Mama Mia Meatball Soup

Why do I call this one Mama Mia Meatball Soup? Because, mama mia is it good! Sorry, was that too cheesy?

Now, hold on before you roll your eyes at the cheesy name. 🙄 This soup is the real deal – a flavor explosion in a bowl that will have you saying "Mama Mia!" (without the cringe). Think juicy meatballs simmered in a rich tomato broth, with a touch of sweetness and a kick of Italian spice and of course PASTA! It's basically a hug in a mug (or bowl), the ultimate comfort food.

Recipe: Meatball Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 pound meatballs (Click link for recipe, or use frozen)

• 1 tablespoon avocado oil

• 1/2 medium onion diced

• 4 cloves garlic minced

• 1 (28 fluid ounce) can crushed tomatoes... I used fire roasted

• 4 cups water

• 4 t better than bouillon, beef

• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional

• 1.5 cups fusilli pasta

• Salt & pepper to taste

• Parmesan cheese (for serving) optional, to taste

Directions:

1. Drizzle some oil in a soup pot. Toss in the onions and sauté them for 4-5 minutes, until they're looking nice and caramelized.

2. Add the garlic and cook it for 30 seconds, until fragrant.

3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, water, beef bouillon, brown sugar, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (add more if you like things spicy). Don't forget the meatballs! Crank the heat to medium-high and bring it all to a boil.

4. Once the soup's boiling, throw in your pasta of choice.

5. Reduce the heat and simmer the soup, for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is perfectly cooked through. Give it a stir every now and then to make sure nothing's sticking to the bottom. Heads up: Some crushed tomato brands are thicker than others. If your soup gets too thick, just add some more water + beef bouillon – this soup is all about that brothy goodness.

6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.