Name: Italian Wedding Soup Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: ½ lb ground beef; ½ lb ground pork; ¼ cup breadcrumbs; 1 egg; 2 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1 Tbsp olive oil; 1 carrot, diced; 1 celery stalk, diced; ½ onion, diced; 8 cups chicken broth; ¾ cup acini di pepe pasta; 2 cups chopped fresh spinach

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If you’ve ever craved a bowl of comfort that feels like a warm hug from the inside, this Italian Wedding Soup Recipe is your new best friend. This classic Italian favorite combines tender, flavorful meatballs with delicate pasta and vibrant greens, all swimming in a savory broth. It’s simple yet elegant, perfect for both busy weeknights and cozy weekend meals. Each spoonful tells a story of rich tradition, heartiness, and that unmistakable homemade love that makes this soup a timeless treasure.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several clear glass bowls arranged on a white marbled surface. Each bowl contains a different ingredient: bright orange carrot slices, green edamame beans, white grains of rice, minced pink ground meat, pale raw egg, chopped white onion, small light beige beans, shredded pale green cabbage, dark green leafy kale, a small bowl with a reddish-brown powder, a small bowl with what looks like a light yellow spice, and a cup filled with light brown broth. Alongside them, there is a small glass container of yellow oil and a small dark cup of soy sauce. The bowls are neatly spaced, creating a colorful and fresh arrangement. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Italian Wedding Soup Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that pack a punch. Each component plays a crucial part: from the meatballs lending rich taste and texture, to the fresh vegetables adding a subtle sweetness and color, all coming together in a luscious broth that ties everything perfectly.

Ground beef (½ lb): Provides a flavorful and juicy base for the meatballs.
Ground pork (½ lb): Adds moisture and a slightly sweeter note to balance the beef.
Breadcrumbs (¼ cup): Helps bind the meatballs for perfect tenderness.
Egg (1): Acts as a natural glue to keep the meatball mixture together.
Parmesan cheese (2 Tbsp): Infuses the meatballs with a salty, nutty depth.
Garlic powder (1 tsp): Enhances the savory profile without overpowering.
Italian seasoning (1 tsp): Brings that classic blend of herbs essential in Italian cooking.
Olive oil (1 Tbsp): For browning meatballs and sautéing vegetables, adding richness.
Carrot (1, diced): Offers a natural sweetness and vibrant orange color.
Celery stalk (1, diced): Adds gentle crunch and an earthy undertone.
Onion (½, diced): Builds the foundational flavor of the broth.
Chicken broth (8 cups): The soul of the soup, creating a warm, savory base.
Acini di pepe pasta (¾ cup): Small, pearl-like pasta that delivers tenderness and fun texture.
Chopped spinach (2 cups): Brightens the dish with its fresh, leafy bite and vibrant green color.

How to Make Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

Begin by combining the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning in a bowl. Mix everything gently but thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly incorporated. Then, shape the mixture into half-inch meatballs — small and bite-sized, which is key to the soup’s charm.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches so they brown evenly without overcrowding. Cook until lightly browned on all sides—this seals in moisture and builds flavor. They don’t need to cook through completely at this stage since they’ll simmer later in the broth.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Remove the browned meatballs temporarily and add the diced carrot, celery, and onion to the pot. Sauté for about five minutes, until the vegetables soften and release their natural sweetness. This step deepens the broth’s flavor and adds a lovely fresh aroma to the kitchen.

Step 4: Add Broth and Pasta

Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine with the sautéed vegetables. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the acini di pepe pasta. Let this cook for about ten minutes, until the pasta is al dente—soft but still with a little bite.

Step 5: Simmer Meatballs and Spinach

Gently return the meatballs to the pot along with the chopped spinach. Simmer together for another ten minutes to allow the flavors to meld and ensure the meatballs are fully cooked through. The spinach wilts delicately, adding a fresh, vibrant touch to the entire dish.

How to Serve Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

A white bowl filled with clear broth soup that has five round meatballs placed evenly around the bowl, large pieces of light green cabbage, dark green leafy vegetables, bright orange carrot cubes, and white beans scattered throughout. There is grated cheese sprinkled lightly on top. A silver spoon rests inside the bowl, holding some soup with beans and carrot cubes. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface. A small part of a white bowl with more soup and a small glass of golden oil are visible near the edges. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The right garnishes elevate this Italian Wedding Soup Recipe from delightful to irresistible. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top adds an extra layer of flavor and a touch of creaminess. For a hint of brightness, consider a few drops of fresh lemon juice or thin lemon zest strips. Freshly chopped parsley or basil also make beautiful, fragrant toppings to finish off each bowl.

Side Dishes

This soup is wonderfully comforting on its own, but pairing it with sides can turn it into a perfect meal. Think crusty Italian bread or garlic knots to soak up the flavorful broth. A crisp green salad dressed lightly with balsamic can provide a refreshing contrast. For a heartier option, a simple antipasto platter with olives, cured meats, and cheeses rounds out the experience splendidly.

Creative Ways to Present

Serving this soup in rustic, shallow bowls brings out the homey vibes, but if you want to impress guests, try individual crock pots or mini soup tureens. Even clear glass bowls can showcase the beautiful layers of meatballs, greens, and tiny pasta. For a playful twist, serve alongside a small plate of shaved Parmesan and lemon wedges, inviting everyone to customize their soup just the way they like it.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftover Italian Wedding Soup Recipe into airtight containers. It keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to deepen, making the soup even tastier the next day.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions using freezer-safe containers or bags. Before freezing, it’s best to slightly undercook the pasta and meatballs to prevent mushiness upon reheating. Frozen soup stays good for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. Avoid using high heat, which can toughen the meatballs and make the pasta overly soft. Microwave reheating works too but heat in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use different types of pasta in the Italian Wedding Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! While acini di pepe is traditional, small pastas like orzo, ditalini, or even tiny shells work beautifully. Just keep pasta size small to maintain the delicate balance of the soup.

Is there a vegetarian version of Italian Wedding Soup?

Yes! Swap out the meatballs for vegetarian meatballs or hearty beans, and substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth. Adding mushrooms can also give a nice umami depth similar to the meaty version.

How can I make the meatballs more tender?

Be sure not to overmix the meatball ingredients. Using a combination of beef and pork adds moisture, and including breadcrumbs and an egg helps create tender, juicy meatballs that won’t fall apart.

Can I prepare this soup in advance for a party?

Definitely! The flavors often improve when made a few hours ahead or even the day before. Just keep the pasta separate if possible, and add it when reheating to avoid it becoming mushy.

What makes this soup an “Italian wedding” soup?

The name actually refers to the “marriage” of flavors between the meat and the greens, symbolizing harmony. It’s not tied to weddings specifically, but the balance and heartiness make it a celebratory comfort food.

Final Thoughts

Once you cook up this Italian Wedding Soup Recipe, you’ll see why it’s a beloved classic. Bursting with comforting flavors, tender meatballs, and fresh greens, it’s a bowl that invites coziness and joy at any table. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and create a pot of this soul-warming soup that will soon become your most cherished recipe.