Italian Wedding Soup

Save this recipe on:

A bowl of Italian Wedding Soup is like a warm hug on a chilly day—comforting, savory, and bursting with flavors from tender meatballs, leafy greens, and pearly pasta. Despite its name, this soup isn’t served at weddings in Italy but is called “minestra maritata,” meaning “married soup,” referring to the delicious marriage of ingredients.

It’s a one-pot wonder that satisfies every craving. Whether you’re making it for family dinners, meal prep, or a cozy night in, Italian Wedding Soup is a timeless classic with old-world charm and new-world ease. The homemade meatballs and vibrant vegetables simmer in a broth that brings them all together in perfect harmony.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use in Italian Wedding Soup?

Traditionally, tiny pasta varieties like acini di pepe, orzo, or pastina are used to blend seamlessly with the meatballs and vegetables. Acini di pepe is a favorite for its round shape and tender texture that doesn’t overpower the other ingredients.

Ingredients for the Italian Wedding Soup

Ground Meat – A mix of ground beef and pork offers the best flavor and richness for the meatballs.

Breadcrumbs – Helps bind the meatballs and gives them a tender texture.

Parmesan Cheese – Adds savory depth to both the meatballs and the broth.

Egg – Acts as a binder in the meatball mixture.

Garlic & Onion – Essential aromatics for a flavorful base.

Carrots & Celery – Classic soup vegetables that add sweetness and crunch.

Spinach – Wilts beautifully into the broth, offering nutrients and color.

Chicken Broth – Forms the light, flavorful base of the soup.

Acini di Pepe Pasta – The ideal pasta choice for texture and presentation.

Olive Oil – For sautéing vegetables and giving the soup a silky finish.

---

How To Make the Italian Wedding Soup

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

Combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Form into small, bite-sized meatballs and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Meatballs

Heat a bit of olive oil in a large soup pot and brown the meatballs on all sides. They don’t need to be fully cooked—just nicely seared for added flavor. Set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Add chicken broth to the pot and bring to a simmer. Gently add the seared meatballs and let everything cook for about 15 minutes until the meatballs are cooked through.

Step 5: Add the Pasta and Greens

Stir in acini di pepe and simmer for another 8–10 minutes until pasta is tender. Add spinach in the last 2 minutes to wilt.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Taste and adjust salt or pepper as needed. Serve hot with a sprinkle of Parmesan on top.

---

Serving and Storing Italian Wedding Soup

Italian Wedding Soup is best served steaming hot with a crusty slice of bread or a side of garlic knots. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The pasta may soak up the broth over time, so add a splash of extra broth or water when reheating.

Freeze portions before adding the pasta for best results, then cook pasta fresh when reheating for perfect texture.

What to Serve With Italian Wedding Soup?

Garlic Bread

The buttery, crispy goodness pairs perfectly with the light broth.

Caesar Salad

A tangy, crisp salad adds balance and freshness.

Roasted Parmesan Green Beans

A crunchy veggie side with Italian flair.

Caprese Skewers

Mini mozzarella, tomato, and basil bites are fresh and easy.

Crusty Artisan Bread

Rustic and chewy, ideal for soaking up broth.

Bruschetta

Tomato, basil, and garlic on toasted baguette rounds out the meal.

Lemon Churro Cookies

For a sweet finish with a zesty twist.

---

Want More Soup Ideas?

If this Italian Wedding Soup hit the spot, try these other soul-warming favorites:

• Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup for cheesy, veggie-packed comfort.
• Tuscan Bean Soup when you need something hearty and wholesome.
• Italian Sausage Soup for those who love bold, spicy flavor.
• Easy Thai Red Curry Dumpling Soup for a global twist.
• Wendy’s Copycat Chili if you crave something meaty and slow-cooked.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add your own twist to the meatballs? Use kale instead of spinach? I love hearing how others make these recipes their own.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on ChefAlchemy’s Recipes and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

---

Print

Save this recipe on: