Italian Wedding Soup is a beloved comfort food that effortlessly combines hearty flavors with a nourishing touch. My love for this dish stems from its warm, inviting qualities—perfect for chilly evenings or festive gatherings. With its savory meatballs, tender vegetables, and a vibrant broth, this Italian classic truly captures the essence of wholesome, home-cooked meals.
Why you’ll love this dish
One of the standout features of Italian Wedding Soup is its versatility. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or hosting a family gathering, this dish adapts beautifully to any occasion. It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on flavor, making it a favorite among kids and adults alike. The soup is also packed with nutrients from fresh spinach and hearty vegetables, ensuring that each bowl is both delicious and fulfilling.
“This soup reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen—warm, cozy, and filled with love. Every spoonful is like a hug.”
Step-by-step overview
Making Italian Wedding Soup is a delightful journey. The process begins by preparing mini meatballs, which are packed with flavor. While those bake in the oven, a fragrant vegetable broth simmers on the stove. The addition of acini di pepe pasta gives the soup a delightful texture, while fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrients. Once cooked, the flavorful broth is finished off with lemon juice and extra Parmesan cheese, creating a wonderful depth of flavor.
What you’ll need
To create this comforting soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 8 ounces ground sausage, no casings
- 8 ounces ground beef
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons lukewarm water
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 2 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2/3 cup acini di pepe pasta
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust if needed)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (adjust if needed)
- 2/3 cup Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, and consider using vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly spin!
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground sausage, beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and Parmesan. Mix until moist but firm enough to form balls.
- Scoop about two teaspoons of the mixture, roll it into a ball, and place it on the baking sheet. Repeat until you have about 40 mini meatballs.
- Bake for 10 minutes, then set aside.
- In a large pot over medium heat, add red pepper flakes, olive oil, onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-6 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the chicken and beef broths, bring to a boil, then lower the heat and let simmer for 30 minutes.
- Add the pasta and cook until tender, about 6 minutes.
- Stir in the meatballs and spinach until wilted.
- Finish with salt, pepper, lemon juice, and more Parmesan. Serve warm with crusty bread.
Best ways to enjoy it
Italian Wedding Soup is best enjoyed warm, served in a deep bowl that showcases the vibrant colors of the meatballs and greens. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top adds a delightful finishing touch. Pair this soup with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh salad to complete the meal and provide a satisfying crunch.
Storage and reheating tips
To store any leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. For the best quality, freeze the soup without the pasta, as it can become mushy upon reheating. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
Helpful cooking tips
- Make sure to let the meatball mixture rest before shaping; this helps to meld the flavors.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste—don’t hesitate to add more herbs or spices.
- Mixing the meatballs in a cold bowl helps prevent them from becoming too sticky.
Creative twists
Feel free to experiment with this recipe! For a spicy kick, add more crushed red pepper flakes. Craving something different? Substitute ground lamb for the sausage for a unique flavor profile. You can also try adding different vegetables like zucchini or green beans to the mix.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare Italian Wedding Soup?
Preparation and cooking take around an hour, making it quick enough for a weeknight meal.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Italian Wedding Soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
What can I substitute for the acini di pepe pasta?
If you can’t find acini di pepe, small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini work well as substitutes.
Incorporating these tips and variations ensures your Italian Wedding Soup becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen. Enjoy each soothing spoonful, and savor the warmth and comfort that this dish brings!
