Embrace the rich flavors of Italy right in your kitchen with this comforting bowl of Homemade Italian Wedding Soup. This delightful recipe is not just a blend of ingredients—it’s a heartwarming combination of tender meatballs, fresh vegetables, and wholesome broth that transports you to cozy Italian kitchens. Each spoonful offers robust flavors, making it a favorite for family dinners or a quick weekday meal. The magic truly lies in how simple it is to prepare yet satisfying to enjoy, creating a dish that appeals to kids and adults alike.
What truly enhances the experience of Homemade Italian Wedding Soup is the delightful addition of acini di pepe or orzo pasta, which complement the tender meatballs perfectly. The vibrant spinach not only adds gorgeous color but also a nutritious boost, while the fragrant herbs and spices enrich each flavorful bite. Plus, it’s a great way to use up herbs and greens that are sitting in your fridge. This recipe is perfect for serving on chilly days, during celebrations, or whenever you want something hearty and delicious. It’s simple, wholesome, and sure to become a beloved staple in your collection!
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Italian Wedding Soup
- Comforting Flavor: The combination of rich broth, flavorful meatballs, and fresh vegetables creates a uniquely comforting experience.
- Family-Friendly: This soup appeals to even the pickiest of eaters, making it an ideal family meal.
- Easy Preparation: The straightforward steps make it accessible for cooks of all skill levels, while the hearty ingredients ensure a satisfying dish.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with spinach and vegetables, each bowl is loaded with nutrients.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it great for leftovers.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into making your Homemade Italian Wedding Soup, it’s important to prepare your kitchen. Begin by gathering all your ingredients and tools to streamline the cooking process. You will need a large pot or dutch oven for simmering the soup, a skillet for browning meatballs, and a mixing bowl for combining the meatball ingredients.
Make sure to chop your vegetables ahead of time to ensure even cooking and better distribution of flavors. Investing in a good set of knives can speed up this process, and a sturdy wooden spoon will greatly assist in stirring. Since you’ll be overlapping some steps—such as browning the meatballs and sautéing vegetables—having everything organized will prevent any last-minute rush. This methodical preparation adds to the enjoyment of the cooking experience.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dry acini di pepe or orzo
- 8 oz lean ground beef
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 8 oz regular ground beef
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup fresh white bread crumbs
- 1 1/4 cups chopped yellow onion
- 1 Tbsp olive oil (for sautéing vegetables)
- 3/4 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup finely shredded parmesan (plus more for serving)
- 1 Tbsp olive oil (for browning meatballs)
- 1 1/2 tsp minced fresh oregano (or 3/4 tsp dried)
- 6 oz fresh baby spinach, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 5 cans (14.5 oz each) low-sodium chicken broth
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 1/4 cups chopped carrots
Instructions
Step 1: Mix & Form Meatballs
Begin by preparing the meatballs, which will serve as the soul of your soup. In a spacious mixing bowl, combine both the lean ground beef and regular ground beef. Add the breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, oregano, parmesan, egg, as well as salt and pepper. Use your hands to mix the ingredients gently but thoroughly—be careful not to overwork the meat. Once your mixture is well combined, shape it into small meatballs, roughly ¾–1 inch in size. Set them aside as you prepare to cook.
Step 2: Brown the Meatballs
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, carefully add the meatballs into the pan, ensuring not to overcrowd them. Allow them to brown on 2–3 sides before removing them from the skillet. This step is crucial as it locks in the flavors and gives the meatballs a beautiful golden crust. Do not worry if they are not fully cooked at this point; they will later simmer in the soup.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
In your large pot, heat another tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, toss in the chopped onions, carrots, and celery, sautéing for about 6–8 minutes or until they are tender. The goal is to soften the vegetables and allow their flavors to develop. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute. The aroma from the garlic will invigorate your kitchen—it’s truly delightful!
Step 4: Add Broth & Simmer
Pour in the low-sodium chicken broth and season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the broth to a gentle boil, allowing all those wonderful flavors to meld together. Once boiling, reduce the heat to maintain a simmer, ensuring it doesn’t boil over.
Step 5: Cook Pasta & Meatballs
Next, gently add the browned meatballs to the pot along with the acini di pepe or orzo pasta. Let everything simmer together for about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on the pot; make sure to stir occasionally. You know it’s ready when the meatballs are cooked through and the pasta is soft and tender. It’s essential to keep the heat low to prevent the soup from becoming too starchy.
Step 6: Add Spinach
In the last minute of cooking, fold in the chopped spinach, stirring until just wilted. This final addition of spinach adds a vibrant pop of color to your soup and provides valuable nutrients. Right before you serve, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Feel free to add an extra sprinkle of parsley or parmesan for an additional layer of flavor!
Variations
- Protein: Swap out the beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also try using Italian sausage for added flavor.
- Vegetables: Enhance the soup by adding other vegetables like zucchini, green beans, or bell peppers. Feel free to use whatever is in season!
- Spices: Experiment with spices by adding red pepper flakes for heat, or herbs like thyme or basil to change the flavor profile.
Cooking Notes
- For the best results, use lean meat to prevent grease in your soup.
- If you cannot find acini di pepe or orzo, any small pasta will work perfectly in this recipe.
- Storing leftovers in the fridge will cause the pasta to absorb some liquid; simply add a touch of broth when reheating.
- Feel free to double the recipe if you want to freeze some for future meals. Just ensure you let it cool completely before transferring to storage containers.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese on top.
- Pair with crusty Italian bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious broth.
- Add a refreshing side salad for a complete meal.
Tips
- Use fresh herbs when possible for a brighter flavor.
- If you’re short on time, consider pre-made meatballs for a quicker option.
- Tweak the recipe to your liking—make it vegetarian by omitting the meatballs and adding more vegetables.
- Consider garnishing with a drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon for extra freshness.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 600mg
FAQs
What is Italian Wedding Soup?
Italian Wedding Soup is a traditional Italian-American dish that blends the heartiness of meatballs and green vegetables in a savory broth. It’s not served at weddings but gets its name from the perfect ‘marriage’ of flavors in the dish.
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the soup.
How can I make this soup gluten-free?
You can substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and ensure the breadcrumbs are gluten-free. This way, you can still enjoy a satisfying bowl without the gluten.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it a day ahead, refrigerate, and it will enhance in flavor. Just reheat and add a splash of broth to loosen it before serving.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Homemade Italian Wedding Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings comfort and joy to the table. It’s a timeless recipe that offers both simplicity and depth of flavor, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or simply treating yourself on a weekday, this soup is sure to impress. If you haven’t already, give it a try, and don’t forget to share your thoughts or any fun variations you make in the comments below! Enjoy the warmth and deliciousness that this remarkable dish brings to your kitchen!