Italian Wedding Soup

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Italian Wedding Soup is a comforting, hearty soup that features tender meatballs, leafy greens like spinach or escarole, and small pasta, all simmered in a flavorful broth. The meatballs are usually made from a mixture of ground beef, seasoned with herbs and Parmesan cheese, adding a savory richness to the soup. The broth is light but full of depth, often enhanced with garlic, onions, and a splash of chicken broth. The soup is a perfect balance of savory, herbal, and comforting flavors.

I first made Italian Wedding Soup when I was craving something warming and satisfying, and it quickly became a favorite in my home. The combination of the juicy meatballs, tender greens, and rich broth is simply irresistible, and it’s a great way to get in some vegetables while enjoying a cozy, filling meal. What I love most about this recipe is how customizable it is—you can use different greens, pasta, or even swap in turkey for a leaner option. Whether for a cold evening or a holiday gathering, Italian Wedding Soup is the ultimate comfort food!

Perfect for:

  • Family dinners
  • Cozy winter nights
  • Meal prepping
  • Quick weekday lunches
  • Celebrating Italian culinary traditions

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why this Italian Wedding Soup deserves a spot in your recipe rotation:

  • Hearty and Nutritious: A complete meal with meat, veggies, and pasta.
  • Comforting Broth: The savory chicken broth warms you from the inside out.
  • Tender Meatballs: Homemade meatballs add a rich, savory flavor.
  • Easy to Customize: Swap in your favorite greens or pasta shapes.
  • Quick to Make: Ready in under an hour for a delicious and satisfying meal.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for easy meals.
  • Great for Meal Prep: Keeps well in the fridge for days, perfect for planning ahead.
  • Kid-Friendly: The small pasta and tender meatballs appeal to picky eaters.
  • Traditional Yet Versatile: A timeless recipe that adapts to modern tastes.
  • Perfect Balance of Flavors: A harmonious blend of savory, salty, and herby goodness.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 6 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 20g, Carbs: 25g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

For the Meatballs:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Soup:

  • 8 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup small pasta (e.g., acini di pepe, orzo)
  • 4 cups fresh spinach or escarole, chopped
  • 1 medium carrot, diced
  • 1 celery stalk, diced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Ingredient Highlights

  • Ground Meat: Choose a mix of beef and turkey for flavorful meatballs.
  • Fresh Greens: Spinach or escarole adds a burst of color and nutrients.
  • Acini di Pepe Pasta: Small pasta ensures every spoonful is well-balanced.
  • Chicken Broth: The base of the soup, providing depth and warmth.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Meatballs:

  1. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
  2. Shape Meatballs: Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs and set aside on a plate.

Prepare the Soup Base:

  1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.

Cook the Meatballs and Pasta:

  1. Simmer Meatballs: Gently add the meatballs to the boiling broth. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
  2. Cook Pasta: Add the pasta and cook for another 8-10 minutes or until tender.

Add Greens and Finish:

  1. Stir in Greens: Add spinach or escarole and simmer for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
  2. Season to Taste: Adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Serve:

  1. Garnish and Enjoy: Ladle soup into bowls, top with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley, and serve hot.

How to Serve

Here are 9 serving suggestions for Italian Wedding Soup:

  • With Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping and soaking up the broth.
  • As a Starter: Serve small portions before the main course.
  • Paired with Salad: Complement with a light Caesar or garden salad.
  • With Extra Parmesan: Let guests sprinkle more cheese as desired.
  • For Meal Prep: Divide into containers for ready-to-go lunches.
  • With Garlic Toast: Elevate the meal with buttery, crisp toast.
  • As Comfort Food: Pair with a warm blanket and cozy setting.
  • For Potlucks: Easy to transport and sure to impress.
  • As a Light Dinner: Serve with a side of roasted vegetables.

Additional Tips

  • Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh parsley and basil to the meatballs or broth can elevate the flavor and add a vibrant, aromatic touch.
  • Avoid Overcooking the Greens: Add the spinach or kale in the final minutes of cooking to maintain their color and texture.
  • Use Chicken Broth for Richness: For a deeper flavor, use homemade chicken broth or a high-quality store-bought version to enhance the taste of the soup.
  • Season the Meatballs Well: Don’t skimp on seasoning your meatballs with garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning to ensure they’re full of flavor.
  • Grate Parmesan for Extra Depth: Grating fresh Parmesan into the soup before serving adds a salty, savory finish that enhances the overall flavor.
  • Make the Meatballs Small: Keeping the meatballs small ensures they cook evenly and blend well with the soup’s delicate broth.
  • Use Both Ground Turkey and Beef: For more flavor and tenderness, mix ground turkey with beef for the meatballs instead of using just one type of meat.
  • Simmer Low and Slow: Let the soup simmer gently to allow the flavors to develop without overcooking the ingredients.
  • Add a Dash of Nutmeg: A pinch of freshly grated nutmeg in the meatballs or broth can add a warm, subtle spice that enhances the dish.
  • Serve with Crusty Bread: Pair the soup with warm, crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the flavorful broth.

Recipe Variations

  • Turkey Meatballs: Substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
  • Vegetarian Version: Use plant-based meatballs and vegetable broth.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Swap pasta for gluten-free alternatives.
  • Keto-Friendly: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles or omit entirely.
  • Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced chili for heat.
  • Herb Twist: Incorporate fresh basil or oregano for extra flavor.
  • Lemon Zest: Add a hint of lemon for a refreshing touch.
  • Cheesy Surprise: Stuff meatballs with a small cube of mozzarella.
  • Broth Swap: Try beef or vegetable broth for a different flavor profile.
  • Add Beans: White beans like cannellini for added texture and protein.

Special Equipment

  • Large Pot: Essential for cooking the soup and meatballs together.
  • Mixing Bowl: For preparing the meatball mixture.
  • Cookie Scoop: To ensure evenly sized meatballs.
  • Ladle: For easy serving.
  • Fine Mesh Sieve: Optional for straining broth if needed.
  • Storage Containers: To store leftovers or meal-prepped portions.

FAQ Section

  1. Can I use pre-made meatballs?
    Yes, pre-made meatballs can save time, though homemade adds more flavor.
  2. How do I store leftovers?
    Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  3. Can I freeze Italian Wedding Soup?
    Absolutely! Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
  4. What greens work best?
    Spinach, escarole, or kale are all great options.
  5. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
    Yes, use vegetable broth and plant-based meatballs.
  6. What’s the best pasta substitute?
    Rice, quinoa, or small diced potatoes work well.
  7. How do I keep pasta from getting mushy?
    Cook pasta separately and add it just before serving.
  8. Can I add other vegetables?
    Sure, diced zucchini or mushrooms would be delicious additions.
  9. How do I reheat the soup?
    Warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
  10. Is this soup spicy?
    Not traditionally, but you can add chili flakes for some heat.

Conclusion

Italian Wedding Soup is a warm, comforting dish that combines tender meatballs, vibrant vegetables, and delicate pasta in a flavorful, savory broth. The meatballs are typically made from a mix of ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and herbs, offering a savory and juicy bite. The soup is then filled with vegetables like spinach or kale and small pasta, such as acini di pepe, all simmered in a rich chicken broth that brings the flavors together perfectly.

The dish gets its name not from a wedding, but from the Italian phrase “minestra maritata,” which translates to “married soup,” referring to the way the flavors of the meat and greens complement each other so beautifully. It’s perfect for chilly days, and its light yet satisfying nature makes it ideal for any meal. You can also adjust the recipe by adding more vegetables or a splash of lemon juice for a bit of brightness. This soup is a great option for meal prep, and you can easily freeze leftovers for a future cozy meal.

I can’t wait to see how your Italian Wedding Soup turns out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your delicious creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this soup your own!