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Dorothy Thomas

Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

A comforting and flavorful Italian classic, this soup features tender meatballs, fresh greens, and tiny pasta in a savory broth. Perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions!
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course, Soup
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • ½ lb (225g) ground beef
  • ½ lb (225g) ground pork (or substitute with more beef)
  • ¼ cup (25g) breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 small onion, finely minced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
For the Soup:
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 8 cups (2L) chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup (100g) small pasta (like acini di pepe, orzo, or ditalini)
  • 2 cups (60g) fresh spinach or escarole, chopped
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Extra Parmesan for serving

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet (optional for baking meatballs)
  • wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. In a bowl, combine beef, pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, onion, garlic, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently (don’t overwork).
  2. Roll into ½-inch meatballs (about 20–25). Optional: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or brown in the soup pot.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
  4. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Add meatballs and pasta. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes until pasta is tender.
  5. Stir in spinach/escarole and cook 2–3 minutes until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Ladle into bowls and top with extra Parmesan.

Notes

  • Make-Ahead: Meatballs can be prepared 1 day ahead.
  • Substitutions: Use turkey for lighter meatballs or gluten-free pasta if needed.
  • Storage: Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze (without pasta) for 1 month.