18 Homemade Italian Wedding Soup Recipe Experience Flavor Like Never Before!
Published on: Mar 15, 2024
If you're a fan of hearty and comforting soups, then you must try this delicious homemade Italian wedding soup recipe. This classic dish combines savory meatballs, tender vegetables, and flavorful broth for the perfect bowl of comfort on a cold day. Not only is it simple to make, but it's also a crowd-pleaser that will have your family and friends asking for seconds. Let's dive into this traditional Italian recipe and learn how to make it from scratch.
Italian wedding soup is a classic dish that combines the flavors of fresh herbs, tender meatballs, and hearty broth. It's a comfort food that has been enjoyed by families for generations. The name "wedding soup" comes from the Italian phrase "minestra maritata," which means "married soup." The name refers to the perfect marriage of flavors in this dish, making it a favorite for weddings and other special occasions.
The traditional recipe for Italian wedding soup includes tiny meatballs made from a mixture of ground beef, pork, and veal. These meatballs are simmered in a broth made from chicken stock, onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. To add even more flavor, fresh herbs like parsley and thyme are added to the broth. The final touch is the addition of small pasta, such as acini di pepe or orzo, and leafy greens like spinach or escarole. The result is a comforting and flavorful soup that is perfect for any occasion.
Everyone has their own version of Italian wedding soup and each one is considered their "favorite." Some people prefer a heartier soup, while others like a lighter version. Some add more veggies, while others stick to the traditional recipe. No matter what your preferences are, there is no denying that Italian wedding soup is a favorite among many.
If you're looking for a quick and easy version of Italian wedding soup, look no further. This recipe simplifies the process by using pre-made meatballs and store-bought chicken broth. You can also use pre-packaged baby spinach or escarole to save time. This version still packs all the delicious flavors of the traditional soup, but with less prep work.
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Italian Wedding Soup With Meatballs
Main Ingredients: Lean Ground Beef, Ground Pork, Onions, Egg, Parmesan
Meatballs are the star of this dish, and the key to a delicious Italian wedding soup is using high-quality, flavorful meatballs. Some recipes call for a combination of beef, pork, and veal, while others stick to just one type of meat. Whichever you choose, be sure to season your meatballs well with salt, pepper, and herbs for maximum flavor.
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Skinny Italian Wedding Soup
Main Ingredients: Extra Lean Ground Beef, Bread Crumbs, Onion, Egg
If you're watching your calorie intake, you can still enjoy a bowl of Italian wedding soup with this "skinny" version. This recipe uses lean ground turkey instead of beef, pork, or veal for the meatballs. It also substitutes low-sodium chicken broth and adds extra veggies like zucchini and bell peppers for a healthier twist on the classic soup.
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Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup
Main Ingredients: Meatballs, Ground Chicken, Whole Wheat Breadcrumbs
The slow cooker is a great tool for making Italian wedding soup, as it allows the flavors to meld together and the meatballs to become tender and juicy. Simply add all the ingredients to your slow cooker and let it simmer for a few hours, resulting in a delicious and comforting soup that is perfect for a cold day.
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Italian Wedding Soup with Tortellini
Main Ingredients: Ground Turkey, Large Egg, Breadcrumbs, Grated Parmesan
For a twist on the classic recipe, try using tortellini instead of traditional pasta. The small, stuffed pasta adds a new level of flavor and heartiness to the soup. You can use cheese-filled tortellini for a vegetarian option or opt for beef or chicken for a meatier dish.
Whether you're making it for a special occasion or just craving a comforting bowl of soup, Italian wedding soup is a dish that never disappoints. With its flavorful broth, tender meatballs, and hearty pasta, it's a classic dish that will always be a favorite.
The Crock-Pot is a busy cook's best friend, and it's also a great tool for making Italian wedding soup. Simply add all the ingredients to your slow cooker and let it do the work for you. You'll come home to a delicious and comforting soup that is perfect for a weeknight meal.
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Italian Wedding Soup with Chicken Meatballs
Main Ingredients: Ground Chicken, Breadcrumbs, Medium Eggs, Grated
If you're looking for a lighter version of Italian wedding soup, try using chicken meatballs instead of beef or pork. The chicken adds a lighter flavor to the soup, making it perfect for those looking for a healthier option. You can also use ground chicken or turkey to make your own chicken meatballs at home.
Ingredients You'll Need
For the meatballs:
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup milk
1 egg
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the soup:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup diced onion
1 cup diced carrots
1 cup diced celery
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
8 cups chicken broth
1 cup orzo pasta
4 cups baby spinach
Directions
1. Make the meatballs:
In a large bowl, combine all the meatball ingredients and mix until well combined.
Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter.
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat and add the meatballs. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs and set aside.
2. Make the soup:
In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
Add the oregano, basil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
Add the orzo pasta and cook for 8 minutes, until al dente.
Stir in the meatballs and spinach and cook for 2 minutes, until the spinach is wilted.
Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
3. Serve and enjoy!
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve with crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
With this homemade Italian wedding soup recipe, you'll have a delicious and comforting dish that is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Plus, making it from scratch allows you to control the ingredients and make it healthier than the canned version. Give it a try and see for yourself!
