Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

This Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its flavorful meatballs, tender greens, and tiny pasta, this soup is perfect for chilly nights or cozy family gatherings. It stands out with its rich broth and hearty ingredients, making it a beloved choice for both special occasions and everyday meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just about 70 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Packed with fresh herbs and savory meatballs, every spoonful bursts with flavor.
• Versatile Options: Customize the soup with your choice of greens and pasta types to suit your taste.
• Large Batch: With 12 servings, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week ahead.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Enjoy a satisfying bowl that’s both nutritious and comforting.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious soup, you’ll need a few essential tools to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Large soup pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Mixing Bowl: This is essential for combining all the meatball ingredients without making a mess.
• Large Soup Pot: A spacious pot allows ample room for simmering the soup while ensuring even cooking.
• Meat Thermometer: Using this tool guarantees that your meatballs are cooked to the perfect internal temperature.

Ingredients

The ingredients for this Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe are simple yet packed with flavor.

For the Meatballs

• 8 oz. ground beef
• 8 oz. ground beef
• 2 slices fresh white bread, crust trimmed, torn into pieces
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tsp.)
• 1/2 medium white onion, grated or finely chopped
• 1/3 cup fresh parsley, minced
• 1/2 cup Pecorino Romano or Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, freshly grated
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1 large egg
• 2 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce (or substitute milk)

For the Soup Base

• 2 Tbsp. olive oil
• 1/2 medium white onion, chopped
• 3 large carrots, peeled and finely chopped
• 4 stalks celery, diced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 Tbsp. fresh sage, chopped

For the Broth & Greens

• 10-12 cups chicken broth (homemade preferred but store-bought is okay too)
• 2 cups cooked small pasta, such as acini di pepe or ditalini (or 1 cup uncooked)
• 8 cups greens (baby spinach, endive, kale, or escarole)

For Garnish

• Parmigiano Reggiano cheese for garnish
• Good quality olive oil (optional)

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How to Make Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the torn bread, minced garlic, grated onion, parsley, cheese, salt, egg, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until well combined. Then fold in the ground beef until thoroughly mixed.

Step 2: Roll into Balls (and Brown)

Roll the mixture into small meatballs about 3/4-inch in size using your hands or a small melon baller. Place them on a lined baking sheet. Optionally, brown them in batches in a large pot with olive oil for about two minutes until they’re three-quarters cooked before setting aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

In a large soup pot over low heat, add olive oil along with chopped onions, celery, carrots, salt, and pepper. Sweat these ingredients for about 15 minutes while stirring occasionally. Add minced garlic and sage; stir until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. For added flavor, consider adding the rind of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese at this stage.

Step 5: Add Meatballs

Carefully add the meatballs to the boiling broth. They will be done once they float to the top; ensure you check their internal temperature with a meat thermometer (145°F for beef). If using uncooked pasta, add it during this step as well.

Step 6: Add Greens, Garnish, and Serve

Stir in your choice of greens—baby spinach works beautifully here—and adjust seasonings as needed by tasting. To serve, place cooked pasta in each bowl followed by hot soup and garnish with Parmigiano Reggiano or Pecorino Romano cheese along with an optional drizzle of olive oil.

Enjoy your warm bowl of Easy Italian Wedding Soup!

How to Serve Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

Serving Easy Italian Wedding Soup is a delightful experience that enhances the cozy comfort of this dish. You can elevate your meal with a few simple additions and pairings that will satisfy your guests or family.

Garnish Ideas

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil on top for added flavor and color.
• Cheese: Offer grated Parmigiano Reggiano or Pecorino Romano for a rich, savory touch.
• Olive Oil Drizzle: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil adds richness and depth to each bowl.

Accompaniments

• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty Italian bread, perfect for dipping into the broth.
• Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the flavors and makes for a hearty addition.
• Salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette can balance the meal nicely.

Serving Style

• Individual Bowls: Ladle the soup into individual bowls for a personal touch.
• Family Style: Serve in a large pot at the table, allowing everyone to help themselves.

How to Perfect Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

To achieve the most flavorful Easy Italian Wedding Soup, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure that every bowl is packed with deliciousness.

• Bold Flavor Base: Start by sautéing vegetables slowly to build a rich flavor base; don’t rush this step.
• Homemade Broth: Use homemade chicken broth if possible; it enhances the overall taste significantly compared to store-bought options.
• Quality Meat: Choose high-quality ground beef for meatballs; it makes a noticeable difference in texture and taste.
• Fresh Greens: Add fresh greens just before serving to maintain their vibrant color and nutrients.
• Season Generously: Taste and adjust seasonings throughout cooking; this helps layers of flavor develop properly.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Italian Wedding Soup makes for a complete meal. Here are some excellent choices that complement the soup beautifully.

1. Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery knots brushed with garlic butter are perfect for dipping in the soup’s broth.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons provide a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, basil, and olive oil offers a fresh burst of flavor before your main course.
4. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice, cheese, and herbs make a tasty and filling side.
5. Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables creates an inviting appetizer spread.
6. Polenta Cakes: Creamy polenta cakes can be served alongside or even float in your soup for added texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your cooking experience and the dish’s flavor profile.

• Using stale bread: Fresh bread is crucial for meatball texture. Use day-old or fresh bread for better moisture retention.
• Overcrowding the pot: When browning meatballs, avoid overcrowding. This prevents them from getting a nice sear and can lead to uneven cooking.
• Skipping the herbs: Fresh herbs like sage and parsley add essential flavor. Don’t skip them; they elevate the soup significantly.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Always taste as you cook. Adjust salt and pepper to suit your preferences for a well-balanced flavor.
• Adding pasta too early: If using uncooked pasta, add it toward the end of cooking. This prevents it from becoming mushy in the broth.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of each container for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe special?

This recipe combines rich flavors from homemade meatballs and fresh greens in a savory broth, making it a comforting meal perfect for any occasion.

Can I use different types of greens in this soup?

Yes, while spinach is traditional, you can substitute with kale or escarole based on your preference or what you have on hand.

How can I customize my Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe?

Feel free to adjust the herbs or add other vegetables like zucchini or beans for extra nutrition and flavor.

Is this soup healthy?

Absolutely! This Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe is packed with lean protein from ground beef and plenty of vegetables, making it a nutritious choice.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! It’s actually better when made ahead as the flavors develop over time. Just store it properly as mentioned above.

Final Thoughts

The Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe is a delightful blend of flavors that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on personal tastes or seasonal availability. We encourage you to give it a try—your family will thank you!

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Easy Italian Wedding Soup

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves 12 1x

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Description

Easy Italian Wedding Soup is a heartwarming dish that combines savory meatballs, tender greens, and tiny pasta in a rich chicken broth. It’s a perfect choice for chilly evenings or family gatherings, offering both comfort and nutrition. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also adaptable to your tastes, allowing you to customize the greens and pasta. With its quick cooking time of approximately 70 minutes and the ability to serve 12, it’s ideal for both special occasions and everyday meals. Each bowl is packed with flavor, making it a beloved favorite that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz ground beef
• 2 slices fresh white bread
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 medium white onion
• 1/3 cup fresh parsley
• 10–12 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups cooked small pasta (like acini di pepe)
• 8 cups greens (spinach, kale, or escarole)

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, mix torn bread, minced garlic, grated onion, parsley, cheese, salt, egg, and Worcestershire sauce. Fold in ground beef until combined.
2. Roll mixture into small meatballs (about 3/4-inch) and place on a baking sheet.
3. In a soup pot over low heat, sauté onions, carrots, celery with olive oil for about 15 minutes. Add garlic and sage.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Optionally add Parmigiano Reggiano rind.
5. Gently add meatballs to boiling broth; check doneness with a meat thermometer (145°F).
6. Stir in the greens just before serving; adjust seasonings as needed.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 220
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 14g
• Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: Use homemade chicken broth for richer flavor. Customize the greens based on availability or preference. This soup stores well; refrigerate up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.