Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

This Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe is a heartwarming dish that brings comfort to your table. Packed with savory meatballs, tender greens, and tiny pasta in a rich broth, it’s perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. The combination of flavors and textures makes this soup a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: This recipe can be made in under 70 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner.
• Flavorful Comfort: The blend of beef and fresh herbs creates a deliciously rich flavor profile that warms the soul.
• Nutrient-Packed: With greens and vegetables, this soup is not only tasty but also nutritious, providing essential vitamins.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the greens and pasta types based on what you have on hand.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This soup freezes well, allowing you to prepare meals in advance for those busy days.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into your cooking adventure, gather all necessary tools to streamline your process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Soup pot
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Essential for combining meatball ingredients without spilling.
• Soup pot: A must-have for simmering the soup evenly and accommodating large batches.
• Meat thermometer: Helps ensure your meatballs are cooked to the right temperature for safety.

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Ingredients

This classic comfort dish is packed with flavorful meatballs made with ground beef, tender greens, and tiny pasta in a rich, savory broth. Perfect for chilly nights or a cozy family meal!

For the Meatballs

• 8 oz. beef, ground
• 8 oz. beef, ground
• 2 slices fresh white bread, crust trimmed, torn into pieces
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tsp.)
• 1/2 medium white onion, grated or finely chopped
• 1/3 cup fresh parsley, minced
• 1/2 cup Pecorino Romano or Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, freshly grated
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1 large egg
• 2 Tbsp. Worcestershire (or sub milk)

For the Soup Base

• 2 Tbsp. olive oil
• 1/2 medium white onion, chopped
• 3 large carrots, peeled and finely chopped
• 4 stalks celery, diced
• salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cloves garlic, minced again for flavor balance
• 2 Tbsp. sage, fresh, chopped

For Cooking

• 10-12 cups chicken broth (homemade preferred but store bought is OK too)
• 2 cups cooked small pasta, such as acini di pepe or ditalini (or 1 cup uncooked)
• 8 cups greens, such as baby spinach, endive, kale, or escarole

Optional:
– Parmigiano Reggiano for garnish
– Good quality olive oil

How to Make Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Meatball Mixture

In a large bowl, combine the torn bread with garlic, onion, parsley, cheese, salt, egg, and Worcestershire. Once mixed well:
1. Add in both types of ground beef.
2. Gently combine using clean hands or a spoon until everything is thoroughly mixed.

Step 2: Roll into Balls (and Brown)

Roll the mixture into small meatballs about 3/4-inch in size. Use your hands or a small melon baller:
1. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Optionally brown them in batches in a large pot with olive oil for about 2 minutes each side until they are about three-quarters cooked.
3. Remove from the pot and set aside while repeating with remaining meatballs.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

Add olive oil to a large soup pot along with:
– Chopped onions,
– Celery,
– Carrots,
– Salt & pepper.

Sauté over low heat for about 15 minutes while stirring occasionally:
1. Afterward add garlic and sage; stir for roughly one minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Broth

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil:
– Pro tip: Add the rind of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese at this stage for extra depth of flavor.

Step 5: Add Meatballs

Once broth is boiling:
1. Carefully add in the meatballs; they will float when done.
2. Check internal temperature using a meat thermometer (beef should reach at least 145°F).
3. If using uncooked pasta in your soup base add about three-quarters of a cup now.

Step 6: Add Greens, Garnish, and Serve

Stir in your chosen greens:
– Taste the soup and adjust seasonings if necessary (add more salt or pepper as needed).
To serve:
1. Spoon cooked pasta into bowls,
2. Ladle over the hot soup,
3. Finish with grated Parmigiano Reggiano or Pecorino Romano along with a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Easy Italian Wedding Soup!

How to Serve Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

Serving Easy Italian Wedding Soup is not just about the soup itself; it’s also about complementing it with the right sides and garnishes. Here are some delicious ideas to enhance your meal.

Garnish Ideas

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top for a burst of flavor.
• Cheese: Add freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano or Pecorino Romano for a rich, savory finish.
• Olive Oil Drizzle: A light drizzle of good quality olive oil can elevate the soup’s taste.

Accompanying Breads

• Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery garlic bread adds a delightful crunch.

Salad Pairings

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the hearty soup.
• Caesar Salad: This classic pairing complements the flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

To make your Easy Italian Wedding Soup even better, consider these tips. They will help you achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and vegetables to enhance taste and aroma.
• Flavorful Broth: Homemade chicken broth provides depth; if using store-bought, choose low-sodium varieties.
• Don’t Overcook Meatballs: Brown meatballs lightly before adding them to the soup to keep them tender.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; every ingredient can affect the final flavor profile.
• Add Rind for Extra Flavor: Adding a rind from Parmigiano Reggiano during cooking enhances the broth’s richness.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

Pairing your Easy Italian Wedding Soup with delicious side dishes can create a wonderful dining experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy and flavorful, perfect for dipping in the soup.
2. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil provide a refreshing contrast.
3. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and herbs makes a tasty starter.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil bring out their natural sweetness.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful peppers filled with grains or vegetables add heartiness to the meal.
6. Zucchini Fritters: Crispy fritters offer a delightful texture that pairs well with the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Skipping Meatball Browning: Not browning the meatballs before adding them to the soup can lead to a lack of flavor. Take time to brown them in a pot for extra depth.
• Using Old Ingredients: Fresh ingredients matter. Using old or stale bread or wilted greens can compromise taste. Always check your ingredients for freshness before use.
• Overcooking the Greens: Adding greens too early can make them mushy and unappealing. Stir them in just a few minutes before serving to keep their vibrant color and texture.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasonings can result in bland soup. Always sample your broth and add salt or pepper as needed before serving.
• Rushing the Cooking Process: Quick cooking may save time, but it diminishes flavors. Allow time for the vegetables to sweat and the broth to develop richness by simmering adequately.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

• Allow soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; store up to 3 months.

Reheating Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual servings on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through (about 10 minutes).

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this delicious dish:

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative that will still provide a flavorful meatball in your Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe.

What type of greens work best?

Baby spinach, kale, endive, or escarole are all excellent choices that add flavor and nutrition to your soup.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta options and ensure your Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free if used.

Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! The flavors deepen when allowed to sit, so preparing it a day in advance is recommended.

What should I serve with Italian Wedding Soup?

This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe is both comforting and versatile. It’s perfect for chilly nights or family gatherings, allowing customization based on your preferences. Whether you want more greens or different pasta shapes, feel free to adjust this recipe to suit your taste!