There’s nothing quite like the rich aroma of simmering broth, mingling with tender meatballs and fresh greens. Italian Wedding Soup is more than just a dish; it’s a warm hug on a cold day and a hit on TikTok for its cozy vibes and easy prep! Families love gathering around this bowl of comfort, especially when it’s made with love.
This delightful soup features mini meatballs, spinach, and tiny pasta for a dish that feels like a big, warm blanket. It’s simple to whip uplike your grandma’s version, but quicker! Just grab your pantry staples and get ready for a family favorite. Full details in the blog!
This Italian Wedding Soup features Mini Meatball Italian Wedding Soup and Homemade Italian Wedding Soup Acini Pepe for a comforting meal. Enjoy Easy Italian Wedding Soup Meatballs in a rich broth with fresh vegetables. It makes a perfect family favorite dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
1 slice soft bread about ¾ cup fluffed bread crumbs
2 tablespoons water
½ lb ground beef
½ lb ground pork
½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese fresh if possible
1 egg
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
2 large carrots peeled and chopped
2 ribs celery sliced
1 medium onion finely diced
1 tablespoon freshly minced garlic
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
1 bay leaf
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional but add nice flavor
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 Parmesan rind optional but delicious
1 cup small pasta I used ditalini but orzo or anything very small will work about 90 grams
2 cups fresh chopped spinach
Instructions
Tear the bread into small pieces and blend into fine crumbs then mix with water and let soak for a few minutes.
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and the soaked bread until just mixed without overworking.
Form the mixture into 1 inch meatballs and set on a plate.
Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat and brown the meatballs about 2 minutes per side without cooking through fully, then set aside.
In the same pot with leftover fat, cook chopped carrots, celery, and onion for about 5 minutes until softened.
Add garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, bay leaf, and optional red pepper flakes and cook 1 minute.
Pour in chicken broth and add Parmesan rind, scraping browned bits from the pot bottom, then bring to a simmer.
Simmer the vegetables for 5 minutes until almost tender.
Add uncooked pasta and browned meatballs to the pot, cover, reduce heat to medium, and cook 10 minutes until pasta is al dente.
Stir in fresh spinach and serve immediately.
Notes
To reduce fat in the soup, bake the meatballs at 400 degrees for 8 to 10 minutes until browned instead of browning in the pot
You can double or triple the meatball recipe and freeze extras
The soup keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days but pasta softens over time, so consider cooking pasta separately
Freeze soup without pasta and add cooked pasta when reheating
Prep meatballs and vegetables ahead to save time
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Category:Main Course, Soup
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Nutrition
Calories:421cal
Sugar:3g
Sodium:720mg
Fat:21g
Saturated Fat:8g
Unsaturated Fat:2g + 8g
Trans Fat:0.5g
Carbohydrates:33g
Fiber:3g
Protein:26g
Cholesterol:89mg
Why It’s a Family Favorite
Ah, the magic of cozy meals! This Italian Wedding Soup resonates so warmly with everyone at the table. It’s not just soup; it’s a comforting hug on a chilly evening. With its homemade mini meatballs and vibrant pop of greens, it brings back fond memories of family gatherings and laughter. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and leisurely Sundays.
What’s more delightful is watching those tiny pasta shapes dance around in the broth, while kids and adults alike dive in with gleeful spoons. The combination of flavorsfrom the savory meatballs to the fresh spinachcreates a heartwarming bowl that’s both nostalgic and satisfying. It truly embodies the spirit of gathering around the dinner table and enjoying each bite together.
Ingredients Breakdown
Let’s talk goodies! Here’s what you’ll need to craft this comforting bowl of joy:
Homemade Meatballs: Just a slice of soft bread, ground beef, ground pork, Parmesan cheese, an egg, and Italian seasoning unite to create magic.
Veggie Delight: Carrots, celery, onion, and garlicthese humble ingredients bring a burst of flavor and nutrition.
The Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth is the star! It’s coupled with a Parmesan rind for an added depth of flavor.
Mini Pasta: Ditalini or orzo adds that cozy, comforting texture to the soup.
Fresh Spinach: A lovely handful of greens makes it colorful and nutritious, and the flavor is pure bliss!
Simple Steps to Make It
Ready to dive into cooking? Here’s your step-by-step guide:
Make the Meatballs: Tear your bread into tiny pieces, process it into crumbs, and let it soak in water. Combine it with the beef, pork, cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Roll into 1-inch balls.
Brown ’Em Up: Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs for about 2 minutes on each side. They don’t need to be fully cookedjust get that lovely color.
Sauté the Veggies: In the same pot, toss in carrots, celery, and onion. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes, picking up all the delicious bits left from the meatballs.
Simmer Away: Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, bay leaf, and optional red pepper flakes. Pour in your chicken broth and Parmesan rind. Bring to a simmer, then add the pasta and meatballs, cooking for another 10 minutes until al dente.
Finish with Spinach: Stir in spinach until wilted, and your soup is ready to serve! Yum!
Easy Customizations
This recipe is wonderfully flexible. Here are some simple tweaks to make it your own:
Swap the Meat: Feel free to use all beef or turkey in your meatballs for a lighter option.
Pasta Choices: Instead of ditalini, try tiny shells or any small pasta you have on hand.
Veggie Boost: Toss in other veggies like green beans or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
Make It Creamy: For a richer taste, stir in a splash of cream or some extra cheese to give it creaminess.
How to Serve & Store
Serving this delightful soup is as simple as it gets! Ladle it into cozy bowls and top with a sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve it with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.
Storage Method
How to Store
Reheating Tips
Refrigerator
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 daysjust be aware the pasta may get softer.
Heat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Freezer
Freeze without pasta in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, adding freshly cooked pasta.
This Italian Wedding Soup not only warms your belly but also your soul. Embrace the process, enjoy the flavors, and gather your loved ones around the table for a dish that feels like home.
Expert Says
Italian wedding soup is a delightful blend of flavors that showcases the importance of balance in cooking. The combination of greens and hearty meatballs provides a rich source of vitamins and protein, making this dish both comforting and nutritious. Simmering the ingredients gently allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
For more delicious recipes and cooking inspiration, follow me on Facebook, Pinterest and Reddit!
The Heartwarming Path to My Italian Wedding Soup
After countless attempts at perfecting my Italian Wedding Soup, I’ve learned that the secret really lies in patience and a sprinkle of love. One pot turned into a salt festival, while another resembled a vegetable graveyard. But with each try, I gathered not just flavors, but cherished family memories that made this recipe truly special.
FAQs ( Italian Wedding Soup )
How long does it take to make Italian Wedding Soup?
This recipe typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes from start to finish. With pre-made meatballs, you can cut down on the time significantly. Just be sure to let the flavors meld for at least 10 minutes after cooking!
Can I make Italian Wedding Soup ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be made in advance. Prepare the soup and meatballs, then store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore consistency.
What can I use instead of acini di pepe?
If you can’t find acini di pepe, try using orzo or small pasta shapes like ditalini as substitutes. Both will work well in this meal, maintaining that beloved texture without altering the overall flavor.
Is it possible to make Italian Wedding Soup gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta or omit it entirely for a lighter broth. You can also ensure your meatballs are made with gluten-free breadcrumbs or no bread crumbs at all, keeping this dish flavorful and safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, feel free to add your favorite vegetables! Carrots, celery, and peas work wonderfully, adding color and nutrition. Just be sure to chop them small so they cook evenly with the soup.
Conclusion
There you have it! This Easy Italian Wedding Soup Meatballs is your ticket to a bowl of cozy goodness that comes together in just 30 minutes. The rich broth, tender mini meatballs, and fresh greens create an aroma that practically begs you to sit down and dig in. You’ll love how it turns outjust like those hearty family meals you remember!
Try adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness or some red pepper flakes if you fancy a little heat. And don’t worry about leftovers; they’re just as delightful! A quick tip from my aunt’s kitchen: add a bit of broth when reheating to keep it beautiful and soupy.
I’d love to hear how your version turns out! Did you grow up with something like this? Snap a pic and share your warm memories. Remember to save the recipe for your loved ones, because nothing warms the heart quite like a homemade meal. Happy cooking, friend!
Sharing a handpicked collection of easy, healthy recipes made in our family kitchen. Rachel brings comforting classics, while Emily adds fresh, modern ideas together creating meals that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly.
