This Italian Wedding Soup is a delightful blend of savory meatballs, fresh spinach, and tender pasta in a comforting broth. Perfect for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress guests with a delicious homemade meal. The combination of flavors and textures creates a warm dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Preparation: This Italian Wedding Soup can be made in just under an hour, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
- Flavor-Packed: The hearty meatballs and rich broth are infused with Italian seasoning, ensuring every spoonful bursts with flavor.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize your soup by adding different vegetables or herbs based on what you have on hand.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the satisfying mix of meat and veggies, making it perfect for family meals.
- Great for Meal Prep: This soup reheats beautifully, so you can make it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delectable Italian Wedding Soup, having the right tools makes the process smoother. Gather your kitchen essentials before starting.
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 cooking soups evenly and allowing ample space for all ingredients.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for preparing the meatball mixture without mess.
- Knife and cutting board: Crucial for efficiently chopping vegetables to enhance texture in your soup.
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!
Meatballs
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- ½ lb. ground beef (85% lean)
- ½ lb. ground pork
- 1 egg (beaten)
- ½ cup Italian breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- ⅓ cup fresh parsley (finely chopped)
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
Vegetables
- 1 yellow onion (diced)
- 1 ¼ cups carrots (diced)
- 2 celery ribs (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
Broth and Pasta
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- ¾ cup acini de pepe pasta (uncooked)
Greens
- 4-5 cups fresh spinach
Seasoning
- Salt/pepper (to taste)
- Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
How to Make Italian Wedding Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until fully combined but avoid overworking the meat mixture.
- Roll into small meatballs about 1 inch in diameter.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic; sauté until vegetables are soft—about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Meatballs
- Gently add the prepared meatballs to the pot with sautéed vegetables.
- Brown the meatballs on all sides for about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Add Broth and Seasonings
- Pour in chicken broth and stir in Italian seasoning.
- Bring to a boil; then reduce heat to simmer for about 10 minutes.
Step 5: Add Pasta and Spinach
- Stir in acini de pepe pasta; cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually about 8-10 minutes.
- Once pasta is cooked, add fresh spinach until wilted—approximately 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Final Seasoning & Serve
- Taste your soup; adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve hot with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor!
Enjoy your comforting bowl of Italian Wedding Soup that’s sure to become a favorite!
How to Serve Italian Wedding Soup
Italian Wedding Soup is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with different accompaniments that enhance the flavors and make the meal more satisfying.
With Crusty Bread
- Garlic Bread: Toasted bread with garlic butter adds a delicious crunch.
- French Baguette: Sliced and served warm, perfect for dipping in the broth.
With Salad
- Caesar Salad: A creamy dressing and crunchy croutons complement the soup’s flavors.
- Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette offers a fresh contrast to the warmth of the soup.
With Cheese
- Parmesan Reggiano: Freshly grated on top adds a rich, nutty flavor.
- Mozzarella Balls: These can be added directly to the bowl for a melty treat.
With Pasta
- Garlic Butter Pasta: Simple pasta tossed in garlic butter mirrors the ingredients in the soup.
- Pesto Pasta: Offers a vibrant flavor that pairs well with Italian Wedding Soup.
How to Perfect Italian Wedding Soup
To achieve the best Italian Wedding Soup, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish is flavorful and authentic.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the soup’s taste significantly.
- Brown Meatballs First: Searing them develops deeper flavors before adding to the broth.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your broth before serving; adjust salt and pepper as needed for optimal flavor.
- Add Spinach Last: Incorporate fresh spinach just before serving to keep it vibrant and tender.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking improves flavor melding.
- Serve Hot: Enjoy your soup piping hot for maximum comfort and taste.
Best Side Dishes for Italian Wedding Soup
Pairing side dishes with Italian Wedding Soup elevates your meal experience. Here are some great options:
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing side.
- Antipasto Platter: A mix of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables complements the soup’s richness.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil adds a burst of freshness.
- Stuffed Peppers: Bell peppers filled with rice or meat provide a hearty addition to your meal.
- Risotto: Creamy risotto can serve as an elegant side that pairs beautifully with this soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring color and additional nutrients to your table.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Italian Wedding Soup can be simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:
- Skipping fresh herbs: Fresh parsley adds brightness. Dried herbs can’t replicate the same flavor; use fresh whenever possible.
- Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta directly in the soup can lead to mushiness. Add it separately or adjust timing for perfect texture.
- Ignoring meatball size: Consistent meatball size ensures even cooking. Make them too large or small, and they may not cook through properly.
- Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Taste as you go. Broths vary in saltiness; adjust your seasoning for the perfect balance.
- Using low-quality broth: The broth is key to rich flavor. Use homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth for the best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Italian Wedding Soup in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Italian Wedding Soup
- Freeze portions of the soup in freezer-safe containers.
- It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Italian Wedding Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, heating until warm.
- Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Italian Wedding Soup:
What is Italian Wedding Soup?
Italian Wedding Soup is a hearty dish made with flavorful meatballs, greens, and pasta in a savory broth. It’s comforting and perfect for any occasion.
Can I make Italian Wedding Soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day after flavors meld together, making it ideal for meal prep or gatherings.
How do I customize my Italian Wedding Soup?
Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap out meats. Kale or Swiss chard can be used instead of spinach for variety.
Is Italian Wedding Soup healthy?
Absolutely! With lean proteins, veggies, and whole grains from pasta, it’s a nutritious option that’s both filling and delicious.
Final Thoughts
This Italian Wedding Soup recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it to fit your taste preferences. Whether you make it on the stovetop or slow cooker, this dish promises warmth and satisfaction in every bowl.
Italian Wedding Soup
Italian Wedding Soup is a heartwarming Italian classic that combines tender meatballs, vibrant greens, and delicate pasta in a savory broth. This cozy dish is perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners, offering a delightful blend of flavors that will impress your guests. With its simple preparation and customizable ingredients, this soup is not only delicious but also a go-to comfort food that warms the soul.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- ½ lb. ground beef (85% lean)
- ½ lb. ground pork
- 1 egg (beaten)
- ½ cup Italian breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 4-5 cups fresh spinach
- ¾ cup acini de pepe pasta (uncooked)
- Diced vegetables: onion, carrots, celery
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently and form into small meatballs.
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté diced onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until soft (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add the meatballs to the pot and brown them on all sides for about 5 minutes.
- Pour in chicken broth and stir in Italian seasoning; bring to a boil then reduce to simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Add acini de pepe pasta; cook as per package instructions until al dente (approximately 8-10 minutes).
- Stir in fresh spinach until wilted (about 2-3 minutes), adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot with freshly grated Parmesan on top.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
