If you are looking for a comforting and hearty dish that warms you from the inside out, this Turkey Meatball Soup is an absolute must-try. Bursting with tender, juicy turkey meatballs nestled in a vibrant, vegetable-packed broth with tender pasta, it’s the perfect blend of wholesome flavors and satisfying textures that feel like a warm hug in a bowl. This Turkey Meatball Soup is simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough to impress family and friends, making it a personal favorite I love sharing with everyone.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for this Turkey Meatball Soup is a breeze because each element plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the lean ground turkey to the fresh herbs, every single item enhances the soup’s inviting character and makes it so deliciously comforting.

1 pound ground turkey, extra lean: Provides tender, healthy protein and the base for juicy meatballs.
1 small onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth to both the meatballs and broth.
1 large egg: Binds the meatballs together for perfect shape and texture.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Seasoning that brings out the flavors in the meatballs.
Ground black pepper, to taste: Adds a gentle kick and enhances overall flavor.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for frying meatballs to golden perfection.
2 large carrots, chopped: Introduce natural sweetness and vibrant color.
2 large celery stalks, chopped: Adds aromatic crunch and freshness to the broth.
2 cups potatoes, cubed (about 11 ounces): Give body and creaminess as they cook down in the soup.
8 cups vegetable or chicken broth, low sodium: The savory base that ties all ingredients together.
2 teaspoons oil: For sautéing the vegetables.
2 cups short pasta like shells or macaroni, uncooked (6 ounces): Adds bite and makes the soup extra filling.
3 bay leaves: Infuse the soup with subtle herbal notes.
3/4 teaspoon salt: Season soup perfectly without overpowering.
Fresh parsley, dill, or green onions (1/3 cup, finely chopped): Brighten the soup with fresh, vibrant green flavors.

How to Make Turkey Meatball Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture

Start by pureeing the small onion, egg, salt, and pepper either in a food processor or blender until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, grate the onion and mix it with the other ingredients. Transfer this mixture into a medium bowl, add the ground turkey, and combine thoroughly using your hands. This ensures even seasoning and flavor in every meatball.

Step 2: Cook the Meatballs

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a Dutch oven or large skillet over medium heat. Use a small scoop or tablespoon to form golf ball–sized meatballs, spacing them comfortably in the pan. Fry each side for about a minute until golden brown—this only takes a moment so keep an eye on them! It’s important to get a nice sear on the meatballs to lock in juiciness. Once browned, transfer to a plate and repeat with the rest, adding more oil as needed.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add two teaspoons of oil and toss in the chopped carrots and celery. Sauté these for about three minutes, stirring occasionally so they become fragrant and just start to soften, setting the stage for your rich broth.

Step 4: Build the Soup

Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring everything to a rolling boil. Add the cubed potatoes, browned meatballs, uncooked pasta, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Cover the pot, reduce the heat to very low, and simmer gently for 12 minutes. This simmer gives the flavors a chance to meld beautifully and lets the pasta cook perfectly without becoming mushy.

Step 5: Let It Rest and Add Fresh Herbs

Once done, turn off the heat and leave the soup covered for another 10 minutes. This resting time helps the ingredients marry, thickens the broth slightly, and yields a soup with rich, harmonious flavors. Finally, stir in freshly chopped parsley, dill, or green onions just before serving to add a burst of freshness and color.

How to Serve Turkey Meatball Soup

Garnishes

Top your Turkey Meatball Soup with freshly cracked black pepper and an extra sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill to elevate the aromas and visual appeal. For a creamy touch, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese works beautifully too, adding a lovely richness that pairs well with the savory meatballs.

Side Dishes

This soup stands wonderfully on its own but pairs exceptionally with crusty bread or garlic toast, perfect for soaking up every last bit of that flavorful broth. A simple side salad with crisp greens and a light vinaigrette balances the heartiness of the soup, making it a complete and satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Turkey Meatball Soup in individual mini dutch ovens or rustic bread bowls—this presentation makes the meal feel extra special and cozy. Alternatively, ladle the soup over a bed of steamed rice or spoon it alongside a grilled cheese sandwich for an elevated comfort-food pairing that everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Turkey Meatball Soup keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors often develop even more depth after a day, making the next meal just as delightful. Just be sure to cool the soup before refrigerating to keep it fresh and safe.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup to enjoy later by placing it into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room for expansion. It freezes well for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before gently reheating to preserve the delicate texture of the meatballs and pasta.

Reheating

Reheat your Turkey Meatball Soup slowly on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens too much or the pasta soaks up the broth, simply add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. Avoid microwaving at high heat as it can dry out the meatballs and make the pasta mushy.

FAQs

Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken is a great substitute and will work just as well for the meatballs, providing a similar lean and mild flavor to keep this soup delicious.

What type of pasta works best in Turkey Meatball Soup?

Short pasta shapes like shells, elbow macaroni, or small penne are ideal because they cook quickly and nestle nicely with the meatballs, creating great texture in each bite.

Is this soup freezer friendly once the pasta is added?

While you can freeze the soup after cooking, for the best texture it’s recommended to freeze the soup without the pasta and add fresh pasta when reheating to avoid mushiness.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the pasta for a gluten-free variety and ensure your broth is gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

How do I keep the meatballs from falling apart?

Using an egg to bind the meatballs and gently browning them before adding to the soup helps them hold together perfectly during cooking. Avoid stirring too vigorously once in the soup to keep them intact.

Final Thoughts

Making this Turkey Meatball Soup feels like crafting a little bowl of happiness filled with nurturing flavors and cozy vibes. Whether you’re in need of a quick weeknight meal or something special to share, this recipe is failproof and fulfills all the cravings for warmth and comfort. I truly hope you enjoy making and savoring this Turkey Meatball Soup as much as I do—here’s to many delicious bowls ahead!