Rigatoni Meatball Soup Recipe: 7 Comforting Flavors

Name: Rigatoni Meatball Soup Recipe: 7 Comforting Flavors
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cups beef broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup rigatoni pasta; Fresh basil for garnish

August 28, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Ah, there’s just something so comforting about a big bowl of soup, isn’t there? It’s like a warm hug on a chilly day! This rigatoni meatball soup recipe is one of my absolute favorites because it combines hearty meatballs, tender pasta, and a flavorful broth that just sings with Italian goodness. I remember the first time I made this soup; it was a rainy Sunday afternoon, and the smell wafting through my kitchen felt like home. The cozy aroma of garlic and simmering beef broth wrapped around me like a soft blanket, and honestly, I could hardly wait to dive in!

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is. You don’t need to be a master chef to whip this up—just a few fresh ingredients, a little love, and you’ll have a meal that’s sure to impress family or friends. Plus, it’s packed with flavor and heartiness that makes it perfect for any occasion. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a delicious bowl of rigatoni meatball soup:

1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cups beef broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup rigatoni pasta
Fresh basil for garnish

(Tip: Make sure to chop the onion, dice the carrots and celery into bite-sized pieces, and remember that ‘1 cup rigatoni pasta’ means measuring the dry pasta—don’t worry, it expands beautifully in the soup!)

How to Prepare the Rigatoni Meatball Soup

Alright, let’s dive into the heart of this cozy dish! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a pot of deliciousness simmering away in no time. Don’t worry; I’ll guide you every step of the way!

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

First things first, let’s get those meatballs ready! In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 egg, and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning along with some salt and pepper to taste. Now, here’s the fun part—mix everything together with your hands! Make sure it’s well combined but don’t overdo it, or your meatballs might get tough. Once mixed, shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Set them aside on a plate while you prep the next steps.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Now, grab a large pot and heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot (you can test it by flicking a drop of water in—if it sizzles, you’re good to go!), add in your chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté these beauties for about 5-7 minutes, or until the veggies are tender and the onion is translucent. This step is crucial because it builds the flavor base for your soup!

Step 3: Brown the Meatballs

Time to add those meatballs to the pot! Gently place them in the pot with the sautéed veggies, being careful not to overcrowd them. You want to brown them on all sides, which should take about 5-6 minutes. They don’t need to be cooked through at this point; just get that lovely brown crust on the outside. Use tongs to turn them, and remember to handle them gently, so they don’t fall apart!

Step 4: Add Broth and Tomatoes

Once your meatballs are beautifully browned, it’s time to pour in 4 cups of beef broth and add the can of diced tomatoes (juice and all). Give it a good stir to combine everything, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where all those flavors start to meld together, so let it bubble away for about 10 minutes!

Step 5: Cook the Rigatoni

Now, let’s add the star of the show: the rigatoni pasta! Toss in 1 cup of rigatoni and give it a quick stir. Let it cook in the simmering soup for about 10-12 minutes, or until it’s al dente. You want it to have a little bite, so check it a couple of minutes before the time is up. Trust me, you don’t want mushy pasta in your soup!

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Finally, it’s time to serve up this hearty soup! Ladle the rigatoni meatball soup into bowls while it’s still hot, and don’t forget to garnish with some fresh basil leaves on top. They add a lovely pop of color and flavor. Enjoy every warm, comforting bite of this delicious bowl of goodness!

Nutritional Information

Alright, let’s talk nutrition! This rigatoni meatball soup recipe is not only delicious but also packs a decent nutritional punch. Here’s a rough estimate of what you can expect per bowl:

Calories: 400
Fat: 15g
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 800mg
Fiber: 3g

Keep in mind these values are estimates, so they can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But hey, knowing you’re enjoying a hearty meal while still keeping it balanced is always a win in my book!

Tips for Success

To ensure your rigatoni meatball soup recipe turns out absolutely perfect, here are some of my favorite tips and tricks:

Taste as you go: Don’t be shy about tasting the broth as it simmers! It’s the best way to know if you need to adjust the seasoning. A pinch more salt or a dash of pepper can really elevate the flavors.
Don’t skip the browning: Browning the meatballs is key! It adds a delicious depth of flavor to the soup, so take the time to get that nice crust on them.
Adjust for your taste: If you like a little kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the broth. On the flip side, if you prefer milder flavors, just tone down the garlic or Italian seasoning.
Storage tips: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. If you plan to have leftovers, I recommend cooking the rigatoni separately and adding it to individual bowls when serving. This way, it won’t get mushy!
Freezing: You can freeze the soup too! Just leave out the pasta, let it cool, and store it in freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw and reheat, then add fresh rigatoni for that al dente texture.
Fresh herbs: Fresh basil adds a wonderful flavor, but if you can’t find it, dried herbs work too. Just remember to use less since dried herbs are more concentrated.

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to creating a comforting and delicious rigatoni meatball soup that everyone will love!

Variations of the Rigatoni Meatball Soup Recipe

Now, let’s talk about some fun ways to mix things up with this rigatoni meatball soup recipe! I love how versatile this dish can be, so don’t hesitate to get creative. Here are a few variations that you might enjoy:

Different Meats: If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. They’ll work beautifully and still give you those lovely meatballs. You could even try a mix of meats for a richer flavor!
Veggie Boost: Want to sneak in more veggies? Dice up some zucchini or bell peppers to add in with the other vegetables. Spinach or kale can also be tossed in during the last few minutes of cooking for a pop of green!
Italian Sausage: For a punch of flavor, consider using Italian sausage instead of ground beef. Just remove the casings and crumble it into the pot. It’ll add an amazing spice and depth to the soup!
Different Pasta: While rigatoni is fantastic, don’t be afraid to experiment with other pasta shapes. Shells, fusilli, or even elbow macaroni can work well. Just keep an eye on the cooking times, as they can vary.
Herb Variations: If you’re a fan of herbs, try adding fresh oregano or thyme to the mix for an aromatic twist. They add a lovely flavor that can brighten up the soup!
Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the broth or mix in some diced jalapeños with the veggies for an extra zing!
Cheesy Delight: For a creamy version, stir in some cream or half-and-half at the end, or sprinkle a generous amount of mozzarella cheese on top before serving. Melty cheese makes everything better!

These variations are just a starting point. The beauty of this soup is that you can truly make it your own, so don’t be afraid to let your imagination run wild. Enjoy experimenting and finding your favorite combo!

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions I get about this rigatoni meatball soup recipe, along with my answers to help you out!

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day in advance, and the flavors will deepen as it sits in the fridge. Just remember to store the pasta separately if you plan to have leftovers, as it can get mushy when reheated.

What if I don’t have beef broth?

No worries! If you’re out of beef broth, you can use chicken broth or even vegetable broth. The soup will still taste fantastic, just with a slightly different flavor profile. You could also make your own broth if you have the time—homemade is always a treat!

Can I use frozen meatballs?

Yes! If you’re in a pinch, frozen meatballs work great. Just add them to the pot after sautéing the veggies, and let them cook through in the broth. It’s a quick and easy shortcut!

How do I know when the pasta is done?

Good question! I recommend checking the rigatoni a couple of minutes before the time is up. You want it to be al dente, which means it should have a little bite to it. Taste a piece to be sure—it’s the best way to know!

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Of course! To make a delicious vegetarian version, simply leave out the meatballs and use veggie broth instead of beef broth. You can add in more vegetables or even some beans for protein. It’ll still be hearty and satisfying!

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you can, keep the rigatoni separate from the soup to maintain its texture. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat on the stove or in the microwave!

Can I freeze the soup?

Yes! Just make sure to leave out the pasta and let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat, then add fresh rigatoni!

Hopefully, these answers help you feel more confident in making my rigatoni meatball soup recipe. If you have any other questions, feel free to ask—I’m here to help! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This rigatoni meatball soup recipe is one of those dishes that just hits the spot every time! Here are some key reasons why I think you’ll absolutely adore it:

Hearty and Filling: With robust meatballs, pasta, and veggies, this soup is a complete meal in a bowl. It’s perfect for those days when you need something warm and satisfying!
Rich, Flavorful Broth: The combination of beef broth and diced tomatoes creates a rich, savory base that’s bursting with flavor. You’ll find yourself wanting to sip the broth straight from the bowl!
Simple Preparation: This recipe is so straightforward! Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find that it’s easy to follow and comes together in just about 45 minutes.
Customizable: Whether you want to switch up the meat, add more veggies, or try different pasta shapes, this soup is incredibly versatile. It’s a great way to use what you have on hand!
Perfect for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. It’s an excellent make-ahead meal for busy weeknights!
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this dish! It’s a great way to get your family excited about eating a hearty, wholesome meal.
Comfort in a Bowl: On a chilly evening, there’s just nothing like curling up with a warm bowl of rigatoni meatball soup. It’s pure comfort food at its finest!

Seriously, once you try it, you’ll see why this recipe has a special place in my heart (and my kitchen!).

rigatoni meatball soup recipe - detail 1

For more delicious pasta recipes, check out my Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta or Baked Ziti with Meatballs.

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.