Italian Wedding Soup: A Hearty Classic for Cozy Nights
There’s something deeply satisfying about a bowl of Italian wedding soup—tiny, tender meatballs nestled in a golden broth with vibrant greens and delicate pasta. This beloved dish is a celebration of flavor and comfort, perfect for cold nights or any time you need a nourishing, soul-warming meal. Whether you’ve had it at your nonna’s table or are just discovering its magic, Italian wedding soup brings tradition, texture, and taste together like few others.
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Italian Wedding Soup: A Hearty Classic for Cozy Nights
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This Italian wedding soup is a heartwarming blend of savory homemade meatballs, tender vegetables, and delicate acini de pepe pasta in a rich chicken broth. Wilted spinach adds freshness and balance to this traditional Italian-American classic, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner or cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning)
1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
1 egg, beaten
½ cup plain breadcrumbs
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 garlic cloves, minced
⅓ cup finely chopped fresh parsley
¾ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Soup:
1 yellow onion, diced
1¼ cups carrots, diced
2 celery ribs, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
¾ cup acini de pepe pasta (or similar small pasta)
4 to 5 cups fresh spinach
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish:
Additional Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, gently mix together ground beef, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs, about ¾-inch in size.
2. Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Brown the meatballs in batches for about 2 minutes per batch, turning to get a good sear. They will finish cooking in the soup. Set aside.
3. In the same pot, reduce heat to medium. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 6 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for another minute.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Reduce to a simmer, then gently return the browned meatballs to the pot. Simmer uncovered for about 10–15 minutes.
5. While the soup simmers, cook pasta in a separate pot according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
6. Stir fresh spinach into the soup and cook for 1–2 minutes, just until wilted.
7. Place a scoop of cooked pasta into each bowl. Ladle soup over the pasta. Garnish with grated Parmesan if desired.
Notes
Cook the pasta separately to keep the broth clear and the pasta from getting too soft.
This soup stores well—keep pasta and broth separate when refrigerating.
Feel free to substitute kale or escarole for spinach, or use turkey instead of beef for the meatballs.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soups
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
The History and Tradition of Italian Wedding Soup
Though its name might suggest a festive wedding tradition, Italian wedding soup isn’t typically served at Italian nuptials. The term “wedding” actually refers to the “marriage” of ingredients—particularly the harmonious pairing of meat and greens. It’s a soup that tells a story of rustic roots and seasonal cooking, drawing on simple, nourishing elements that make a humble yet unforgettable meal.
Origins of Italian Wedding Soup
This dish’s roots trace back to southern Italy, where similar soups have long featured bitter greens and bits of meat simmered in broth. It wasn’t until the soup made its way to America with Italian immigrants that the dish took on its more familiar form—complete with tiny pasta like acini de pepe and milder greens such as spinach.
The Misunderstood Name of the Dish
The phrase “minestra maritata” literally means “married soup,” not because of weddings, but because of how well the meat and vegetables complement each other. Over time, this poetic translation morphed into “wedding soup,” and the name stuck—especially in Italian-American households where tradition and adaptation often go hand-in-hand.
How Italian Wedding Soup Became a Comfort Food Staple
Today, Italian wedding soup is a cozy favorite for Sunday dinners, holiday starters, or meal-prep lunches. It bridges the gap between hearty and light, with its tiny meatballs and fresh greens swimming in broth. For those who crave both nourishment and tradition, it’s an easy go-to, especially when homemade from scratch.
Building Flavor from the Ground Up with the Meatballs
At the heart of this soup lies one unforgettable component: the meatballs. Unlike dense meatballs used for pasta, these are small, tender, and seasoned just enough to shine in every spoonful.
Why Homemade Meatballs Make a Difference
Store-bought shortcuts can’t match the taste of freshly rolled meatballs made with grated Parmesan, garlic, parsley, and breadcrumbs. The balance of fat in 85% lean ground beef ensures richness without heaviness, creating meatballs that cook beautifully in broth without falling apart.
The Perfect Seasoning Blend for Italian Wedding Soup
This recipe uses garlic and parsley to lift the flavor, while Parmesan cheese adds umami depth. Salt and black pepper round it out. Every bite of meatball carries warmth and subtle sharpness, a contrast to the clean taste of the broth and vegetables.
Browning Techniques for Juicy, Flavorful Results
A quick sear in olive oil gives the meatballs a savory crust, locking in juices and adding dimension to the soup. While they finish cooking in the broth, this browning step adds a rich foundation that elevates the entire bowl.
The Soul of the Soup: Vegetables, Broth, and Pasta
Italian wedding soup is nothing without its supporting cast of vegetables and broth. Together, they create the aromatic canvas that makes the meatballs shine.
Choosing the Right Base for Italian Wedding Soup
A high-quality low-sodium chicken broth lets you control the salt while adding full-bodied flavor. Sautéing onions, carrots, and celery beforehand builds sweetness and aroma, anchoring the soup with a classic soffritto base.
The Role of Acini de Pepe in Texture and Tradition
Acini de pepe—tiny, pearl-like pasta—is a staple in authentic Italian wedding soup. It brings a delightful texture that contrasts with the greens and floats effortlessly in the broth. Cooking it separately ensures it stays firm and doesn’t cloud the soup.
Sautéing Vegetables for Depth and Sweetness
Before adding broth, the onion, carrot, and celery trio are sautéed until just tender. A final stir of minced garlic and Italian seasoning infuses the pot with fragrance, turning ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary.
The Final Touch: Spinach, Simmering, and Serving
Once the base is ready, the final steps are where this soup transforms from good to unforgettable.
Why Fresh Spinach Makes All the Difference
Adding fresh spinach at the end lets it wilt just enough to retain its texture and bright green color. It’s this pop of freshness that balances the richness of the meat and warmth of the broth—an essential “green” marriage in the bowl.
When to Add Pasta for Perfect Consistency
To prevent overcooked, soggy pasta, keep it separate until serving. Just before eating, place a scoop into your bowl and ladle the soup over. This preserves the texture and ensures every bite is just right.
Garnishing Tips to Elevate Every Bowl
A final dusting of freshly grated Parmesan cheese is all it takes to finish this soup with a savory, nutty lift. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a grind of black pepper doesn’t hurt either—especially if you’re serving guests or enjoying a quiet dinner in.
Pairing and Serving Ideas for Italian Wedding Soup
Italian wedding soup is versatile enough for lunch, dinner, or special occasions. Pair it thoughtfully, and it can easily become the star of your table.
What to Serve Alongside This Hearty Soup
A warm hunk of rustic bread or a slice of creamy chicken soup-inspired garlic toast pairs beautifully with this broth-based dish. If you’re feeling ambitious, a light antipasto platter or crisp Caesar salad can make it a full Italian-style meal.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers Without Losing Flavor
Store the soup and pasta separately in airtight containers. When reheating, warm the broth and meatballs over medium heat and add the pasta right before serving to preserve its texture. It keeps well for up to 4 days and also freezes beautifully—just omit the pasta until ready to serve.
Creative Twists: Making the Recipe Your Own
Try swapping spinach for kale or escarole, or use ground turkey in place of beef. A hint of lemon zest or a pinch of red pepper flakes can also add a bright or spicy twist. You can even draw inspiration from other cozy classics like this potato leek soup for creative pairings or ingredient substitutions.
FAQs About Italian Wedding Soup
What is the traditional Italian Wedding Soup recette?
The traditional recette (recipe) includes small meatballs made with beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, and garlic. These are simmered in chicken broth with vegetables like carrots and celery, tiny pasta like acini de pepe, and leafy greens such as spinach or escarole.
What ingredients are in Italian Wedding Soup?
Italian wedding soup typically includes ground meat for meatballs, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, onion, carrots, celery, Italian seasoning, chicken broth, acini de pepe pasta, and spinach. Salt and pepper round out the flavor, and extra Parmesan is often added for garnish.
Can I make Italian Wedding Soup ahead of time?
Absolutely. The soup stores well in the fridge for several days. For best results, cook the pasta separately and store it apart from the broth. Reheat gently on the stovetop and add pasta just before serving.
Is there a vegetarian version of Italian Wedding Soup?
Yes, you can substitute the meatballs with plant-based alternatives or omit them entirely. Use vegetable broth and boost the umami with mushrooms, lentils, or white beans for protein and heartiness.
Conclusion
Why Italian Wedding Soup Deserves a Spot in Your Recipe Rotation
From its deeply savory broth to its tender homemade meatballs, Italian wedding soup delivers comfort in every bite. It’s a classic for good reason—simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable.
A Timeless Bowl of Comfort You’ll Crave Again and Again
Whether it’s your first time making it or your fiftieth, this soup has a way of finding its way back to your table. It’s not just about the flavor—it’s about the feeling of warmth and tradition it brings with it.
From Family Dinners to Freezer Meals: It’s a Keeper
Italian wedding soup checks all the boxes: easy to make, freezer-friendly, and universally loved. Once you master this recipe, it’s sure to become a staple in your home, ready to comfort and nourish whenever you need it.
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