Italian Wedding Soup Classic

Name: Italian Wedding Soup Classic
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 8 cups chicken broth; 1 cup acini di pepe pasta; 5 cups fresh spinach; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan for serving; 1 pound ground beef; 1/2 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: World Cuisine Recipes

I absolutely adore making Italian Wedding Soup Classic, especially during chilly days when comfort is a must. The warm, savory broth infused with fresh herbs and the delightful combination of mini meatballs and leafy greens graces our table with joy. Each bowl is like a warm hug, bringing together rich flavors that tell a story of tradition and family. The process is relatively simple yet rewarding, making this soup a staple in my home for family gatherings and cozy nights in.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-01-20T14:54:29.121Z

When I first tasted Italian Wedding Soup at a family gathering, I was immediately captivated by its blend of flavors. I experimented with various spices and greens, ultimately crafting a recipe that satisfied my cravings for a hearty meal. Adding freshly grated Parmesan elevates the experience, and it pairs perfectly with crusty bread for dipping!

One tip I’ve learned is to let the soup simmer longer than usual to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Using homemade meatballs not only enhances the taste but also infuses the broth with a richer essence. I can't wait for you to try this delicious recipe with your loved ones!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A soothing blend of flavors that warms the soul
Homemade meatballs add an unbeatable richness
Perfect for gatherings or a cozy meal at home

      

Unlocking Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh herbs in your Italian Wedding Soup enhances its flavor profile significantly. I recommend using freshly chopped parsley instead of dried; the aroma and taste are incomparable. Not only does it brighten the soup, but it also complements the rich flavors of the meatballs and broth. Fresh herbs release essential oils when added, elevating the overall experience and turning an ordinary soup into an extraordinary bowl of comfort.

Don’t underestimate the role of high-quality chicken broth—homemade or store-bought. The broth serves as the flavor base, so choose one that’s low-sodium to better control the saltiness of your dish. If you have time, roasting chicken bones with vegetables and herbs before simmering them for hours can create a profoundly rich broth that underpins the entire soup's savory profile, making it absolutely delightful.

Tips for Perfect Meatballs

When making the meatballs, be cautious not to overmix the ingredients; this can lead to tough, rubbery bites. Gently combine the mixture until just blended to ensure a tender texture. I find it helpful to use an ice cream scoop for even-sized meatballs, which ensures that they cook uniformly and maintain a pleasant consistency.

If you want to lighten the meatballs or cater to dietary restrictions, consider swapping half of the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. This adjustment can provide a similar texture and flavor while reducing the fat content. Just be mindful to add a touch of olive oil or a bit of grated cheese to keep them moist.

Ingredients

For the Soup

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 cups chicken broth
1 cup acini di pepe pasta
5 cups fresh spinach
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan for serving

For the Meatballs

1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
1 large egg
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Make the Meatballs

In a bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, egg, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined. Shape into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.

Cook the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, celery, and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add the meatballs and simmer for 15 minutes until they are cooked through.

Add Pasta and Spinach

Stir in the acini di pepe pasta and cook for an additional 10 minutes. Finally, add the spinach and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan. Enjoy your Italian Wedding Soup classic warm!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider making your own chicken broth or using homemade meatballs for a richer taste. This soup freezes well
just make the meatballs and soup base, then combine fresh before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Italian Wedding Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the meatballs and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze them raw for up to three months. Just remember to portion them out for easy cooking later on, and they can go straight from the freezer to the pot without thawing.

For the soup itself, it’s best to cook it fresh since the pasta can become mushy when stored. However, if you have leftovers, consider removing the pasta before refrigerating the broth and meatballs. You can always cook fresh pasta when you're ready to enjoy the soup again, which will retain its al dente texture and integrity.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This soup is incredibly versatile and can be served with crusty bread or garlic breadsticks for a heartier meal. Pairing it with a fresh green salad on the side adds a refreshing contrast to the savory soup. For a touch of elegance, drizzling a bit of high-quality olive oil on top before serving enhances the flavors while giving the soup a beautiful glossy finish.

For those looking to switch things up, consider adding other greens like kale or Swiss chard, which can stand up to the heat better than spinach. They will add a different texture and nutrient profile as well. You can also try including beans for added protein and fiber or swapping out the acini di pepe pasta for another short pasta type, like orzo or ditalini.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just add it during the last few minutes of cooking.

→ What can I substitute for acini di pepe pasta?

You can substitute with small pasta shapes such as orzo or ditalini.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Let the soup cool to room temperature, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and reheat it before serving for best flavor.