Italian Wedding Soup with Parmesan Meatballs
Let me tell you, Italian Wedding Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl—especially when those tender, cheesy Parmesan meatballs float alongside bright greens and tiny pasta. I first discovered this gem at a cozy Sunday family dinner, where the aroma of garlic and fresh herbs filled the whole house. The soup somehow turns simple ingredients into a celebration of flavor and comfort that’s both fancy and familiar. Today, I’ll share how to make this classic soup with meatballs that are juicy, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned. Plus, I’ve packed the recipe with little tips to keep your kitchen smelling amazing and your bowl steaming hot—ready to enjoy whenever you want a little piece of Italy at home.
Quick Facts
- Yield: Serves 6
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients
For the Main Dish:
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/3 cup Italian-style bread crumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 8 cups chicken broth (preferably low sodium)
- 1 cup small pasta (acini di pepe or orzo work great)
- 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 medium carrot, diced finely
- 1 celery stalk, diced finely
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
How I Make It
Step 1:
Start by making the Parmesan meatballs. In a big bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, 1/2 cup Parmesan, bread crumbs, egg, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Season generously with salt and pepper. Mix everything gently with your hands—don’t overwork or your meatballs will be tough.
Step 2:
Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a plate or baking sheet and set aside while you prep the broth.
Step 3:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know they’re ready when the kitchen smells like a little veggie garden and the onion turns translucent.
Step 4:
Add the chicken broth to the pot and bring to a gentle simmer. Carefully add the meatballs one by one into the broth. Let the soup simmer for 20 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and tender.
Step 5:
About 5 minutes before serving, stir in the chopped spinach and your pasta of choice. Cook until the pasta is al dente (check package instructions, usually 5-7 minutes). The soup will brighten up beautifully at this stage, with vibrant green and golden noodles.
Step 6:
Give the soup a final taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls, sprinkle with extra Parmesan, and maybe a pinch of fresh parsley for garnish. Serve hot, and get ready for that first spoonful full of savory, cheesy goodness.
Variations & Tips
- Swap out ground pork for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner meatball.
- If you want a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread crumbs or almond flour.
- Try kale instead of spinach for a sturdier green that holds up longer in the soup.
- Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving brightens the flavors wonderfully.
- Make the meatballs a day ahead and refrigerate; they’ll hold their shape better when added to the broth.
- Chicken broth can be substituted with vegetable broth for a lighter base.
How I Like to Serve It
This soup pairs perfectly with a crusty loaf of Italian bread or garlic breadsticks for soaking up every last drop. I like serving it on chilly weeknights when you want something comforting but not heavy. It’s also a winner for casual dinner parties—everyone loves picking out those little meatballs and savoring the tender greens.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to keep the meatballs tender.
- If you have leftover cooked pasta, add it fresh to warmed soup before serving to avoid mushiness.
Closing: Italian Wedding Soup with Parmesan Meatballs has that perfect balance of simple ingredients and rich flavor, making it a go-to recipe whenever you need a hearty, comforting meal that feels just like home.