Italian Wedding Soup is a comforting, flavorful classic that combines savory meatballs, tender greens, and tiny pasta in a rich, aromatic broth. Despite its name, the soup has no direct connection to weddings—it’s a translation of “minestra maritata,” meaning “married soup,” referring to the beautiful harmony of ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is beloved for its balance of hearty and light. The tender meatballs offer a rich, savory bite, while the greens and broth keep it fresh and nourishing. It’s a one-pot meal that’s simple to prepare and makes for fantastic leftovers. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving a bowl of something warm and comforting, Italian Wedding Soup delivers.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground pork and beef
• Fresh breadcrumbs
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Egg
• Garlic
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil
• Chicken stock or broth
• Carrots
• Celery
• Onion
• Acini di pepe or other small pasta
• Fresh spinach or escarole
• Fresh parsley

directions

1. Make the meatballs: Mix ground meats, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs.
2. Sauté aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened.
3. Add broth and meatballs: Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a boil. Add the meatballs and simmer for about 10 minutes.
4. Add pasta: Stir in the pasta and cook until tender.
5. Add greens: Add spinach or escarole and cook until wilted.
6. Finish: Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 6 people.

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Swap spinach for kale or escarole depending on your preference.
• Add a touch of lemon juice for brightness.
• For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta.

storage/reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months.

To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or microwave until heated through. If the pasta absorbs too much liquid, just add a splash of broth or water.

FAQs

What does “Italian Wedding Soup” mean?

The term refers to the “marriage” of flavors between meat and greens, not an actual wedding.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, it’s a great make-ahead meal. The flavors develop even more after a day.

What type of pasta should I use?

Acini di pepe is traditional, but orzo or pastina work well too.

Can I use frozen meatballs?

Yes, but homemade adds better flavor. If using frozen, adjust cooking time as needed.

Is this soup healthy?

Yes, it’s packed with vegetables and protein. For lower fat, use lean meats and less cheese.

Can I freeze Italian Wedding Soup?

Absolutely. Freeze without the pasta for best texture, then add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.

How do I keep the meatballs from falling apart?

Don’t overmix the meatball mixture and make sure the egg and breadcrumbs are well incorporated.

What greens are best for this soup?

Spinach, escarole, or kale are great options. Choose based on your taste preference.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, use vegetable broth and plant-based meatballs or beans instead of meat.

What can I serve with Italian Wedding Soup?

Crusty bread, a simple salad, or garlic knots make great sides.

Conclusion

Italian Wedding Soup is a timeless classic that brings together simple ingredients in a satisfying and nourishing way. It’s a perfect dish to warm you up, feed a family, or impress guests with its traditional charm and robust flavor. Whether enjoyed fresh or as leftovers, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

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