Name: Easy Italian Wedding Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken); 1/2 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 large egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 8 cups chicken broth or stock; 1 cup acini di pepe or orzo pasta; 4 cups fresh spinach or escarole; Optional: fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan for garnish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This hearty soup is incredibly satisfying yet surprisingly light, making it suitable for any season. The combination of juicy homemade (or store-bought) meatballs, savory broth, leafy greens, and pasta makes each bite rich in flavor and texture. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s easy to prepare and full of wholesome ingredients the whole family will enjoy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef
Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
Grated Parmesan cheese
Egg
Garlic, minced
Salt and pepper
Olive oil
Onion, finely chopped
Carrots, diced
Celery, diced
Chicken broth or stock
Acini di pepe or orzo pasta
Fresh spinach or escarole
Optional: fresh parsley and more Parmesan for garnish

Directions

In a bowl, mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs.
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Gently drop in the meatballs and cook for 10–12 minutes, or until fully cooked.
Stir in the pasta and cook according to package instructions (typically 6–8 minutes), stirring occasionally.
Add spinach or escarole and simmer for another 2–3 minutes until wilted.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6–8 people.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Use pre-made meatballs: Save time with frozen or store-bought meatballs.
Try turkey or chicken: Substitute the beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Add beans: Stir in white beans for extra protein and fiber.
Use kale: Swap spinach for kale or other sturdy greens.
Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened.
The soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Freeze without the pasta for best texture, and add fresh pasta when reheating.

FAQs

Why is it called Italian Wedding Soup?

The name comes from the Italian phrase “minestra maritata,” referring to the harmony or “marriage” of meat and greens in the soup.

Can I use frozen spinach?

Yes, just thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding to the soup.

What’s the best pasta to use?

Acini di pepe is traditional, but orzo, ditalini, or any small pasta will work well.

Do I have to brown the meatballs first?

Not in this recipe. They cook gently in the broth, which keeps them tender and flavorful.

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, it tastes even better the next day. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

How can I prevent the pasta from soaking up all the broth?

Cook the pasta separately and add it to each bowl before serving to keep it from becoming too soft.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook the vegetables and broth first, then add raw meatballs and cook on low for 6–7 hours. Stir in pasta and greens near the end.

Is this soup healthy?

It can be! Made with lean meat, vegetables, and greens, it’s a nutritious, protein-rich meal.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, omit the meatballs and add extra vegetables or white beans for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken.

What can I serve with Italian Wedding Soup?

Crusty bread, garlic knots, or a simple green salad pair beautifully with this soup.

Conclusion

Easy Italian Wedding Soup is a warm, flavorful, and satisfying dish that comes together in under an hour. Whether you’re serving it on a chilly evening or as part of a comforting family dinner, its tender meatballs, nourishing greens, and savory broth make it a timeless favorite. With simple ingredients and big flavor, this soup is sure to become a regular in your kitchen