Name: Delicious Italian Wedding Soup Recipe for Comforting Nights
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 ounces lean ground beef; 8 ounces ground pork; 1/2 cup fresh white bread crumbs; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1 1/2 teaspoons minced fresh oregano; 1/2 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; Salt, to taste; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 1/4 cups chopped carrots; 1 1/4 cups chopped yellow onion; 3/4 cup chopped celery; 4 cloves garlic, minced (approximately 1 1/2 tablespoons); 5 (14.5-ounce) cans low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup dry acini di pepe pasta (or orzo); 6 ounces fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped; Finely shredded Parmesan cheese, for serving

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Italian Wedding Soup is a heartwarming dish you can rely on during chilly nights. This delightful soup combines juicy meatballs, fresh vegetables, and delicate acini di pepe pasta in a savory chicken broth. It’s not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings at home. The comforting flavors of this traditional Italian marriage soup will transport you to Italy with every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Italian Wedding Soup

This Italian Wedding Soup is a culinary gem for many reasons. First, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a healthy choice. With lean ground beef and ground pork, you get a protein-rich dish that’s flavorful and satisfying. The addition of fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and spinach not only enhances the soup’s taste but also boosts its nutritional profile. Plus, it’s gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs. Whether you’re learning how to make Italian wedding soup for the first time or looking for an easy Italian wedding soup recipe, this dish is straightforward and rewarding. You’ll also find that it’s perfect for meal prep, as it stores well and reheats beautifully, making it a great option for busy weeknights.

Delicious Italian Wedding Soup Recipe for Comforting Nights - Italian Wedding Soup - main visual representation

Ingredients for Italian Wedding Soup

Gather these items:

8 ounces lean ground beef
8 ounces ground pork
1/2 cup fresh white bread crumbs
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 1/2 teaspoons minced fresh oregano
1/2 cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
1 large egg
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 1/4 cups chopped carrots
1 1/4 cups chopped yellow onion
3/4 cup chopped celery
4 cloves garlic, minced (approximately 1 1/2 tablespoons)
5 (14.5-ounce) cans low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup dry acini di pepe pasta (or orzo)
6 ounces fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
Finely shredded Parmesan cheese, for serving

How to Make Italian Wedding Soup Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground beef, ground pork, fresh white bread crumbs, chopped fresh parsley, minced fresh oregano, shredded Parmesan cheese, and large egg. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 2: Roll the meat mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Carefully add the meatballs in batches, browning them on all sides. You don’t need to cook them through at this stage, just achieve a nice sear. Remove the browned meatballs and set aside.
Step 3: In the same pot with any remaining drippings, add the chopped carrots, yellow onion, and celery. Sauté over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring the broth to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Add the dry acini di pepe (or orzo) pasta to the simmering broth. Return the browned meatballs to the pot. Continue to simmer for 8-10 minutes, or according to pasta package directions, until the pasta is al dente and the meatballs are cooked through.
Step 6: Stir in the roughly chopped fresh baby spinach during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, until it wilts. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish generously with additional finely shredded Parmesan cheese before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Italian Wedding Soup

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
Don’t overmix the meatball mixture to keep them tender.
Feel free to use a mix of Italian sausage and ground beef for a more flavorful profile.
For a lighter soup, consider using turkey instead of beef or pork.

Best Ways to Serve Italian Wedding Soup

Serve this comforting soup with crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal. For an authentic touch, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top or add a dash of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat. Pair it with a glass of red wine for a delightful dining experience.

How to Store and Reheat Italian Wedding Soup

To store, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. This soup also freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Wedding Soup

What’s the secret to perfect Italian Wedding Soup?

The secret lies in the balance of flavors. Use fresh ingredients and don’t skimp on the herbs. Browning the meatballs before adding them to the broth enhances the taste, making your Italian wedding soup truly authentic.

Can I make Italian Wedding Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Simply prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just remember to add the spinach shortly before serving.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Italian Wedding Soup?

Avoid overcooking the pasta by adding it just before the soup is done simmering. Keep your meatballs small and don’t overmix them to ensure they remain tender. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving!

Variations of Italian Wedding Soup You Can Try

There are numerous ways to customize this classic dish. You can create a vegetarian Italian wedding soup recipe by substituting the meat with lentils or chickpeas. For a low-carb option, try using zucchini noodles instead of pasta. Additionally, you can add in seasonal vegetables like peas or green beans for added nutrition and flavor.

For more information on the health benefits of soup, check out this Healthline article.

For tips on meal prepping, visit EatingWell.

Lastly, if you’re interested in more Italian recipes, check out our latest recipes.