Italian Wedding Soup with Meatballs

Italian Wedding Soup with Meatballs is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender meatballs, delicate pasta, and fresh greens simmered in a rich chicken broth. This classic soup is perfect for any occasion, offering a delicious balance of protein, vegetables, and hearty pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and comforting: A warm and satisfying soup perfect for any time of the year.
• Homemade meatballs: Freshly made meatballs add incredible flavor and texture.
• Nutritious and balanced: Packed with protein, vitamins, and wholesome ingredients.
• Easy to make: Simple steps make this a great recipe for any skill level.
• Customizable: Swap ingredients to fit dietary preferences or what you have on hand.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Meatballs:

• 1/2 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb ground pork (or ground chicken/turkey)
• 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Soup:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 3/4 cup acini di pepe pasta (or orzo)
• 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or escarole/kale)
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Directions

Prepare the Meatballs:

1. In a bowl, mix all the meatball ingredients until well combined.
2. Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs (about 3/4 inch in diameter) and set aside.

Make the Soup:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.

Cook the Meatballs & Pasta:

1. Gently drop the meatballs into the boiling broth. Reduce heat to a simmer.
2. Let them cook for about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in the acini di pepe pasta and simmer for another 10 minutes until the pasta is tender.

Add the Greens & Serve:

1. Stir in the fresh spinach and let it wilt for 1-2 minutes.
2. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
3. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Meat Options: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Greens Substitutes: Swap spinach for kale, escarole, or Swiss chard.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and a gluten-free pasta alternative.
• Low-Carb: Skip the pasta and add extra vegetables for a lighter version.
• Cheese Lovers: Stir in a bit of Parmesan or Pecorino Romano into the broth for extra richness.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze the soup without the pasta for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw and cook fresh pasta separately before adding it to the soup.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If needed, add a little broth to maintain consistency.

FAQs

How can I keep the meatballs from falling apart?

Ensure the mixture is well combined, and don’t overmix. Chilling the meatballs for 10-15 minutes before cooking can also help them hold their shape.

Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate the meatballs up to a day in advance or freeze them for longer storage.

What can I use instead of acini di pepe?

Orzo, ditalini, or small pasta shapes work well as substitutes.

Can I use store-bought meatballs?

Yes, but homemade meatballs provide better texture and flavor. If using frozen ones, adjust cooking time accordingly.

Is this soup good for meal prep?

Yes, but it’s best to store the broth and pasta separately to prevent the pasta from absorbing too much liquid.

How do I make this soup more flavorful?

Use homemade chicken broth and freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a deeper flavor.

Can I use beef broth instead of chicken broth?

Chicken broth is traditional, but beef broth can give the soup a richer taste.

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Cook the pasta separately and add it to individual servings if you plan to store leftovers.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Carrots, celery, or zucchini would be great additions.

Is this soup healthy?

Yes, it’s a balanced meal with protein, vegetables, and a moderate amount of carbs.

Conclusion

Italian Wedding Soup with Meatballs is a classic, comforting dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor. With homemade meatballs, tender pasta, and fresh greens in a savory broth, this soup is perfect for any occasion. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or customize it to your taste, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy it fresh or save some for later—either way, it’s a delicious and hearty meal!