Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown it.

Step 2: Build the Base

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, chopped red bell pepper, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Add your meatballs into the pot and stir gently. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.

Step 3: Add Pasta and Simmer

Once boiling, add the uncooked fusilli pasta. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar. Cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the pasta does not stick to the bottom of the pot. If the soup becomes too thick, add a splash more beef broth.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Once the pasta is tender, stir in the fresh basil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and serve immediately with a generous grating of Parmesan cheese on top.

Pro Tips

• To ensure the best texture for your Simple Meatball Soup, avoid overcooking the pasta; aim for al dente so it holds its shape in the broth.
• If using homemade meatballs, make a larger batch and freeze half for future meals.
• Taste your broth before adding salt, as store-bought broth and canned tomatoes can vary in sodium content.
• For a lighter soup, remove excess grease from the pot after browning the meatballs if you choose to sear them beforehand.