What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This Homemade Italian Wedding Soup is a comforting classic that brings warmth to any table. You’ll love how simple it is to make, yet it tastes like it’s been simmering all day. Every spoonful is packed with tender meatballs, fresh veggies, and delicate pasta. It’s a hearty meal that feels fancy but is perfect for weeknights. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day!
Recipe
Italian Wedding Soup is a classic comfort dish that combines savory meatballs, tender greens, and delicate pasta in a flavorful broth. This hearty soup is perfect for any occasion, offering a delicious blend of textures and tastes that will warm you from the inside out.
Ingredients:
- For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb ground pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- For the Soup:
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup small pasta (such as acini di pepe or orzo)
- 2 cups chopped escarole or spinach
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Meatballs: In a bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into small meatballs (about 1-inch in diameter).
- Cook the Meatballs: In a large pot, bring chicken broth and water to a simmer. Gently drop the meatballs into the broth and cook for about 10 minutes, or until fully cooked.
- Add Pasta and Greens: Stir in the pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes until tender. Add the chopped escarole or spinach and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes:
- For a lighter version, use ground turkey instead of beef and pork.
- If escarole is unavailable, spinach or kale can be substituted.
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
Time:
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 25 minutes
Cuisine: Italian
Serving: 6-8 servings
Nutrition
1 serving of homemade Italian Wedding Soup provides a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and essential nutrients.
| Nutrition | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 4 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Cholesterol | 45 mg |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Potassium | 320 mg |
What To Serve With It
You can’t go wrong with crusty bread—it’s perfect for soaking up every last drop of that flavorful broth. A simple side salad with fresh greens and a light vinaigrette balances the soup’s richness nicely. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, garlic bread adds a deliciously buttery crunch that pairs beautifully with the soup’s warmth.
Bread Pairings
While a steaming bowl of Italian wedding soup is delicious on its own, I love serving it with warm, crusty bread to soak up every last bit of that savory broth. A rustic Italian loaf or a baguette works perfectly—just slice it thick and toast it lightly for extra crunch. If you’re feeling indulgent, garlic bread adds a flavorful twist, while focaccia’s herby notes complement the soup beautifully. For something simpler, ciabatta’s airy texture is ideal for dipping. No matter what you choose, the bread elevates the meal, turning it into a cozy, satisfying experience. Trust me, you won’t want to skip it!
Side Salad Ideas
A fresh side salad can be the perfect accompaniment to Italian wedding soup, adding a crisp, invigorating contrast to the rich flavors. I love tossing together a simple garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette. Sometimes, I’ll add shaved Parmesan or croutons for extra texture. A Caesar salad with crunchy romaine and creamy dressing also pairs beautifully. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll whip up an Italian-inspired salad with arugula, olives, roasted peppers, and a drizzle of olive oil. These salads not only brighten the meal but also make every bite feel balanced and satisfying.
