Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

This Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe is a delightful comfort food that warms the soul. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. With savory meatballs made from ground beef, fresh greens, and tiny pasta in a rich broth, this dish brings together hearty flavors in every spoonful. Enjoy it as a main course or serve it on special occasions to impress your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in about an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Meatballs: The mixture of beef and fresh ingredients creates juicy meatballs that elevate the soup.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize the greens and pasta types based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with vegetables and protein, this soup is both satisfying and healthy.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the rich flavors and comforting nature of this dish.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe, gather some essential kitchen tools that will make cooking easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Large soup pot
• Wooden spoon
• Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to combine all meatball ingredients without mess.
• Large soup pot: This ensures even cooking of the soup while allowing plenty of room for all ingredients.
• Meat thermometer: Guarantees that your meatballs are cooked to the right temperature for safety.

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Ingredients

This classic comfort dish is packed with flavorful meatballs made with ground beef, tender greens, and tiny pasta in a rich, savory broth. Perfect for chilly nights or a cozy family meal!

For the Meatballs

• 8 oz. beef, ground
• 8 oz. beef, ground
• 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 (or sub 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. sage, fresh, chopped

For Serving

• 10-12 cups chicken broth (homemade preferred but store bought is OK 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)
• Parmigiano Reggiano for garnish and good quality olive oil (optional)

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. Once combined thoroughly, gently add in both portions of ground beef until well 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 baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Optionally brown them in batches for about 2 minutes in a large pot with a bit of olive oil before adding them to the soup.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

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

Step 4: Add Broth

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

Step 5: Add Meatballs

Gently add the meatballs into the boiling broth. They are done when they float to the top—ensure they reach an internal temperature of 145°F using a meat thermometer. If you’re using uncooked pasta, add it now.

Step 6: Add Greens, Garnish, and Serve

Stir in your choice of greens (like baby spinach). Taste for seasoning and adjust if needed. To serve, spoon cooked pasta into bowls followed by the soup. Garnish with freshly grated cheese and drizzle with olive oil if desired. Enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

Serving Easy Italian Wedding Soup is a delightful way to impress your family and friends. This comforting dish pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors and make the meal even more special.

With Crusty Bread

• Fresh Baguette: Serve slices of freshly baked baguette for dipping into the soup.
• Garlic Bread: A side of buttery garlic bread adds a savory touch that complements the broth.

With a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, and crunchy croutons offer a refreshing contrast.
• Mediterranean Salad: Combine cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta for a vibrant salad that balances the rich soup.

Garnished with Cheese

• Extra Cheese: Top each bowl with more freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano for added flavor.
• Herbed Oil Drizzle: A drizzle of high-quality olive oil infused with herbs can elevate the dish’s taste.

How to Perfect Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

To ensure your Easy Italian Wedding Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality broth significantly enhance the flavor.
• Don’t Overcrowd Meatballs: If browning meatballs, do it in batches to avoid steaming them instead of searing.
• Adjust Broth Consistency: If the soup is too thick, add more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving; it ensures balanced flavors.
• Cook Pasta Separately: Cooking pasta separately prevents it from becoming mushy in the soup.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with Easy Italian Wedding Soup can create a well-rounded meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter and topped with Parmesan cheese are perfect for dipping.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender makes for a colorful and healthy side.
3. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide a fresh bite.
4. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of olives, marinated artichokes, and cheeses offers varied textures and flavors.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Delicious mushrooms filled with breadcrumbs, herbs, and cheese make a savory addition to your meal.
6. Simple Green Salad: Mixed greens tossed with lemon vinaigrette adds lightness to balance the richness of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe can be a delightful experience, but it’s important to avoid some common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your soup.

• Overmixing the meatballs: This can lead to tough meatballs. Mix just until combined for tender results.
• Skipping browning the meatballs: Browning adds depth of flavor. Take the extra time to brown them in olive oil before adding them to the soup.
• Using low-quality broth: A rich broth enhances the dish. Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought chicken broth for the best flavor.
• Not seasoning adequately: Taste as you go! Adjust salt and pepper at various stages to ensure balanced flavor.
• Adding greens too early: This can make them overcooked and mushy. Add greens towards the end to keep them vibrant and tender.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

• Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers for expansion when freezing.

Reheating Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute increments until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot and heat over medium until simmering, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about some specifics regarding the Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe, here are answers to common questions.

Can I use different types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or lamb for beef depending on your taste preferences.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version, omit meatballs and use vegetable broth with additional beans or lentils as protein.

What type of pasta works best in this recipe?

Small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or ditalini work well, but feel free to use your favorite small pasta.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include veggies like zucchini or peas for added nutrition and flavor.

How long does this soup last in the fridge?

The soup will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator if stored properly.

Is this soup good for meal prep?

Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep as it freezes well and tastes even better after flavors meld together overnight.

Final Thoughts

The Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe is not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or adjusting seasonings according to your taste. This makes it an ideal choice for family dinners or cozy nights in. Try making it today!