Delicious Italian Wedding Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights

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Italian Wedding Soup is a classic Italian dish that warms the heart and soul. It features tender meatballs, small pasta, fresh greens, and a flavorful chicken broth infused with pesto and Parmesan. This comforting soup is perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, offering a wonderful balance of flavors and textures that is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Italian Wedding Soup

This Italian wedding soup is a delightful blend of flavors and nutrition. Here are a few reasons to adore it:

Rich in protein from meatballs and beans.
Loaded with vegetables like carrots, celery, and spinach.
Easy to prepare, making it an excellent weeknight meal.
Perfect for special occasions or family gatherings.
Can be customized with your favorite ingredients.
Offers nutritional benefits like vitamins and minerals.
Enjoy as a comforting meal that’s gluten-free!

Ingredients for Italian Wedding Soup

Gather these items:

½ lb ground beef (85% lean)
½ lb ground pork
1 egg, beaten
½ cup Italian breadcrumbs
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
⅓ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
¾ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 large carrots, diced
3 celery stalks, diced
8 cups chicken stock
1 cup uncooked ditalini pasta (or small pasta like acini di pepe or orzo)
¼ cup fresh basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
3 cups packed fresh spinach leaves
2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Additional grated Parmesan for serving

How to Make Italian Wedding Soup Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, minced garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well and form into ¾-inch meatballs.
Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Brown meatballs in batches, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: In the same pot, add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
Step 4: Add chicken stock to the pot and bring to a boil. Return meatballs to the pot and simmer gently for 10 minutes.
Step 5: Add ditalini pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
Step 6: Stir in pesto, Parmesan, spinach, and lemon juice. Cook until spinach wilts, about 2 minutes.
Step 7: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with extra Parmesan on top.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Italian Wedding Soup

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Don’t overcook the pasta; it can become mushy.
Make extra meatballs and freeze them for future use.
This soup can be made in advance and reheated for quick meals.

Best Ways to Serve Italian Wedding Soup

Enjoy this soup alone or with:

Crusty Italian bread for dipping.
Freshly grated Parmesan on top for extra flavor.
Pair with a simple salad for a complete meal.

How to Store and Reheat Italian Wedding Soup

To store leftover soup, let it cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat on the stovetop until warmed through. This is a great meal prep option for busy weeks!

Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Wedding Soup

What’s the secret to perfect Italian Wedding Soup?

The key to perfect Italian wedding soup is using high-quality ingredients, especially for the broth, and ensuring your meatballs are well-seasoned and tender.

Can I make Italian Wedding Soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this soup in advance. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it properly and reheat before serving.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Italian Wedding Soup?

To avoid common mistakes, monitor the cooking time for the pasta, ensuring it remains al dente. Also, don’t skip on seasoning; taste as you go!

Variations of Italian Wedding Soup You Can Try

There are many ways to customize your Italian wedding soup:

Swap out the meat for turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Add beans for extra protein and a heartier texture.
Experiment with different greens like kale or Swiss chard.
For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes.

Delicious Italian Wedding Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights - Italian Wedding Soup - main visual representation

For more delicious recipes, check out our Creamy Stuffed Banana Pepper Soup or Hearty Tomato Soup with Cheddar.

Delicious Italian Wedding Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights - Italian Wedding Soup - additional detail

For more tips on meal prep, you can also explore One Pot Autumn Beef and Creamy Pesto Spinach Gnocchi.