1️⃣ Preparation: If you need to make meatballs from scratch, follow your preferred recipe or use store-bought ones. Note that making meatballs from scratch is not included in the prep time. 🍖

2️⃣ Sauté Onions: Add the olive oil and chopped onions to a soup pot over medium-high heat. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent. 🧅

3️⃣ Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. 🧄

4️⃣ Add Tomatoes & Broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Stir to combine. 🍅🥣

5️⃣ Add Vegetables & Seasoning: Add the chopped red bell pepper, Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and meatballs. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. 🌶️🌿

6️⃣ Cook Pasta: Once the soup is boiling, add the fusilli pasta. 🍝

7️⃣ Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and simmer the soup, covered with the lid slightly open, for about 15 minutes or until the pasta is cooked. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom. Note: If the soup becomes too thick, add more beef broth to achieve the desired consistency. 🕒

8️⃣ Finish & Serve: Stir in the fresh basil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the soup hot, optionally topped with grated Parmesan cheese. 🌿🧂🧀