There’s something magical about a steaming bowl of Easy Italian Wedding Soup. Picture this: a hearty mix of tender meatballs, vibrant greens, and al dente pasta all swirling together in a savory broth that warms your soul. Each spoonful is like a hug from an Italian grandmother who knows exactly what you need on a chilly evening.
This soup isn’t just food; it’s an experience that fills the air with mouthwatering aromas and brings people together. I remember the first time I tasted wedding soup at a family gathering—everyone gathered around the table, laughter echoing, and my aunt insisting that her secret ingredient was love. Spoiler alert: it was probably garlic!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Easy Italian Wedding Soup is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavor that will impress everyone
- The beautiful colors of the veggies and meatballs make it visually appealing
- It’s versatile enough for any occasion, whether cozy dinners or festive celebrations
- Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens without anyone noticing!
Ingredients for Easy Italian Wedding Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for tender meatballs that won’t leave you feeling too heavy.
Italian Sausage: Choose mild or spicy sausage based on your preference for added flavor and zest.
Fresh Spinach or Kale: These greens provide vibrant color and essential nutrients to the soup.
Carrots: Dice them finely for a touch of sweetness and beautiful color contrast in your bowl.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over the saltiness of your finished dish.
Pasta (like Acini di Pepe): Small pasta shapes soak up the broth perfectly and add texture to every bite.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese adds a nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste experience.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Easy Italian Wedding Soup
**Preparing the Meatballs**
Start by mixing ground beef and Italian sausage in a large bowl. Add breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and parsley until well combined. Form small meatballs with your hands; they should be about one inch in diameter.
**Sautéing Aromatics**
In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle olive oil before adding chopped onions and diced carrots. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and release their sweet aroma—about five minutes should do it.
**Simmering the Broth**
Pour in chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Once boiling, carefully drop in your meatballs one by one—try not to splash yourself unless you’re feeling adventurous! Let them simmer for about ten minutes until they’re cooked through.
**Adding Greens and Pasta**
Stir in fresh spinach or kale until wilted; this usually takes just a couple of minutes. Then toss in your chosen pasta; cook according to package instructions until al dente—about eight minutes should be perfect.
**Finishing Touches**
Once everything is cooked through, stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Taste your masterpiece; adjust seasoning if necessary because nobody likes bland soup! Serve hot with more cheese on top for good measure.
And there you have it—your very own pot of Easy Italian Wedding Soup! Perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying while binge-watching your favorite show (because yes, soup counts as comfort food). Now grab a spoon and dig in!
You Must Know
- This Easy Italian Wedding Soup offers warmth and comfort with every spoonful
- Its delightful blend of flavors makes it perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in
- It’s a simple dish that never fails to impress, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the meatballs first for that irresistible golden crust. While they sizzle, chop your veggies and cook the pasta separately. Combine everything in a pot with broth, letting flavors mingle beautifully as it simmers.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the spinach for kale or add some diced tomatoes for extra color and flavor. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the soup with a zesty kick. Get creative with herbs too!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth to restore its deliciousness and warmth without losing flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh herbs for maximum flavor; dried herbs just can’t compete
- Cook pasta al dente separately to avoid mushiness when reheating
- For added depth, let the soup sit overnight before serving—flavors meld beautifully!
It was a chilly evening when I first made this Easy Italian Wedding Soup for friends who were visiting. Their delighted expressions as they took their first bites warmed my heart almost as much as the soup itself!
FAQs :
What ingredients are needed for Easy Italian Wedding Soup?
To make Easy Italian Wedding Soup, you will need a few essential ingredients. Start with ground meat, such as beef or turkey, combined with breadcrumbs and seasonings to form meatballs. Fresh vegetables like spinach, carrots, and celery add flavor and nutrition. You’ll also need chicken broth for the base, along with small pasta, typically acini di pepe or orzo. Finally, top it off with grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness. These ingredients come together to create a comforting and hearty soup that is perfect for any occasion.
How long does it take to prepare Easy Italian Wedding Soup?
Preparing Easy Italian Wedding Soup typically takes about 30 minutes, while cooking it can take an additional 20 to 30 minutes. The overall time may vary depending on your cooking skills and whether you make the meatballs from scratch. If you use pre-made meatballs, you can save time during preparation. The soup cooks quickly on the stovetop, allowing flavors to meld beautifully. In just over an hour, you’ll have a delicious pot of soup ready to serve.
Can I freeze Easy Italian Wedding Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Easy Italian Wedding Soup! It freezes well and maintains its flavor when stored correctly. To freeze it, let the soup cool completely after cooking. Then transfer it into airtight containers or freezer bags. It’s best to freeze without adding pasta since pasta can become mushy when reheated. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop until warmed through.
What variations can I make to Easy Italian Wedding Soup?
There are many ways to customize Easy Italian Wedding Soup to suit your taste preferences! Consider using different types of meat such as chicken or pork for the meatballs. You can also include more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for added texture and flavor. For a vegetarian version, substitute meatballs with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Experimenting with herbs like basil or oregano can enhance the taste even further!
Conclusion for Easy Italian Wedding Soup :
In conclusion, Easy Italian Wedding Soup is a delightful dish that combines savory flavors with wholesome ingredients. This recipe allows you to enjoy a comforting bowl of soup in less than an hour. With simple steps to prepare homemade meatballs and fresh vegetables simmered in rich chicken broth, this meal is both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or at a family gathering, this soup is sure to impress everyone at your table! Enjoy making this classic dish today!
Easy Italian Wedding Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6 people 1x
Description
Easy Italian Wedding Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings warmth to any chilly evening. This delightful recipe features tender meatballs, vibrant greens, and al dente pasta swimming in a savory chicken broth, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home. With its rich aromas and heartwarming flavors, this soup is sure to be a favorite that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1/2 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 4 cups fresh spinach or kale
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup small pasta (like acini di pepe)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and parsley. Form into small meatballs about one inch in diameter.
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onions and diced carrots until the onions are translucent.
- Add chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil. Carefully drop in the meatballs and simmer for about 10 minutes until cooked through.
- Stir in spinach or kale until wilted, then add pasta and cook according to package instructions (about 8 minutes).
- Finish by stirring in grated Parmesan cheese and adjusting seasoning as needed. Serve hot with extra cheese on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 350g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
