This Italian Wedding Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that blends flavorful meatballs, fresh spinach, and al dente pasta in a savory broth. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe brings the warmth of Italian cuisine right to your kitchen. Whether you choose to make it on the stove top or in a crock pot, you’ll enjoy a satisfying meal that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious soup in no time.
- Flavorful Comfort: The combination of tender meatballs and rich broth creates a warm and inviting dish perfect for chilly evenings.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main course or as an appetizer at gatherings; it’s sure to please any crowd.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with spinach and lean meats, this soup is not only tasty but also nutritious.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools on hand is essential. Below are the key tools you’ll need for making Italian Wedding Soup.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot or Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering the soup evenly while allowing ample space for all ingredients.
- Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining meatball ingredients without mess.
- Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping vegetables efficiently.
Ingredients
This classic Italian Wedding Soup recipe has savory meatballs in a flavorful broth with spinach and pasta! It’s easy to make on the stove top or in the crock pot!
For the Meatballs
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- ½ lb. ground beef (85% lean)
- ½ lb. ground pork
- 1 egg (beaten)
- 1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/3 cup fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
For the Soup Base
- 1 yellow onion (diced)
- 1 ¼ cups carrots (diced)
- 2 celery ribs (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Final Touches
- ¾ cup acini de pepe pasta (uncooked)
- 4-5 cups fresh spinach
- salt/pepper (to taste)
- Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
How to Make Italian Wedding Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined but do not overwork the mixture.
- Form into small meatballs about 1 inch in diameter.
Step 2: Brown the Meatballs
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add meatballs in batches to avoid overcrowding; brown them on all sides for about 5 minutes.
- Remove browned meatballs from the pot and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
- In the same pot, add diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic.
- Sauté until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Add Italian seasoning then reduce heat; simmer for 10 minutes.
Step 5: Cook Pasta and Spinach
- Stir in acini de pepe pasta; cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Add fresh spinach just before serving; stir until wilted.
Step 6: Serve with Toppings
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Ladle soup into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Enjoy your homemade Italian Wedding Soup!
How to Serve Italian Wedding Soup
Italian Wedding Soup is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal experience.
With Crusty Bread
- Serve with a side of warm, crusty bread for dipping. The bread absorbs the flavorful broth beautifully.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Top each bowl with extra fresh parsley or basil. This adds a pop of color and enhances the soup’s aroma.
Parmesan Cheese Topping
- Offer freshly grated Parmesan cheese on the side. A sprinkle just before serving adds richness and depth.
Accompanied by Salad
- Pair with a light green salad dressed in vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the hearty soup perfectly.
Served in Bread Bowls
- For a fun twist, serve your Italian Wedding Soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. It’s both delicious and visually appealing.
How to Perfect Italian Wedding Soup
To achieve the best flavor and texture for your Italian Wedding Soup, consider these helpful tips.
- Use high-quality broth: A good chicken broth enhances the overall taste of the soup. Homemade or low-sodium options are great choices.
- Mix meats for flavor: Combining ground beef and pork creates a richer flavor in the meatballs.
- Don’t skip the herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley bring brightness to your soup. Dried herbs can be used but may lack vibrancy.
- Add pasta at the right time: Cook acini de pepe pasta separately if you want it al dente; add it to the soup last to avoid overcooking.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for optimal flavor.
- Let it sit: Allowing the soup to rest for a few minutes before serving helps meld all flavors together.
Best Side Dishes for Italian Wedding Soup
Italian Wedding Soup pairs wonderfully with several side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options to consider:
- Garlic Bread – This classic side is perfect for soaking up every drop of delicious broth.
- Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add brightness and acidity.
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing provides a nice crunch alongside your soup.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized offer an earthy contrast to the rich soup.
- Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory stuffed mushrooms make for an elegant appetizer that harmonizes well with your main dish.
- Cheesy Polenta – Creamy polenta topped with cheese is a comforting side that pairs beautifully with hearty soups.
- Antipasto Platter – A mix of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables creates an appealing start to your meal.
- Focaccia Bread – Soft and fluffy focaccia offers an aromatic addition that’s perfect for dipping into Italian Wedding Soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Italian Wedding Soup can be a delightful experience, but common mistakes may hinder the final dish.
- Ignoring meatball quality: Using low-quality meat can lead to tough meatballs. Choose fresh and lean ground beef and pork for the best texture.
- Overcooking the pasta: Adding pasta too early can result in mushy noodles. Cook acini de pepe separately or add it just before serving.
- Skipping seasoning adjustments: Not tasting your broth can lead to bland soup. Always adjust salt and pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Neglecting fresh ingredients: Using wilted or old spinach affects the soup’s freshness. Always opt for bright, fresh greens for the best taste.
- Rushing the cooking process: Cooking on high heat can ruin the soup’s depth of flavor. Allow it to simmer gently for richer taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Italian Wedding Soup in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Italian Wedding Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Italian Wedding Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish, covered, for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a pot, stirring frequently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Italian Wedding Soup that many home cooks ask.
What is Italian Wedding Soup?
Italian Wedding Soup is a comforting dish made with savory meatballs, flavorful broth, leafy greens, and small pasta.
Can I use different types of greens in Italian Wedding Soup?
Yes! While spinach is traditional, you can substitute with kale or Swiss chard for a different flavor profile.
How do I make Italian Wedding Soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of Italian Wedding Soup, swap meatballs with plant-based options and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Is Italian Wedding Soup healthy?
Absolutely! With lean meats, vegetables, and nutrient-rich broth, it’s a wholesome choice packed with flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Italian Wedding Soup recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spices according to your taste. Give it a try – it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Italian Wedding Soup
Experience the warmth of Italian cuisine with this Italian Wedding Soup, a comforting blend of savory meatballs, vibrant spinach, and tender pasta simmered in a rich broth. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, this soup is easy to make on the stovetop or in a slow cooker. Its hearty ingredients create a satisfying meal that delights all palates. Each bowl offers a taste of tradition and love, making it an ideal choice for chilly evenings. Discover the simple joy of crafting this beloved dish right in your kitchen.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- ½ lb ground beef (85% lean)
- ½ lb ground pork
- 1 egg (beaten)
- 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- ¾ cup acini de pepe pasta
- 1 yellow onion (diced)
- 1 ¼ cups carrots (diced)
- 2 celery ribs (diced)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently and form into small meatballs.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and brown the meatballs for about 5 minutes; set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic until tender.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil; add Italian seasoning and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in acini de pepe pasta and cook until al dente. Add fresh spinach just before serving until wilted.
- Adjust seasoning as needed and serve with grated Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 885mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
