Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

If you’re craving something wonderfully comforting and full of heartfelt flavor, you’re going to adore this Italian Wedding Soup Recipe. It’s a perfect harmony of tender homemade meatballs, bright greens, delicate acini de pepe pasta, and a rich chicken broth that feels like a warm embrace in a bowl. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special gathering, this soup brings everyone together with its comforting taste and satisfying texture, making it one of those dishes you’ll want to cook again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the magic starts with simple, wholesome ingredients that complement each other beautifully. Each component plays an essential role, from the savory meatballs to the fresh vegetables, creating layers of taste and texture that make this soup truly unforgettable.

• ½ pound 90/10 ground beef: For juicy, slightly lean meatballs that stay tender while cooking.
• ½ pound mild Italian ground pork sausage: Adds that signature Italian seasoning and a little extra richness.
• ½ cup Italian-style breadcrumbs: Helps bind the meatballs without making them dense.
• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, nutty flavor to elevate every bite.
• 1 large egg (beaten): Binds the meatball mixture, giving it just the right consistency.
• ¼ cup finely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley: Adds a bright, fresh note in every meatball.
• 2 garlic cloves (finely minced): Imparts aromatic depth to the meat mixture.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and earthiness.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided): For browning meatballs and sautéing vegetables, giving a rich base.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: To cook the vegetables perfectly tender.
• ½ small white onion (diced): Sweetness and texture that soften into comforting warmth.
• 3 medium carrots (peeled and diced): Provide natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• 3 celery ribs (diced): Offer aromatic crunch and subtle earthiness.
• 3 garlic cloves (finely minced): Fresh garlic boldens the soup’s flavor profile.
• 8 cups chicken broth: The soul of the soup, bringing all ingredients together in a savory base.
• 1 cup acini de pepe pasta: These tiny pasta pearls cook perfectly in the broth without overpowering the soup.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Seasons the broth gently.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a background warmth to balance the flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, plus more for serving): For a subtle kick that wakes up your palate.
• 3 cups fresh baby spinach (roughly chopped): Brings color, nutrition, and a fresh, leafy texture.
• Fresh flat-leaf parsley (chopped, optional): A final sprinkle for added fragrance and color at serving.

How to Make Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

Start by combining the ground beef, Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, beaten egg, parsley, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Mix everything gently until just combined, careful not to overwork the meat which can make the meatballs tough. Then, scoop out about 2 teaspoons of the mixture and roll into small, uniform meatballs. Pro tip: If your hands get sticky, a quick spritz with nonstick spray will make rolling easier and cleaner. You should end up with approximately 48 tender little meatballs that will be the heart of your soup.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add half of your meatballs, cooking them gently and turning often for about 4-5 minutes until all sides have a light golden crust. This browning adds incredible flavor. Transfer the browned meatballs to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil, then repeat the process with the remaining oil and meatballs.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Using the same pot, add a tablespoon of olive oil, then toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these vegetables for 3-4 minutes over medium heat until they soften and their natural sweetness begins to surface. Add the minced garlic last, cooking for just 30 seconds more until fragrant — this step builds the soulful base for the soup.

Step 4: Add the Broth and Bring to a Boil

Pour in the chicken broth while scraping the pot’s bottom gently with a wooden spoon to lift those tasty browned bits. Turn the heat to high and bring the broth to a lively boil — this bubbling moment prepares the soup to marry all the flavors beautifully.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta and Simmer

Slowly add the acini de pepe pasta to the pot, stirring well to prevent any clumping. Season the soup with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat. Gently nestle in the meatballs, cover the pot, then reduce the heat to medium. Allow the soup to simmer for 7-9 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and the meatballs are cooked through, letting the flavors mingle and develop.

Step 6: Finish with Fresh Spinach

Toss in the roughly chopped spinach and stir it into the hot soup. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts beautifully, adding a fresh, vibrant layer of color and nutrition. Your Italian Wedding Soup Recipe is now ready to be ladled into bowls, inviting you to dive into its warm, nourishing goodness.

How to Serve Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your soup’s presentation and flavor, sprinkle fresh chopped flat-leaf parsley over each bowl. A small pinch of red pepper flakes adds a lively, spicy note for those who enjoy a bit of heat. Some extra grated Parmesan on top never fails to impress and adds a creamy finish to each bite.

Side Dishes

Serve this Italian Wedding Soup Recipe alongside crusty garlic bread or a warm, buttery focaccia to soak up every drop of the broth. A crisp green salad with a simple lemon vinaigrette can bring a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup, creating a well-rounded meal that feels like a true Italian feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a delightful presentation, serve the soup in rustic bread bowls, scooping out the interiors to use as dipping bites. Alternatively, mini cast iron pots or colorful ceramic bowls bring a charming, cozy vibe perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a few drops of truffle oil right before serving adds an unexpected touch of indulgence.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Italian Wedding Soup Recipe keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain its fresh flavors and prevent the broth from absorbing any unwanted odors. Before sealing, let the soup cool slightly to protect your fridge’s temperature balance.

Freezing

This soup also freezes well, but to keep pasta from becoming mushy, it’s best to freeze the soup without the cooked pasta. Store the soup and meatballs in airtight, freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and cook the pasta fresh when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat your soup gently over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. If frozen, thaw completely before warming. Add freshly cooked acini de pepe pasta right before serving to revive that perfect al dente texture. Toss in fresh spinach during the last few minutes of reheating to keep it bright and tender.

FAQs

Can I substitute the meats in this Italian Wedding Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! You can swap the ground beef and Italian sausage for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Just be sure to add extra seasoning to keep that classic flavor.

What if I can’t find acini de pepe pasta?

If acini de pepe isn’t available, mini pastina, or tiny orzo pasta works wonderfully as a substitute, offering the same delicate bite in the soup.

How spicy is this soup, and can I adjust it?

The red pepper flakes provide a mild kick that’s entirely optional. Feel free to add more for heat lovers or skip them altogether for a gentler flavor.

Is this soup gluten-free?

To make this Italian Wedding Soup Recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta. There are many excellent gluten-free options available that won’t compromise on texture.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, omit the meatballs and use vegetable broth. Consider adding hearty beans and extra greens to compensate for the protein and depth.

Final Thoughts

If you want a dish that wraps you in comfort and fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas, you simply must try this Italian Wedding Soup Recipe. It strikes the perfect balance of savory meatballs, tender pasta, and fresh veggies in a flavorful broth, making every spoonful feel like a warm family hug. Trust me, once you make it, this soup will become a beloved staple on your recipe list, perfect for cozy nights and joyous gatherings alike.

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