Italian Wedding Soup

Name: Italian Wedding Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups chicken broth; 1 cup uncooked small pasta (like acini di pepe); 4 cups fresh spinach or escarole, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 pound ground beef or turkey; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Homestyle Meals

A hearty and comforting soup filled with meatballs, greens, and flavorful broth, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2025-12-09T22:13:11.511Z

Italian Wedding Soup is a traditional dish that brings together the flavors of Italy in a warm and satisfying bowl. This recipe combines tender meatballs, fresh greens, and a savory broth, making it a beloved choice for family gatherings and cozy dinners.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, perfect for chilly evenings
A delightful mix of flavors and textures in every spoonful
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables

      

A Comforting Classic

Italian Wedding Soup is a beloved dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table. Originating from Southern Italy, this soup is traditionally served at weddings, symbolizing prosperity and happiness. Its hearty nature makes it not just a dish for special occasions, but a staple that can be enjoyed any time of the year.

The combination of savory meatballs, fresh greens, and tender pasta creates a well-balanced meal that satisfies both hunger and cravings. It’s a wonderful way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while indulging in rich flavors. Each spoonful is a delightful experience, making it a favorite among families.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best aspects of Italian Wedding Soup is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Swap out the spinach for kale or add other vegetables like carrots and peas for extra nutrition. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a unique version of this classic dish.

Additionally, you can experiment with different proteins for the meatballs. Whether you prefer beef, turkey, or even a vegetarian option made with beans, this soup can adapt to suit various dietary needs. This flexibility makes it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights or when you’re looking to impress at a gathering.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Italian Wedding Soup is an excellent choice for meal prep enthusiasts. It stores beautifully in the refrigerator for a few days, and the flavors deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day. You can easily double the recipe to have plenty of leftovers for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

When storing, consider keeping the pasta separate until you’re ready to serve. This prevents it from becoming too soft and mushy. With a simple reheat, you can enjoy a warm and hearty bowl of soup that feels freshly made, saving you valuable time without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients

For the Soup

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups chicken broth
1 cup uncooked small pasta (like acini di pepe)
4 cups fresh spinach or escarole, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Meatballs

1 pound ground beef or turkey
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix the ingredients well and form into small meatballs before adding them to the soup.

Instructions

Prepare the Meatballs

In a bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and form into small meatballs.

Cook the Meatballs

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add diced onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent.

Add Broth and Pasta

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions.

Combine and Finish

Return meatballs to the pot and add chopped greens. Simmer until the greens are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan if desired.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Italian Wedding Soup experience, consider serving it with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. This combination not only enhances the meal but also adds a delightful crunch and freshness to your dining experience. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top can also add a savory depth that complements the soup beautifully.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, a dash of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick to the soup. Pairing the dish with a light Italian white wine can also enhance the flavors, making it a perfect pairing for a cozy dinner.

Storage and Freezing Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, the Italian Wedding Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing the soup. Just be sure to leave out the pasta until you’re ready to eat, as it can become mushy when frozen and reheated.

To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be kept frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove, adding fresh pasta if desired for that perfect texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen meatballs?

Yes, frozen meatballs can be used; just add them directly to the broth during cooking.

→ What greens can I use?

You can use spinach, kale, or escarole depending on your preference.

→ Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Yes, this soup can be frozen. Just store it in an airtight container before adding the greens.

→ Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the meat with plant-based protein and the chicken broth with vegetable broth.