Concrete Mixer-Inspired Meatball Soup

By AislePrompt Editorial · Published 2026-06-26 · Updated 2026-06-26

A hearty meatball soup inspired by the robust tools of construction, blending rich beef meatballs in a savory tomato broth with herbs. This Italian-inspired soup recipe, ready in about 45 minutes, pairs ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk for a weeknight-friendly dinner that comes together with one pan and minimal cleanup. Each serving lands at about 350 calories and feeds 6, so it slots cleanly into a weekly meal plan and pairs well with a quick salad or grain on the side. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 3 minced garlic cloves
• 1 small diced onion
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 medium diced carrots
• 2 diced celery stalks
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves

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Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine 1 lb ground beef, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup milk, 1 large beaten egg, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tsp dried oregano. Mix gently until just combined.
2. Step 2: Form the mixture into 1-inch meatballs, about 24 pieces, and set aside.
3. Step 3: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 small diced onion, 2 diced carrots, and 2 diced celery stalks. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until vegetables are softened and onions are translucent.
4. Step 4: Pour in 28 oz crushed tomatoes and 4 cups beef broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
5. Step 5: Carefully add the meatballs to the simmering broth one by one. Cover and cook for 15 minutes until meatballs are cooked through and the soup is flavorful.
6. Step 6: Stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with crusty bread.