Italian Wedding Soup

Italian Wedding Soup is a comforting classic made with tender meatballs, leafy greens, tiny pasta, and a flavorful broth. Despite the name, it refers to the “marriage” of flavors — not weddings. Perfect for winter meals and viral soup content.

Ingredients (Serves 6)

For the Meatballs

• 1 lb ground chicken, turkey, or beef

• ½ cup breadcrumbs

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 large egg

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp Italian seasoning

For the Soup

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 2 carrots, sliced

• 2 celery stalks, sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 8 cups chicken broth

• ¾ cup small pasta (acini di pepe, orzo, or ditalini)

• 4 cups fresh spinach or escarole, chopped

• Salt & black pepper to taste

• Optional: grated Parmesan for serving

Instructions

1. Make the Meatballs
   In a bowl, mix all meatball ingredients until just combined.
   Roll into small bite-size meatballs (about 1 inch).

2. Brown the Meatballs (Optional but Flavorful)
   Heat a pan with a little olive oil and lightly brown meatballs on all sides. Set aside.

3. Build the Soup Base
   In a large pot, heat olive oil.
   Sauté onion, carrots, and celery for 5–7 minutes until soft.
   Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.

4. Simmer
   Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
   Add meatballs and pasta. Simmer 10 minutes until pasta is tender and meatballs are cooked.

5. Add Greens
   Stir in spinach or escarole and cook 2–3 minutes until wilted.

6. Season & Serve
   Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
   Serve hot with Parmesan on top.

Tips & Variations

• Use chicken meatballs for a lighter version

• Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness

• For low-carb, skip pasta or replace with cauliflower rice

Q & A

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, but cook pasta separately and add when reheating to avoid sogginess.

Q: Can I freeze Italian Wedding Soup?
A: Yes — freeze without pasta, then add fresh pasta when reheating.

Q: Is this soup healthy?
A: Yes! It’s high in protein, rich in vegetables, and very balanced.