Introduction
Italian wedding soup recipe is one of the most comforting and satisfying dishes in classic Italian-American cooking. Known for its savory meatballs, tender vegetables, and delicate pasta, this soup delivers the perfect balance of flavor and nourishment. Many home cooks search for a simple and approachable Italian wedding soup recipe because it brings together familiar ingredients with a depth of flavor that feels both homemade and restaurant-worthy. This recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners, cozy weekend meals, and meal prep because it reheats beautifully and is enjoyed by both adults and kids.
The appeal of an Italian wedding soup recipe lies not only in its taste but also in its versatility. You can make the soup lighter, heartier, or customize it with different meats and greens. Whether you’re exploring Italian soup recipes, searching for a delicious meatball soup, or adding a beautiful soup dinner to your weekly menu, this dish fits effortlessly into nearly every kitchen. In this guide, you’ll learn everything needed to prepare a flavorful Italian wedding soup recipe from scratch, including ingredients, instructions, and helpful cooking tips.
Table of Contents
Italian Wedding Soup Recipe (Easy Homemade Meatball Soup)
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
A classic Italian wedding soup with tender meatballs, vegetables, greens, and small pasta in a comforting broth.
Ingredients
Ground meat
Breadcrumbs
Parmesan cheese
Egg
Garlic
Salt
Pepper
Olive oil
Onion
Carrots
Celery
Chicken broth
Acini di pepe or orzo
Spinach or escarole
Italian seasoning
Lemon juice
Parsley
Instructions
1. Mix meatball ingredients and roll into small meatballs.
2. Sauté vegetables.
3. Add broth and seasoning.
4. Drop in the meatballs and simmer.
5. Add pasta and cook until tender.
6. Stir in greens and finish with lemon.
Notes
For a clearer broth, cook pasta separately and add before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Table: Ingredients for Italian Wedding Soup
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground chicken, pork, or beef | 1 lb |
| Breadcrumbs | ½ cup |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | ⅓ cup |
| Egg | 1 |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 3 |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Yellow onion, diced | 1 medium |
| Carrots, diced | 2 |
| Celery, diced | 2 stalks |
| Chicken broth | 8 cups |
| Acini di pepe or orzo pasta | ¾ cup |
| Fresh spinach or escarole | 3 cups |
| Italian seasoning | 1 tsp |
| Lemon juice (optional) | 1 tbsp |
| Parsley | For garnish |
Step-by-Step Instructions and Helpful Tips
1. Make the Meatballs
In a medium bowl, mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend gently until combined. Form small, bite-size meatballs for even cooking and a classic texture.
Tip: Wet your hands lightly to prevent sticking while rolling meatballs.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 6–7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Tip: A slow sauté brings out sweeter, deeper flavors in the soup.
3. Add the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Tip: Use low-sodium broth to control seasoning more precisely.
4. Add the Meatballs
Carefully drop the meatballs into the simmering broth. They will cook evenly and remain tender without browning.
Tip: Avoid stirring aggressively to keep the meatballs intact.
5. Add the Pasta
Once the meatballs float, add acini di pepe or orzo. Stir gently and cook until the pasta is tender.
Tip: If you prefer a brothier soup, reduce the pasta amount slightly.
6. Add the Greens
Stir in spinach or escarole and allow it to wilt. This adds color and nutrition without overpowering the soup.
Tip: Escarole holds its structure better than spinach for longer simmering.
7. Finish with Lemon
A splash of lemon juice brightens the broth and balances the richness of the meatballs and cheese.
8. Serve
Ladle into bowls and garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
Conclusion
Italian wedding soup recipe brings together simple ingredients in a beautifully comforting way. Its combination of flavorful meatballs, soft vegetables, fresh greens, and delicate pasta makes it a timeless dish enjoyed across generations. Whether served as part of a custom menu, prepared as a light soup dinner, or used to explore different Italian soup recipes, it always delivers warmth and satisfaction. This recipe is easy, customizable, and perfect for weeknight cooking or special gatherings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What makes Italian wedding soup unique?
Italian wedding soup features tender meatballs, vegetables, greens, and small pasta in a flavorful broth. The combination of meat and greens is what makes the dish traditional.
2. Can I use different meats for the meatballs?
Yes, ground beef, chicken, turkey, or pork all work well. A blend of two meats often creates the most tender texture.
3. What pasta is best for Italian wedding soup?
Acini di pepe is traditional, but orzo or small shells also work well.
4. Can I freeze Italian wedding soup?
You can freeze the soup without the pasta and greens. Add them fresh after reheating to maintain the best texture.