Italian Wedding Soup: An Incredible Recipe!

Alright, flavor adventurers, gather ’round! I’m about to let you in on a secret weapon that’ll have everyone begging for more. We’re talking about a soup so comforting, so packed with flavor, it’s practically a hug in a bowl. Get ready to fall head-over-heels for my version of Italian Wedding Soup!

I’ve been obsessed with Italian Wedding Soup ever since I first tasted it at a tiny trattoria in Little Italy. The broth was so rich, the meatballs were bursting with savory goodness, and the greens were perfectly tender. It was an unforgettable experience, a flavor symphony that sparked a culinary obsession in me.

I knew right then I had to recreate that magic in my own kitchen. And trust me, it took some serious trial and error to get it just right, but I finally nailed it. Now, I’m sharing my secrets, my tweaks, and all the flavor power-ups so you can make an Italian Wedding Soup that’s even better than the one I had that first time!

This isn’t your grandma’s bland soup, friends. This is Italian Wedding Soup, Cuba Queen style. It’s bold, it’s flavorful, and it’s guaranteed to be a hit with everyone who tries it. Get ready to transform your kitchen into a culinary playground, because this recipe is about to blow your mind!

INGREDIENTS You Need for This:

This Italian Wedding Soup ingredient list is SHORT but mighty! Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a flavor explosion.

Ingredients for Italian Wedding Soup including ground pork, parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, chicken broth, acini di pepe pasta, spinach, lemon, olive oil, onion, carrots, and celery

  • 1 pound ground pork: Look for pork with a good amount of fat – it adds so much flavor!
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Splurge on the good stuff for this one, it makes a world of difference.
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: I prefer using Panko for a lighter texture.
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten: Helps bind the meatballs together.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is non-negotiable for maximum flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds that classic Italian touch.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors perfectly.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a little kick.
  • 8 cups chicken broth: Use a high-quality broth for the best flavor base.
  • 1 cup acini di pepe pasta: These tiny pasta pearls are perfect for Italian Wedding Soup.
  • 5 ounces baby spinach: You can also use escarole or kale if you prefer.
  • 1 lemon, juiced: Adds a bright, fresh finish.
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables.
  • 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds depth of flavor to the broth.
  • 2 carrots, chopped: Adds sweetness and texture.
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped: Adds a savory note.

The secret to epic Italian Wedding Soup is using really high-quality ingredients. You’ll find the best Parmesan at your local cheese shop. It’s worth the extra trip!

Here’s the Italian Wedding Soup game-changer that will blow your mind: a squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end. It brightens up the whole soup and adds a zing that’s totally addictive. Trust me on this one!

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

Alright, flavor adventurers, it’s time to get cooking! Don’t stress – your Italian Wedding Soup is going to be incredible. I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

  1. Make the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground pork, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or the meatballs will be tough.
  2. Shape the Meatballs: Roll the mixture into tiny meatballs, about 1/2 inch in diameter. This is where patience comes in, but trust me, the small size is key for that authentic Italian Wedding Soup experience.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This is where your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
  4. Add the Broth and Meatballs: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Gently add the meatballs to the pot. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
  5. Cook the Pasta: Add the acini di pepe pasta to the pot and cook according to package directions. Pro tip for Italian Wedding Soup perfection: don’t overcook the pasta! You want it to be al dente.
  6. Add the Spinach: Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. This is where your Italian Wedding Soup transforms into pure magic!
  7. Finish with Lemon Juice: Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. In my kitchen, this Italian Wedding Soup takes exactly 45 minutes from start to finish.
  8. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the Italian Wedding Soup into bowls and serve immediately. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired. While your Italian Wedding Soup is working its magic, grab your camera – this is Instagram gold!

Here’s where most people mess up their Italian Wedding Soup – but not you! The key is to use high-quality ingredients and not overcook the meatballs. Keep them small and simmer them gently for the best results.

This Italian Wedding Soup should look rich and flavorful, smell amazing, and taste like a warm hug in a bowl. If you followed these steps, you’re golden!

Another flavor bomb you might love is my Italian Penicillin Soup!

PRESENTATION:

Presentation is everything, flavor adventurers! This Italian Wedding Soup deserves to be served with style.

Ladle the soup into beautiful bowls, making sure each serving has plenty of meatballs, pasta, and spinach. Garnish with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness. A sprig of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.

People absolutely lose their minds when I serve this Italian Wedding Soup at dinner parties! It’s the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. I sometimes like to pair it with crusty bread for dipping.

This Italian Wedding Soup absolutely slays at dinner parties!

Italian Wedding Soup is also perfect for a cozy night in. It’s easy to make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Leftovers are even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together. You can also transform any leftovers into an amazing pasta sauce by adding some cooked pasta and a little cream.

For an Instagram-worthy plating technique, try swirling a little pesto into the soup just before serving. The vibrant green color looks beautiful against the rich broth. This Italian Wedding Soup is amazing any time of year, but especially comforting in winter. I have tested seasonal variations, but I prefer the classic!

FAQs:

Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common Italian Wedding Soup cooking challenges I’ve encountered.

Q: Can I make this Italian Wedding Soup spicier?

A: Absolutely! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the meatball mixture or a dash of hot sauce to the soup. During my testing, I found that a little heat really enhances the other flavors.

Q: What if I don’t have acini di pepe pasta for my Italian Wedding Soup?

A: No problem! You can substitute other small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: How do I know when my Italian Wedding Soup is perfectly done?

A: The meatballs should be cooked through, the pasta should be al dente, and the spinach should be wilted. The broth should be rich and flavorful, and the overall soup should be piping hot. Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust seasonings as needed! From community feedback, I know that people sometimes struggle with overcooked meatballs.

Q: Can I make Italian Wedding Soup ahead of time?

A: Yes! This soup is even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I freeze Italian Wedding Soup?

A: Yes, but the pasta may become a bit soft when thawed. If you’re planning to freeze the soup, I recommend cooking the pasta separately and adding it when you reheat the soup.

Q: What kind of greens can I use in Italian Wedding Soup?

A: Baby spinach is the most common choice, but you can also use escarole, kale, or Swiss chard. Just be sure to chop the greens into small pieces before adding them to the soup. You could also try some less common greens but I have not personally tested this so I cannot guarantee the outcome.

Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of pork for the meatballs?

A: Yes, you can. However, keep in mind that ground turkey and chicken tend to be drier than pork, so you may need to add a little extra moisture to the meatball mixture.

This Italian Wedding Soup customization options mean you can adjust to your taste.

CONCLUSION:

This Italian Wedding Soup isn’t just a recipe; it’s a flavor adventure that embodies everything Cuba Queen stands for: bold flavors, simple ingredients, and unforgettable meals. It is the perfect easy italian soup recipe.

My Italian Wedding Soup Power Tips:

  • Use high-quality broth: This is the foundation of your soup, so don’t skimp on the broth.
  • Don’t overmix the meatballs: Overmixing will result in tough meatballs.
  • Add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end: This brightens up the whole soup and adds a zing that’s totally addictive.

I’ve created a few variations of Italian Wedding Soup that I’m obsessed with: a spicy version with red pepper flakes, a vegetarian version with white beans, and a creamy version with a swirl of mascarpone cheese. But the classic version always gets the biggest reactions! I’m confident you can make your own version your signature dish!

You’ll find this Italian Wedding Soup reminds me of another flavor explosion: my Italian Sausage and Potato Soup.

I have complete confidence in your cooking success! Get in the kitchen, have some fun, and create some amazing Italian Wedding Soup memories.

Bowl of homemade Italian Wedding Soup with meatballs, pasta, and spinach

Now go out there and make this Italian Wedding Soup your own signature dish! I know you can do it! And don’t forget to share your results with me – I can’t wait to see what you create!

Let me know if you try my Italian Wedding Soup and don’t forget to explore more recipes like this Italian wedding soup! My first time making soup from scratch and I’m … .

I hope you love this traditional Italian Wedding Soup.

 

Print

Italian Wedding Soup

Bowl of Homemade Italian Wedding Soup

This comforting Italian Wedding Soup features tender mini meatballs, hearty greens, and acini de pepe pasta in a flavorful broth. It’s a classic soup that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight meal.

  • Author: Quinn
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Soup
  • Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground chicken or pork
  • 1/2 cup bread crumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 8 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup acini de pepe pasta
  • 5 ounces baby spinach, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
  2. Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Add chicken broth, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pot and bring to a boil.
  5. Gently drop the meatballs into the boiling broth. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through.
  6. Stir in the acini de pepe pasta and cook according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes.
  7. Add the spinach and parsley to the soup and cook until the spinach is wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

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