavorful broth that’s both nourishing and satisfying. It’s the perfect one-pot meal that brings together protein, vegetables, and comfort in every spoonful.

Pure Comfort

There’s something magical about homemade meatball soup that warms both body and soul. The combination of seasoned meatballs simmered in rich broth, along with tender white beans and wilted spinach, creates a bowl of pure comfort that’s perfect for any season.

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef (80/20)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, sliced
8 cups chicken broth
2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
6 cups fresh spinach
Salt and pepper to taste

What You Need

Large soup pot or Dutch oven
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Wooden spoon

Time to Cook

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Steps to Make It

Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Form mixture into small meatballs, about 1-inch diameter.
Heat olive oil in pot over medium heat. Brown meatballs in batches, about 5 minutes.
Remove meatballs and set aside. In same pot, sauté onions and carrots until softened.
Add broth and bring to simmer. Return meatballs to pot and cook 15 minutes.
Add white beans and cook 5 minutes more.
Stir in spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Make It Perfect

Keep meatballs uniform in size for even cooking
Don’t overcrowd when browning meatballs
Let soup simmer gently to keep meatballs tender
Add spinach just before serving to maintain its bright color

Mix It Up

Try ground turkey or chicken for lighter meatballs
Swap spinach for kale or Swiss chard
Use different bean varieties like cannellini or navy beans
Add small pasta like orzo or ditalini

Perfect Partners

Crusty Italian bread
Caesar salad
Garlic bread
Grated Parmesan for serving

Busy Day Hero

Make meatballs ahead and freeze them. On cooking day, just drop them frozen into your simmering broth.

Work Ahead

Prepare meatballs up to 24 hours in advance. Store covered in refrigerator until ready to cook.

Save Some For Later

This soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Cool completely before storing in airtight containers.

Everyone’s Happy

This versatile soup pleases both kids and adults. It’s hearty enough for dinner but light enough for lunch.

Good For You Too

Protein-rich meatballs and beans
Iron-packed spinach
Vitamin-rich carrots
Low-carb without pasta
High in fiber from beans and vegetables

Easy Clean Up

One-pot cooking means minimal dishes. Line your mixing bowl with plastic wrap when making meatballs for easier cleanup.

Switch It Up

Make it spicy with red pepper flakes
Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley
Include diced tomatoes for more flavor
Try different spice blends in meatballs

Simply Perfect

This soup strikes the perfect balance between hearty and healthy, making it an ideal choice for any occasion.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, but add it earlier in cooking process.
How do I prevent tough meatballs?
Don’t overmix meat mixture and simmer gently.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Replace meatballs with mushrooms or plant-based alternatives.
Will this soup thicken naturally?
The starch from beans provides natural thickening.
How long does it keep in the refrigerator?
3-4 days in airtight container.
Can I use canned beans?
Yes, just drain and rinse them well.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternative.

Conclusion

This Spinach and White Bean Meatball Soup is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an extraordinary meal. It’s a perfect blend of comfort and nutrition, making it a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this soup delivers on all fronts – flavor, nutrition, and satisfaction.

If you loved this Spinach and White Bean Meatball Soup, you’ll enjoy these other comforting and flavorful dishes:

Try the Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta for another delicious, protein-packed meal with a creamy finish.
Craving something with a little more spice? Check out this Fiery Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce for a bold and comforting bowl of noodles.
If you’re in the mood for another cozy, broth-based dish, this Potsticker Soup with Mushrooms & Bok Choy is a must-try!
Looking for the perfect side to accompany your soup? Classic Dill Pickle Macaroni Salad adds a refreshing, tangy bite to any meal.
End your meal on a sweet note with this Strawberry Icebox Pie—a creamy and fruity treat that’s easy to make!

Enjoy your cooking adventure and discover more comforting Italian-inspired recipes! 🍽️