Authentic Italian Wedding Soup Recipe – Homemade, Hearty & Delicious

When you think of Italian comfort food, a few dishes might instantly come to mind—lasagna, spaghetti carbonara, chicken parmigiana. But there’s one that stands out with its warmth, heartiness, and old-world charm: Italian Wedding Soup. It’s more than just a bowl of broth and meatballs—it’s a warm hug on a chilly evening, a family tradition, and a culinary legacy handed down through generations.

In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into everything you need to know about Italian Wedding Soup—from its rich history to the perfect way to make it at home. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this guide will help you master the dish with ease. Get ready to impress your family and guests with an Italian Wedding Soup recipe that tastes like it came straight from Nonna’s kitchen.

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What Is Italian Wedding Soup?

Despite what the name suggests, Italian Wedding Soup isn’t traditionally served at weddings. The name actually comes from the Italian phrase “minestra maritata”, which means “married soup.” But it’s not referring to people—it’s talking about the harmonious “marriage” of flavors between the meat and the vegetables.

At its core, Italian Wedding Soup is a hearty, savory broth filled with mini meatballs, tender vegetables, pasta, and leafy greens. It’s one of those meals that looks simple but bursts with flavor in every spoonful. This soup has stood the test of time and has become a beloved staple in Italian-American households.

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The Secret to the Best Italian Wedding Soup

Creating the best Italian Wedding Soup is all about building layers of flavor. The richness of the broth, the seasoning of the meatballs, the sautéed vegetables, and the final touch of fresh spinach all play essential roles.

Here’s what makes a standout Italian Wedding Soup:

• Flavor-packed meatballs: A mix of ground beef and Italian sausage is key.
• Aromatic vegetables: Onion, celery, carrots, and garlic form the flavor base.
• Rich chicken broth: Quality broth enhances the depth of the soup.
• Tiny pasta: Acini de pepe or orzo is ideal.
• Leafy greens: Spinach adds freshness and nutrition.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, umami kick to finish.

If you’re ready to make a pot of Italian Wedding Soup that rivals your favorite Italian restaurant, read on.

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Ingredients for Italian Wedding Soup

For the Meatballs:

• 1/2 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 pound ground beef
• 1/2 pound Italian sausage
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Black pepper to taste

For the Soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 medium onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 cup uncooked acini de pepe or orzo pasta
• 5 ounces fresh baby spinach

This list might seem long, but each ingredient plays a crucial role in building a flavorful Italian Wedding Soup.

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Step-by-Step Directions: How to Make Italian Wedding Soup

Let’s walk through the process step-by-step so you can confidently make the best homemade Italian Wedding Soup right in your kitchen.

1. Prepare the Meatballs

Start by combining the breadcrumbs and milk in a large bowl. Let them sit for a few minutes to absorb the liquid. This trick keeps the meatballs moist and tender.

Next, add in the ground beef, Italian sausage, Parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper. Gently mix everything together. You don’t want to overwork the meat or your meatballs could end up tough.

Roll the mixture into small 1-inch balls—you should end up with about 40-45 meatballs. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. These tiny meatballs are the heart of your Italian Wedding Soup.

2. Sear the Meatballs

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs in batches and sear them until they’re golden brown on the outside—about 5 minutes per batch. Don’t worry about cooking them through; they’ll finish cooking in the soup later.

Once browned, set the meatballs aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

Using the same pot, add the onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 7-8 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

This step creates a deeply aromatic base that elevates the entire soup.

4. Assemble the Soup

Pour in the chicken broth and add the Italian seasoning. Stir everything together.

Gently return the browned meatballs to the pot. Turn the heat to high and bring everything to a boil.

5. Cook the Pasta

Once boiling, add the acini de pepe (or orzo). Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the soup cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. The pasta will soak up the flavors and thicken the broth slightly.

6. Add the Spinach

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach. It will wilt quickly, adding color, texture, and a healthy touch to your Italian Wedding Soup.

Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper, if needed.

7. Serve It Up

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra Parmesan cheese if you’re feeling fancy (and why not?). Serve with crusty bread for the ultimate comfort meal.

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Why You’ll Love Italian Wedding Soup

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this dish. Let’s break it down.

1. It’s a Meal in a Bowl

You’ve got protein, veggies, and carbs all in one hearty serving. It’s nutritious, balanced, and satisfying.

2. It’s Family-Friendly

Even picky eaters love those bite-sized meatballs and gentle broth. It’s one of those rare soups that both kids and adults adore.

3. It’s Great for Leftovers

Italian Wedding Soup stores beautifully in the fridge and even freezes well. Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

4. It’s Easily Customizable

No acini de pepe? Use ditalini, orzo, or even broken spaghetti. Want to sneak in more greens? Try kale or escarole. The base is flexible, making this the perfect go-to soup all year round.

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Nutritional Value of Italian Wedding Soup

Here’s a quick breakdown of what you’re getting per serving (approximately):

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 24g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 3g
• Calcium: 15% DV
• Iron: 18% DV

Loaded with protein, vitamins, and minerals, this isn’t just comfort food—it’s wholesome food.

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Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Italian Wedding Soup

Want to elevate your soup game? Here are some insider tips:

Use Fresh Parmesan Cheese

Pre-shredded cheese just doesn’t melt the same. Grate it fresh for the best flavor and texture.

Brown the Meatballs for Extra Flavor

Searing adds a caramelized edge that brings more depth to the soup.

Don’t Overcrowd the Pot

When searing the meatballs, work in batches to get that golden crust.

Use Low-Sodium Chicken Broth

This gives you more control over the saltiness of your Italian Wedding Soup.

Let It Simmer

The longer it simmers (after pasta is cooked), the richer it gets. Just make sure not to overcook the pasta.

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Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best parts about Italian Wedding Soup is that it’s meal-prep friendly.

To Make Ahead:

• Form the meatballs and refrigerate them up to 24 hours in advance.
• Chop the veggies and store them in an airtight container.

To Store:

• Store leftover soup in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• The flavors get better with time!

To Freeze:

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Reheat gently on the stove. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair your Italian Wedding Soup with:

• Crusty Italian Bread or Garlic Bread
• Simple Caesar Salad
• Antipasto Platter with olives, cheeses, and cured meats
• A glass of Chianti or sparkling water with lemon

It’s a dinner that’s as cozy as it is classy.

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FAQs About Italian Wedding Soup

1. Can I use frozen meatballs instead of making my own?

Yes, but homemade meatballs give the soup much more flavor and authenticity. If you’re short on time, go for good-quality frozen ones.

2. What’s the best pasta for Italian Wedding Soup?

Acini de pepe is traditional, but orzo, ditalini, or even tiny shells work well.

3. Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely. Skip the meatballs and use veggie broth. Try adding white beans or plant-based meatballs for protein.

4. What other greens can I use besides spinach?

Escarole, kale, and Swiss chard are great alternatives. Just chop them finely and simmer until tender.

5. Is Italian Wedding Soup gluten-free?

It can be! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta to make a completely gluten-free version.

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Conclusion: A Bowl of Italian Comfort

There’s just something magical about Italian Wedding Soup. Maybe it’s the cozy aroma wafting through your kitchen. Maybe it’s the way each spoonful offers the perfect mix of savory broth, tender meatballs, and fresh greens. Or maybe it’s the tradition and love that goes into every homemade pot.

This soup isn’t just a recipe—it’s a ritual. Whether you’re making it for your family on a cold winter night or serving it at a holiday meal, it brings people together in the best way. So the next time you’re craving something hearty, nourishing, and soul-satisfying, you know what to do. Grab those ingredients and cook up a pot of Italian Wedding Soup that’s better than any you’ve had before.

Now that you’ve got the recipe and all the insider tips, go ahead—make it, love it, and don’t forget to pass it down. Because the best soups are the ones that become tradition.

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