Italian Wedding Soup
A Classic, Comforting Soup Bursting with Flavor
Italian Wedding Soup is a hearty, comforting, and flavor-packed soup that has been enjoyed for generations. Despite its name, it’s not just for weddings—it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or special occasions. Combining tender meatballs, fresh greens, and tiny pasta in a savory broth, this soup delivers a balance of textures and tastes that is both satisfying and wholesome.
Why You’ll Love Italian Wedding Soup
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Hearty and nourishing without being heavy
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Easy to make at home
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Perfect for using fresh herbs and greens
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Family-friendly—kids love the tiny meatballs and pasta
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Freezable for busy weeks
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
For the Meatballs:
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250 g ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
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1/3 cup breadcrumbs
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 egg
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1 clove garlic, minced
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1 tsp dried oregano
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Salt and pepper to taste
For the Soup:
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 onion, finely chopped
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2 carrots, diced
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2 celery stalks, diced
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1.5 liters chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
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1 cup small pasta (orzo, acini di pepe, or ditalini)
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2 cups fresh spinach or escarole, chopped
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Extra Parmesan for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Meatballs
In a bowl, combine all meatball ingredients. Mix gently until just combined. Roll into 1-inch (2.5 cm) meatballs and set aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes, until softened and fragrant.
3. Cook the Soup Base
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Carefully drop the meatballs into the simmering broth. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Add Pasta and Greens
Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions, usually 8–10 minutes, until tender. Add the spinach or escarole in the last 2 minutes of cooking to wilt.
5. Season and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Tips for Perfect Italian Wedding Soup
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Use fresh herbs like parsley or basil for brighter flavor
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Don’t overmix meatballs—they stay tender if handled gently
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Cut vegetables small and uniform for even cooking
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Use small pasta shapes to complement the meatballs
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For extra richness, simmer a Parmesan rind in the broth
Variations
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Turkey or Chicken Meatballs: Lighter alternative to beef
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta
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Vegetarian: Use lentil or chickpea-based “meatballs” and vegetable broth
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatballs
Serving Suggestions
Italian Wedding Soup pairs beautifully with:
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Crusty bread or garlic toast
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A crisp green salad
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A glass of white wine or light rosé
Storage
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Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days
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Freeze cooked meatballs separately, and combine with reheated broth when ready to serve
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Pasta may absorb liquid when stored—add extra broth when reheating
Why This Soup Works
The balance of tender meatballs, fresh greens, small pasta, and savory broth makes Italian Wedding Soup both comforting and versatile. Every bite delivers a mix of textures and flavors, from the soft meatballs to the lightly crunchy vegetables.
Final Thoughts
Italian Wedding Soup is more than just a meal—it’s family-friendly, cozy, and flavorful. Easy to prepare yet impressive to serve, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, lunch gatherings, or special celebrations. With its rich broth, tender meatballs, and fresh greens, it’s sure to become a household favorite.