A Beginner’s Guide to Making Classic Italian Wedding Soup

There is something deeply comforting about a bowl of homemade soup, especially on a chilly evening when you crave warmth and nourishment. Italian Wedding Soup is one of those timeless dishes that feels both hearty and elegant, perfect for a casual dinner or a special gathering. Despite its name, this soup is not traditionally served at weddings. The name actually comes from the Italian phrase minestra maritata, meaning “married soup,” referring to the harmonious combination of meat and greens.

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This recipe is perfect for beginner cooks because it is simple, requires minimal ingredients, and does not demand complex techniques. The meatballs are easy to prepare, and the soup comes together in a single pot with common kitchen staples. It is also highly customizable, allowing you to substitute ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you are cooking for yourself, your family, or guests, this soup is sure to impress without overwhelming you in the kitchen.

Ingredients and Preparation

Meatballs

• ½ lb. ground beef (85% lean)
• ½ lb. ground chicken
• 1 egg, beaten
• ½ cup Italian breadcrumbs
• ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ⅓ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Soup

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 ¼ cups carrots, diced
• 2 celery ribs, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
• ¾ cup acini de pepe pasta, uncooked
• 4-5 cups fresh spinach
• Salt and pepper, to taste

To Garnish

• Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

Ingredient Substitutions and Alternatives

• If you do not have breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers or panko as a substitute.
• Ground turkey can replace ground chicken if preferred.
• Kale or escarole can be used instead of spinach for a different texture.
• Orzo, ditalini, or small shell pasta can work in place of acini de pepe.
• If you want a heartier version, you can add white beans for extra protein and texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

In a large bowl, gently mix the ground beef, ground chicken, beaten egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the meatballs tough. Roll the mixture into small, ¾-inch meatballs and place them on a plate or tray.

Step 2: Brown the Meatballs

Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook them for about two minutes on each side, just until they develop a golden-brown crust. They do not need to be fully cooked at this stage, as they will finish cooking in the soup. Remove the meatballs and set them aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook over medium heat for about six minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften. If needed, add a small splash of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Seasoning

Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for one more minute until fragrant. This step enhances the depth of flavor in the broth.

Step 5: Add the Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Carefully add the browned meatballs back into the pot and let the soup cook for about fifteen minutes. The meatballs will finish cooking and infuse the broth with flavor.

Step 6: Cook the Pasta Separately

While the soup is simmering, cook the pasta in a separate pot according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Cooking the pasta separately prevents it from absorbing too much broth and becoming mushy. If you do not anticipate leftovers, you can cook the pasta directly in the soup.

Step 7: Add the Spinach

Once the meatballs are fully cooked, stir in the fresh spinach and let it wilt for about two minutes. Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the soup into bowls and add a portion of the cooked pasta to each serving. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra richness. Serve immediately while warm.

Beginner Tips and Notes

How to Know When Meatballs Are Cooked

The meatballs should be firm and no longer pink in the center. If you have a kitchen thermometer, check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Preventing Overcooked Vegetables

If the carrots or celery seem to be getting too soft while the soup simmers, lower the heat and let them cook gently. If they become too mushy, consider adding extra diced vegetables towards the end for a bit of texture.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
• Keep the pasta separate from the soup to prevent it from absorbing too much liquid. Add it to individual servings just before eating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add extra broth if needed.

Can You Freeze Italian Wedding Soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well, but it is best to freeze it without the pasta. Let the soup cool completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove. Cook fresh pasta and add it before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Complementary Sides

• Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, toasted bread is perfect for soaking up the broth.
• Garlic Bread: Adds a rich, buttery contrast to the light soup.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with olive oil and lemon dressing complements the dish beautifully.

Pairing with Beverages

• A light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, pairs well with the flavors of the soup.
• For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon adds a refreshing touch.

Engagement Features

Cooking is a journey, and every time you try a new recipe, you build confidence in the kitchen. Italian Wedding Soup is an excellent dish to start with because it teaches fundamental techniques, such as making meatballs, simmering a broth, and balancing flavors.

If you try this recipe, share your experience in the comments. What substitutions did you use? Did you discover any new tips along the way? Cooking is about creativity and learning from each other, so let’s start a conversation.

Whether you are making this soup for a cozy night in or serving it at a family gathering, you will love how simple yet flavorful it is. Give it a try and enjoy the satisfaction of creating a homemade meal from scratch.