Italian Wedding Soup

Name: Italian Wedding Soup: Discover the Secret Recipe Today!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 pound ground pork; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1 egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 8 cups chicken broth; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 cup small pasta (like acini di pepe); Salt and pepper to taste

Posted on September 4, 2025

Dinner

Introduction to Italian Wedding Soup

Welcome to the cozy world of Italian Wedding Soup! This delightful dish is like a warm hug on a chilly day. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma filled my kitchen, and my family couldn’t wait to dig in. It’s perfect for busy moms like us, offering a quick solution for dinner without sacrificing flavor. With hearty meatballs, vibrant greens, and tender pasta, this soup is sure to impress your loved ones. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a special occasion, Italian Wedding Soup brings everyone together around the table.

Why You’ll Love This Italian Wedding Soup

This Italian Wedding Soup is a game-changer for busy nights. It’s not just quick to prepare; it’s also packed with flavor that warms the soul. The combination of tender meatballs, fresh greens, and comforting pasta creates a symphony of tastes in every spoonful. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, making cleanup a breeze. You’ll love how it brings your family together, creating moments that matter over a delicious meal.

Ingredients for Italian Wedding Soup

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating a delicious Italian Wedding Soup. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground beef: This adds a rich flavor and hearty texture to the meatballs.
Ground pork: A touch of pork enhances the meatballs’ juiciness and depth of flavor.
Grated Parmesan cheese: This brings a savory, nutty taste that elevates the meatballs.

Breadcrumbs: They help bind the meatballs together while keeping them tender.
Egg: A crucial ingredient for binding the meat mixture, ensuring your meatballs hold their shape.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a fragrant kick that complements the other flavors beautifully.

Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuses the soup with classic Italian flavors.
Chicken broth: The base of the soup, providing warmth and depth; homemade is best, but store-bought works too.
Fresh spinach: This leafy green adds color, nutrition, and a slight earthiness to the dish.

Small pasta (like acini di pepe): Tiny pasta shapes soak up the broth and add a delightful texture.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing all the flavors in the soup.

For those looking to customize, consider using turkey instead of beef and pork for a lighter version. You can also toss in other vegetables like carrots or celery for added flavor and nutrition. If you’re curious about exact measurements, they’re listed at the bottom of the article and available for printing!

How to Make Italian Wedding Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

Let’s start by making those delicious meatballs! In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. I like to use my hands for this part; it’s the best way to mix everything thoroughly. Once combined, form the mixture into small balls, about the size of a golf ball. This step is crucial, as the meatballs will be the heart of your Italian Wedding Soup!

Step 2: Boil the Broth

Next, grab a large pot and pour in the chicken broth. Bring it to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. This step is essential because the boiling broth will cook the meatballs evenly and infuse the soup with flavor. The aroma of the broth bubbling away is simply irresistible! Once it’s boiling, you’re ready for the next step.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs

Now it’s time to add those beautiful meatballs to the boiling broth. Gently drop them in one by one, being careful not to overcrowd the pot. Let them cook for about 10 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they float to the top and are cooked through. This is where the magic happens, as the meatballs release their savory goodness into the broth!

Step 4: Add the Pasta

Once the meatballs are cooked, it’s time to add the small pasta. I love using acini di pepe, but any small pasta will do. Stir it into the pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. This step adds a delightful texture to your Italian Wedding Soup, making it even more comforting and filling.

Step 5: Incorporate the Greens

After the pasta is cooked to perfection, it’s time to add the fresh spinach. Toss it into the pot and stir until it wilts, which should take just a couple of minutes. This step not only adds a pop of color but also boosts the nutritional value of your soup. Plus, who doesn’t love a little greenery in their bowl?

Step 6: Final Seasoning

Finally, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. A pinch more salt or a dash of pepper can make all the difference. Once you’re satisfied, serve the soup hot, garnished with extra Parmesan if you like. Your Italian Wedding Soup is now ready to warm hearts and bellies!

Tips for Success

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor; it makes a noticeable difference.
Don’t skip the resting time for the meatballs; it helps them hold their shape.

Adjust the broth to your taste; add more or less depending on your preference.
For a heartier soup, add more pasta or greens.
Make a double batch and freeze leftovers for a quick meal later!

Equipment Needed

Large pot: A sturdy pot is essential for making the soup. A Dutch oven works great too!
Mixing bowl: Use a large bowl for combining the meatball ingredients. A deep dish can also do the trick.

Spoon or spatula: A wooden spoon is perfect for stirring the soup and meatballs.
Measuring cups and spoons: Handy for precise ingredient measurements, but you can eyeball it if you’re confident!

Variations of Italian Wedding Soup

Turkey Meatballs: Swap out the beef and pork for ground turkey for a lighter option that still packs a punch of flavor.

Vegetarian Version: Replace meatballs with chickpeas or lentils and use vegetable broth for a hearty, plant-based soup.
Extra Veggies: Add diced carrots, celery, or zucchini for more nutrition and a colorful presentation.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for those who enjoy a little heat in their soup.

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.

Serving Suggestions for Italian Wedding Soup

Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm, crusty baguette or garlic bread for dipping.
Salad: Pair with a simple green salad dressed in olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Wine: A glass of white wine, like Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors beautifully.
Garnish: Top with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a lovely presentation.

FAQs about Italian Wedding Soup

What is Italian Wedding Soup?

Italian Wedding Soup is a hearty dish made with flavorful meatballs, fresh greens, and small pasta, all simmered in a savory chicken broth. Despite its name, it’s not served at weddings; rather, it symbolizes the marriage of flavors in a comforting bowl.

Can I make Italian Wedding Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat it gently on the stove before serving. It’s perfect for meal prep, making busy weeknights a breeze!

What can I substitute for the meat in Italian Wedding Soup?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey works wonderfully. For a vegetarian twist, try using chickpeas or lentils instead of meatballs. Both options maintain the soup’s heartiness while catering to different dietary preferences.

How do I store leftovers of Italian Wedding Soup?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze the soup in portions. Just remember to leave out the pasta if you plan to freeze it, as it can become mushy when thawed.

Can I add more vegetables to the soup?

Definitely! Feel free to add diced carrots, celery, or even zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor. The beauty of Italian Wedding Soup is its versatility, allowing you to customize it to your liking!

Final Thoughts

Making Italian Wedding Soup is more than just cooking; it’s about creating memories. The joy of watching my family gather around the table, eagerly awaiting a warm bowl of this comforting soup, fills my heart with happiness. Each spoonful is a reminder of love, tradition, and the simple pleasures of life. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a special occasion, this recipe brings warmth and togetherness. I hope you find as much joy in making and sharing this Italian Wedding Soup as I do. It’s a dish that truly nourishes both the body and the soul!