Italian Wedding Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy, heartwarming dish that’s perfect for everything from busy weeknights to family gatherings, this Italian Wedding Soup is just what you need. It combines savory meatballs with a rich broth, fresh spinach, and tiny pasta, making it a delightful meal that warms the soul. This soup has been a staple in my kitchen for years, and every time I make it, I’m reminded of family dinners filled with laughter and love.

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. You can whip it up in under an hour on the stovetop or let it simmer slowly in your crock pot while you go about your day. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone together, whether you’re gathered around the table on a chilly evening or serving it at a holiday feast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 25 minutes of prep time, you’ll have dinner ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves meatballs! This soup is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Deliciously Flavorful: The combination of fresh herbs, garlic, and hearty ingredients creates a soup bursting with flavor.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with veggies and protein, this soup is not only comforting but also good for you.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make this delicious Italian Wedding Soup. You probably already have most of these items in your kitchen!

For the Meatballs

• 1 Tablespoon olive oil
• ½ lb. ground beef (85% lean)
• ½ lb. ground beef
• 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

• 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
• ¾ cup acini de pepe pasta (uncooked)
• 4-5 cups fresh spinach
• Salt/pepper (to taste)
• Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)

Variations

This recipe is super flexible! Feel free to get creative with ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Change the pasta: If you can’t find acini de pepe, try small shells or orzo!
• Make it vegetarian: Substitute meatballs with your favorite plant-based option and use vegetable broth instead.

How to Make Italian Wedding Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—this will ensure tender meatballs! Shape them into small balls about one inch in diameter.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the diced onion until it’s translucent. This step brings out the sweetness of the onions and sets a flavorful base for your soup.

Step 3: Add Veggies and Broth

Once your onions are ready, add diced carrots and celery along with additional minced garlic. Stir them together for about 2-3 minutes before pouring in eight cups of chicken broth. The broth is crucial as it ties all flavors together!

Step 4: Simmer with Seasoning

Bring your soup to a gentle boil. Stir in Italian seasoning and let everything simmer for about 10 minutes so those delicious flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Cook Meatballs and Pasta

Gently drop your prepared meatballs into the simmering broth. Add uncooked acini de pepe pasta too! Let them cook for an additional 15 minutes until both are tender—this is where all that magic happens!

Step 6: Finish with Spinach

Just before serving, stir in generous handfuls of fresh spinach until wilted. This adds color and nutrients while keeping things vibrant!

And there you have it—a comforting bowl of Italian Wedding Soup ready to enjoy! Serve hot with freshly grated Parmesan on top for an extra touch of goodness. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Italian Wedding Soup

Making the perfect Italian Wedding Soup is all about the little details! Here are some pro tips to ensure your soup shines.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor significantly, giving your soup that authentic taste that frozen or canned ingredients can’t match.

• Don’t skip the browning: Sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery before adding them to the broth develops a rich base of flavor, making your soup more satisfying and delicious.

• Adjust meatball size for preference: If you prefer smaller bites, make mini meatballs; if you want heartier chunks, shape them larger. Consistency in size helps with even cooking.

• Cook pasta separately: Cooking your acini de pepe pasta separately and adding it just before serving prevents it from becoming mushy, allowing you to maintain a perfect texture in your soup.

• Add spinach at the end: Stirring in the spinach just before serving preserves its vibrant color and nutrients, ensuring each bowl is as nutritious as it is tasty!

How to Serve Italian Wedding Soup

Presenting your Italian Wedding Soup can be just as delightful as making it! Here’s how you can elevate your serving experience.

Garnishes

• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of this adds an extra layer of richness and complements the flavors beautifully.
• Chopped fresh parsley: Adding a bit of freshly chopped parsley not only brightens up the dish visually but also enhances its flavor profile with an herby freshness.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for dipping into the broth, making every bite more enjoyable.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
• Garlic bread: Crispy garlic bread pairs wonderfully with Italian dishes, providing a satisfying crunch alongside your comforting soup.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add a colorful and healthy side that complements the savory flavors of the wedding soup perfectly.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’re ready to impress everyone at your table with a warm bowl of Italian Wedding Soup! Enjoy every spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Italian Wedding Soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a comforting bowl of goodness throughout the week. Whether you want to make it in advance for busy nights or simply store leftovers, you’ll find that this soup holds up beautifully.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Ensure to separate the pasta if possible, as it may absorb too much broth over time.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best quality, consume within 1-2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a little water or broth if needed.
• For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in intervals, stirring between each interval.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Italian Wedding Soup:

Can I make Italian Wedding Soup in a crockpot?

Absolutely! You can cook Italian Wedding Soup in a crockpot by adding all ingredients except for the pasta and spinach. Cook on low for 6-8 hours and then stir in cooked pasta and spinach just before serving.

What should I serve with Italian Wedding Soup?

Italian Wedding Soup pairs well with crusty bread, garlic breadsticks, or a fresh salad. These sides complement the flavors while providing a complete meal.

How long does Italian Wedding Soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly, Italian Wedding Soup can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Just make sure it’s kept in an airtight container!

Can I use different greens instead of spinach?

Yes! Feel free to substitute spinach with other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly depending on which green you choose.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Italian Wedding Soup as much as I do! It’s not only hearty and comforting but also incredibly versatile for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or prepping meals for the week ahead, it’s bound to bring warmth and joy to your table. Happy cooking!