As I ladle the steaming, vibrant broth into bowls, the aroma wafts through the kitchen, instantly transporting me to family gatherings filled with laughter and warmth. My go-to recipe for Italian Wedding Soup has become a beloved staple—perfect for cozy nights or as a crowd-pleaser at potlucks. This comforting dish marries tender meatballs, colorful veggies, and delicate pasta in a rich chicken broth, bringing nourishment and joy to every spoonful. With just 15 minutes of prep time and a total cooking time of around an hour, you’ll be savoring this experience without any stress. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in those greens while feeding your soul! So, are you ready to enjoy a hearty bowl that feels like a warm hug? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe together!
Why is Italian Wedding Soup So Special?
Hearty, comforting flavors: This Italian Wedding Soup brings warmth on chilly nights, blending savory meatballs with vibrant vegetables.
Quick to prepare: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip this meal up effortlessly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Nutrient-packed goodness: Loaded with nutritious greens like kale and protein-packed meatballs, it’s a delicious way to incorporate healthy ingredients into your family meals.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether it’s a casual night at home or a potluck gathering, this soup is sure to impress both family and friends.
Versatile: Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or pasta shapes; it’s adaptable to whatever you have on hand.
Dive deeper into the beauty of homemade recipes with our easy soup recipes for even more cozy inspiration!
Italian Wedding Soup Ingredients
Crafting the perfect Italian Wedding Soup is all about quality ingredients and a touch of love!
For the Meatballs
• Ground beef – a hearty base, but feel free to substitute with ground turkey for a lighter option.
• Breadcrumbs – helps bind the meatballs together, adding a delightful texture.
• Grated parmesan cheese – brings a savory depth of flavor, essential for authentic taste.
• Chopped parsley – adds vibrant color and a fresh taste to balance the richness of the meat.
• Garlic powder – infuses a warm aroma and flavor; fresh garlic works wonderfully too.
• Onion powder – enhances the savoriness without the crunch of fresh onions.
• Salt – vital for enhancing all the flavors in your meatballs.
• Pepper – adds a lovely touch of heat; adjust to your preference.
• Egg – acts as a binder and contributes to the tenderness of the meatballs.
For the Soup
• Chicken broth – the soul of the soup, rich in flavor; homemade broth makes it even better!
• Water – helps balance the broth’s richness; you can replace some with white wine for added depth.
• Chopped kale or spinach – vital greens that add nutrients and a pop of color; spinach wilts down nicely.
• Small pasta (e.g., acini di pepe or orzo) – these tiny shapes soak up the broth perfectly, making every bite delightful.
• Diced carrots – adds sweetness and color; nutritious and delicious!
• Diced celery – brings essential crunch and flavors to the broth.
• Dried oregano – for that unmistakable Italian flair that ties all the flavors together.
Now you’re just a few steps away from enjoying a bowl of delightful Italian Wedding Soup that feels like a warm hug!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Italian Wedding Soup
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and the egg. Using your hands or a spoon, mix these ingredients until they’re well blended. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about one inch in diameter, and set them aside on a plate.
Step 2: Boil the Broth
In a large pot, pour in the chicken broth and water, and bring it to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Watch for gentle bubbles surfacing as the mixture heats up, which indicates it’s ready for the next steps in your Italian Wedding Soup preparation.
Step 3: Add the Meatballs
Once the chicken broth is boiling, carefully drop the meatballs into the pot. Lower the heat to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the meatballs to cook through, turning them occasionally. You’ll see them begin to float to the top as they cook, which is a lovely visual cue that they are getting tender and ready.
Step 4: Incorporate the Vegetables
After the meatballs have simmered, stir in the chopped kale (or spinach), diced carrots, diced celery, and dried oregano. Cook everything together for an additional 15 minutes over medium heat, or until the vegetables are tender. The vibrant colors of the veggies will brighten your pot as they soften and infuse their flavors into the broth.
Step 5: Add the Pasta
Next, stir in the small pasta of your choice, such as acini di pepe or orzo. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Keep an eye on the pot and give it a gentle stir every few minutes to ensure the pasta doesn’t stick together as it cooks in the flavorful Italian Wedding Soup.
Step 6: Final Touches
Once the pasta is cooked, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt or pepper according to your preference. Allow the Italian Wedding Soup to simmer for a couple more minutes to meld the flavors together before serving it hot. The delicious aroma will fill your kitchen, making it a perfect comforting meal for everyone to enjoy!
Make Ahead Options
Italian Wedding Soup is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the meatballs and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours to save time on busy weeknights. Simply combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and egg, shaping them into meatballs before storing them in an airtight container. Additionally, you can chop the vegetables (kale, carrots, celery) and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to enjoy your soup, just bring the broth and water to a boil, add the prepped meatballs, veggies, and pasta, and you'll have a comforting meal ready with minimal effort, just as delicious as when made fresh!
Italian Wedding Soup Variations
Feel free to get creative and adapt this Italian Wedding Soup to suit your taste and pantry!
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Turkey Meatballs: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter, but equally flavorful option.
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Vegan Version: Use plant-based meat, vegetable broth, and swap egg with flaxseed meal to create a delicious vegan soup.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the meatballs and small gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary restrictions.
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Add More Greens: Toss in additional greens like swiss chard or arugula for extra nutrition and a fresh flavor.
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Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the broth to give your soup a comforting kick.
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Herbed Twist: Experiment with fresh herbs such as basil or thyme for a fragrant twist that enhances the flavor profile beautifully.
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Creamy Comfort: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk before serving for a luscious, creamy version of your soup.
For even more delightful variations, take a look at our easy soup recipes and create delicious experiences in your kitchen!
What to Serve with Italian Wedding Soup
As you savor each spoonful of this hearty goodness, think about how delightful it would be to enhance your meal with some lovely sides!
- Crusty Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the delicious broth, this warm, toasty treat will complement the flavors beautifully.
- Arugula Salad: A fresh salad brings a peppery and light touch to balance the richness of the soup; add a zesty lemon vinaigrette for extra zing.
- Parmesan Crisps: These crunchy bites add a delightful texture and a savory element, elevating the experience with each crunch.
- Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers add sweetness and color, making the meal visually appealing and nutritious.
- Wine Pairing: A light white wine, like Pinot Grigio, refreshes the palate and adds a sophisticated touch to your dining experience.
- Mini Caprese Skewers: Combine fresh mozzarella, basil, and cherry tomatoes for a burst of flavor that contrasts well with the soup's warmth.
- Dessert: Consider serving a slice of rich tiramisu or a light panna cotta to finish off the meal on a sweet note.
- Cheese Platter: Include a variety of cheeses alongside some fruits and nuts to create an inviting appetizer that complements the soup perfectly.
How to Store and Freeze Italian Wedding Soup
Fridge: Keep your Italian Wedding Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring maximum freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in single-serving portions for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space in the container for expansion.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring until warmed through for the best texture.
Serving: This versatile soup can be enjoyed on its own or paired with crusty bread for a comforting meal any day of the week!
Expert Tips for Italian Wedding Soup
Perfectly Seasoned Meatballs: Ensure your meatball mixture is well-seasoned; taste a small raw piece before forming all the meatballs to adjust seasoning as needed.
Don’t Overcook the Veggies: Add the kale, carrots, and celery early enough to soften but avoid boiling them too long; you want them to retain some crunch for texture.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: Remember to undercook the pasta slightly since it will continue cooking in the hot soup, helping to prevent it from becoming mushy in your Italian Wedding Soup.
Use Homemade Broth: Whenever possible, opt for homemade chicken broth to enhance the flavors of your soup. It makes a world of difference in richness!
Keep It Fresh: Adding a splash of fresh lemon juice just before serving can brighten up your Italian Wedding Soup, enhancing its delicious flavors even more.
Italian Wedding Soup Recipe FAQs
What kind of ground meat is best for meatballs?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for ground beef, you can also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Just remember that the flavor might be slightly different. Experiment to find your personal favorite!
How long can I store leftover Italian Wedding Soup?
I recommend storing your Italian Wedding Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Can I freeze Italian Wedding Soup?
Definitely! To freeze, portion the soup into airtight containers or freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. It will stay good for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight, and reheat on the stove until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
What should I do if my meatballs are falling apart in the soup?
Very! If you notice your meatballs are falling apart, this may be due to not enough binding. Make sure to include enough breadcrumbs and egg in the mixture, and let them simmer gently instead of boiling rapidly to help them hold their shape.
Is Italian Wedding Soup safe for pets?
It's best to keep Italian Wedding Soup away from pets. Ingredients like onions and garlic can be toxic to dogs and cats. If you're looking for a pet-friendly treat, stick to plain cooked meat and veggies without seasonings!
What vegetables can I add to my Italian Wedding Soup?
The more the merrier! Feel free to get creative with your veggies. Zucchini, green beans, or peas can add more nutrition and variety. Just chop them small and add them at the same time as the other veggies.
Hearty Italian Wedding Soup for Cozy Nights In
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and the egg. Mix until well blended and form into small meatballs.
- In a large pot, pour in the chicken broth and water, and bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, carefully drop in the meatballs. Lower the heat to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes until they float to the top.
- Stir in the chopped kale, diced carrots, diced celery, and dried oregano. Cook for an additional 15 minutes over medium heat.
- Add the small pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until al dente.
- Taste the soup and adjust seasoning. Allow to simmer for a couple more minutes before serving hot.
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