This classic Italian Wedding Soup is a warm and hearty dish that brings together savory meatballs, vibrant greens, and tender pasta in a flavorful broth. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this soup is both comforting and satisfying. Whether you choose to prepare it on the stove top or in a crock pot, its rich flavors will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple to follow and takes only about 50 minutes from prep to table, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Combination: The mix of ground beef and pork creates delicious meatballs that pair perfectly with the fresh spinach and aromatic broth.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main course or pair it with crusty bread for a delightful meal any time of year.
- Family-Friendly: With its mild flavors and fun pasta shapes, even picky eaters will love this soup!
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein from the meatballs and nutrients from the vegetables, this soup is a wholesome choice.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Italian Wedding Soup, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process and make the experience more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for simmering your broth and cooking the soup all in one place.
- Mixing bowl: Great for combining ingredients when forming meatballs, ensuring an even mixture.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware while keeping everything mixed well.
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
For Serving
- 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 thoroughly until well combined.
- Shape into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion, carrots, celery, and remaining minced garlic.
- Sauté until vegetables are tender, approximately 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Combine Broth and Seasonings
- Pour in chicken broth and add Italian seasoning.
- Bring to a boil.
Step 4: Add Meatballs and Pasta
- Gently drop meatballs into boiling broth.
- Stir in acini de pepe pasta.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for about 20 minutes or until pasta is cooked through.
Step 5: Incorporate Spinach
- Add fresh spinach to the pot just before serving.
- Cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
Step 6: Serve
- Taste for seasoning and adjust with salt and pepper if needed.
- Ladle soup into bowls and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Enjoy your delightful bowl of homemade Italian Wedding Soup, perfect for any occasion!
How to Serve Italian Wedding Soup
Italian Wedding Soup is a delightful dish that warms the heart and soul. It is perfect for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to festive gatherings. Here are some creative ways to serve this classic soup that will enhance your dining experience.
With Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping into the savory broth.
- Garlic Breadsticks: These add a flavorful twist and are perfect for sopping up every last bit of soup.
Salad Pairings
- Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad complements the richness of the soup with its tangy dressing and crunchy croutons.
- Caprese Salad: Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil create a refreshing contrast to the hearty meatballs.
Toppings and Garnishes
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle freshly grated cheese on top of each bowl for added flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Add a sprinkle of extra parsley or basil just before serving to enhance the visual appeal.
Beverage Suggestions
- Red Wine: A glass of Chianti pairs beautifully with the flavors of Italian Wedding Soup.
- Sparkling Water: For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with lemon adds a refreshing touch.
How to Perfect Italian Wedding Soup
To elevate your Italian Wedding Soup, consider these simple yet effective tips for achieving perfect flavors and textures.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the taste significantly compared to dried versions.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Add acini de pepe pasta towards the end of cooking to keep it firm and not mushy.
- Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go; adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for balanced flavors.
- Simmer Slowly: Allowing the soup to simmer helps meld all the flavors together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Italian Wedding Soup
Pairing side dishes with Italian Wedding Soup can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options that complement its rich flavors:
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes and basil provides a fresh contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring a healthy element that balances out the meal.
- Antipasto Platter: A mix of cured meats, cheeses, and olives offers variety and excitement alongside your soup.
- Focaccia Bread: Soft, herb-infused focaccia is perfect for dipping in broth.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Bite-sized stuffed mushrooms make an excellent appetizer that pairs well with soup.
- Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are comforting and add richness to your meal.
- Spinach Salad: A light spinach salad with vinaigrette refreshes your palate between bites of soup.
- Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad can provide a nice contrast in temperature while enhancing the Italian theme.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Italian Wedding Soup can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some to watch out for:
Skipping the Meatballs: Many people overlook the importance of flavorful meatballs. Ensure you mix your ground meats well with spices and breadcrumbs for a tasty result.
Not Using Fresh Herbs: Using dried herbs instead of fresh ones can dull the flavor. Always opt for fresh parsley to elevate your soup’s taste.
Overcooking the Pasta: Adding pasta too early can lead to mushiness. Cook acini de pepe just until al dente, as it will continue to cook in the broth.
Ignoring Seasoning: A bland soup is a letdown. Taste your broth before serving and adjust salt and pepper as needed for a more vibrant flavor.
Neglecting Broth Quality: The base of your soup is crucial. Use high-quality chicken broth to enhance the overall flavor of your Italian Wedding Soup.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Italian Wedding Soup in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days.
Freezing Italian Wedding Soup
- Portion out the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Italian Wedding Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warm.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway through for even warming.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Italian Wedding Soup?
Italian Wedding Soup is a hearty soup featuring meatballs, greens, and pasta in a savory broth. It’s comfort food at its finest!
Can I make Italian Wedding Soup ahead of time?
Yes! This soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. Just be mindful of cooking the pasta separately if you plan on freezing it.
What can I substitute for acini de pepe?
If you can’t find acini de pepe, small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini work well as substitutes in Italian Wedding Soup.
How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version of Italian Wedding Soup, use vegetable broth and replace meatballs with plant-based options or omit them entirely.
Final Thoughts
This Italian Wedding Soup recipe combines savory meatballs with fresh spinach and tender pasta, making it an ideal choice for any meal. It’s not only comforting but also versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs. Try this delightful dish today and enjoy its heartwarming flavors!
Italian Wedding Soup
Italian Wedding Soup is a heartwarming comfort food that perfectly blends savory meatballs, vibrant greens, and delicate pasta in a rich, flavorful broth. Ideal for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, this classic Italian dish will warm your soul and leave everyone asking for more. With its nutritious ingredients and quick preparation time, it’s a family-friendly meal that even picky eaters will love. Whether simmered on the stovetop or cooked slowly in a crock pot, this soup promises a delightful culinary experience that embodies the essence of Italian home cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
- 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
- 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)
Instructions
- Prepare the meatballs by mixing ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Form into 1-inch meatballs.
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic in olive oil until tender.
- Add chicken broth and Italian seasoning to the pot; bring to a boil.
- Carefully add meatballs and acini de pepe pasta to the boiling broth; reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes until pasta is cooked.
- Stir in fresh spinach just before serving until wilted.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
