Italian Wedding Soup Recipe – A Hearty Homemade Classic

When it comes to comfort food that hits every note—savory, satisfying, and steeped in tradition—Italian Wedding Soup stands tall. This flavorful, brothy dish is brimming with tiny, tender meatballs, wholesome greens, delicate pasta, and a rich chicken broth that brings everything together in a bowl of absolute warmth.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make an authentic version of this classic soup with easy-to-follow steps, ingredient tips, and serving ideas. Whether you’re making a cozy fall dinner or prepping ahead for the week, this Italian staple is always a crowd-pleaser. Looking for inspiration? Try our Crockpot Chicken Tortilla Soup for another bowl of pure comfort.

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What Is Italian Wedding Soup?

The History and Origin of the Name

Despite what the name might suggest, Italian Wedding Soup isn’t traditionally served at Italian weddings. The name is actually a translation of the Italian phrase “minestra maritata,” which means “married soup.” It refers to the marriage of flavors—especially the pairing of meat and greens—rather than a ceremonial dish.

Though the roots trace back to Italian cuisine, the soup became more popular in Italian-American households than in Italy itself. It’s now a go-to recipe across the U.S., especially during cooler months.

Italian Wedding Soup vs. Other Meatball Soups

Unlike classic meatball soup or minestrone, Italian Wedding Soup is lighter in body but richer in harmony. The broth is clear and chicken-based, the meatballs are mini-sized and pan-seared for flavor, and the pasta is so small it melts into the soup rather than taking center stage. You won’t find big noodles or tomato-heavy sauce here—just balance in every bite.

Meatball lovers should definitely check out our Meatball Casserole for a cheesy, baked variation that also packs a punch of flavor.

Why It’s a Comfort Food Favorite in the U.S.

There’s something universally comforting about soup that simmers with care. Italian Wedding Soup carries a sense of tradition—even if it’s adopted rather than inherited. The blend of seasoned pork and beef, the pop of acini di pepe pasta, and the hit of parmesan cheese make this dish both simple and elegant.

It’s an excellent option for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Meal prep lunches
• Family holiday meals

Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, affordable, and endlessly adaptable.

Don’t miss our Slow Cooker Ravioli Lasagna for another Italian-American fusion dish that’s a breeze to prepare.

Key Ingredients That Make Italian Wedding Soup Irresistible

One of the secrets to an unforgettable Italian Wedding Soup is its thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a specific role, from delivering rich flavor to adding comforting texture. Let’s break down what makes this soup stand out.

The Signature Meatballs – Beef, Pork, and Herbs

At the heart of this soup are the mini meatballs, and they’re anything but basic. The perfect blend of lean ground beef and ground pork delivers both flavor and juiciness. Using fresh breadcrumbs—preferably made from rustic white bread—adds softness, while finely shredded parmesan, parsley, oregano, and egg bind everything into bite-sized perfection.

Want to cut corners? Some use frozen meatballs, but nothing beats the browned, herb-flecked kind made from scratch. Browning the meatballs before simmering them in the soup not only locks in moisture but creates a rich, savory base that elevates the broth.

If you love savory blends like this, don’t miss our Salisbury Steak Dinner—another classic meat-and-gravy dish that satisfies every time.

Acini di Pepe – The Tiny Pasta That Makes a Big Difference

This soup traditionally calls for acini di pepe, a type of tiny, round pasta that holds its shape beautifully in broth. These little pearls add texture without overpowering the meatballs or veggies. It’s the subtle chew of the pasta that makes every spoonful feel complete.

Can’t find acini di pepe? No problem. Orzo, ditalini, pastina (star-shaped pasta), or even small macaroni shells make excellent substitutes.

Discover great ideas like our Baked Spaghetti Meatballs for more pasta-forward comfort meals.

Fresh Greens: Spinach vs. Escarole

No Italian Wedding Soup is complete without greens. While spinach is commonly used due to its quick cook time and mild flavor, escarole and kale are equally traditional choices, offering a slightly bitter edge and a heartier bite.

Spinach goes in at the very end—just before serving—while escarole and kale need a few extra minutes to tenderize. Choose whichever you prefer, or use what you have on hand.

Building a Flavorful Broth

A rich, clear chicken broth forms the soup’s base. For best results, use low-sodium chicken broth so you can season it yourself. Even better? Make your own homemade stock with chicken bones, aromatics, and a parmesan rind for extra depth.

During the cooking process, the browned meatballs infuse the broth with flavor, while the sautéed veggies (carrots, celery, onion) create a classic Italian soffritto that deepens the savory notes.

Pro Tip: Simmer a parmesan rind in the pot as the soup cooks for that authentic umami boost.

For more broth-based comfort, check out our Ground Beef Stovetop Chili—a bold, hearty option with a Tex-Mex twist.

How to Make Authentic Italian Wedding Soup Step-by-Step

Homemade Italian Wedding Soup might sound fancy, but it’s surprisingly simple to put together. With a little prep and a few key techniques, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy soup on your table in under an hour.

Prepping and Browning the Meatballs

Start by combining lean ground beef and pork in a bowl with fresh breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, oregano, finely grated parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper. Gently mix with your hands until just combined—overmixing can lead to tough meatballs.

Shape the mixture into tiny balls, about ¾ to 1 inch in diameter. These small bites cook faster and make the soup easier to eat.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the meatballs in batches, turning occasionally. Browning locks in flavor and gives the meatballs a richer taste compared to just simmering them raw in broth.

Don’t miss our Cheesy Meatball Bombs if you love experimenting with fun, meatball-filled creations.

Sautéing the Soffritto (Onions, Carrots, Celery)

While the meatballs are browning, start the soffritto—the classic Italian soup base of onion, celery, and carrot. In a large soup pot, heat olive oil and sauté the chopped vegetables for about 6–8 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release the aroma.

This base creates the backbone of flavor that brings everything together.

Simmering and Timing for Perfect Flavor

Once your vegetables are tender and fragrant, pour in the chicken broth and season to taste. Bring it to a gentle boil, then stir in the pasta and the browned meatballs. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for about 10 minutes.

This timing ensures the pasta is perfectly cooked and the meatballs finish cooking all the way through. If using a tougher green like escarole or kale, add it with the pasta so it has time to soften.

Want something cozy for the cold months? Try our Crockpot White Chicken Chili for another warming bowl of comfort.

Final Touches – Spinach and Parmesan

In the final minute of cooking, stir in freshly chopped baby spinach. It wilts almost instantly, adding color, nutrients, and freshness to your soup.

To serve, ladle the soup into bowls and top each portion with a generous sprinkle of finely grated parmesan. It melts right into the broth and deepens the flavor.

Serve hot with crusty bread or cheesy garlic toast for a full, soul-warming meal.

Pro Tips to Elevate Your Italian Wedding Soup

Making a great Italian Wedding Soup is easy, but turning it into a truly memorable dish? That’s where smart tweaks and tested kitchen tips come in. Here’s how to bring out maximum flavor and flexibility from this timeless classic.

Best Bread for Homemade Breadcrumbs

Skip the store-bought stuff. Using fresh breadcrumbs made from a hearty rustic loaf makes all the difference. The moisture in fresh crumbs keeps meatballs tender and juicy. Just pulse day-old bread in a food processor until fine.

Pro tip: Avoid dried breadcrumbs—they’ll absorb too much moisture and make your meatballs dense.

Got extra bread? Don’t miss our Baked Bacon Cheese Dip—perfect for dipping crusty bread or serving as a cozy appetizer before soup night.

Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly Ideas

Italian Wedding Soup is a dream for meal prep lovers. You can:

• Freeze the meatballs raw or cooked – just spread them out on a tray, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag.
• Make the full soup and freeze in portions – remember that pasta will absorb broth over time, so undercook slightly if freezing.
• Store in the fridge for 3–4 days in an airtight container.

Before serving leftovers, reheat gently and stir in a splash of broth to restore the original consistency.

Swaps for Pasta and Greens If Needed

No acini di pepe? No problem. You can substitute with:

• Orzo
• Ditalini
• Small elbow macaroni
• Pastina (tiny stars)

For greens, spinach is fast and mild, but escarole, kale, or even chopped Swiss chard work beautifully. Add heartier greens earlier in the simmering stage so they have time to soften.

Broth Upgrades: Homemade Stock and Parmesan Rind

The broth is the soul of this soup. For a richer, homemade feel:

• Use homemade chicken stock if you have time—simmer chicken bones with garlic, herbs, and veggies for 2+ hours.
• Add a parmesan rind to your simmering soup—it dissolves slowly, imparting umami and depth.

You can also use a splash of dry white wine when sautéing the veggies for an added layer of flavor.

Looking for something just as comforting? Check out our Chicken and Noodles Recipe—another warm, hearty classic that’s always a hit.

What to Serve With Italian Wedding Soup

While Italian Wedding Soup is hearty enough to stand on its own, pairing it with the right sides can transform it into a complete, comforting meal. Whether you’re hosting guests or planning a cozy weeknight dinner, these serving ideas add texture, balance, and satisfaction.

Bread Pairings: Garlic Bread, Breadsticks, Crusty Loaves

The best companion to a warm bowl of soup? Bread—and lots of it. You’ll want something to soak up that flavorful broth, so go for:

• Garlic bread – Toasted with butter, garlic, and a sprinkle of herbs
• Homemade breadsticks – Soft, chewy, and great for dipping
• Crusty Italian loaf – Rustic and perfect for sopping every drop

Don’t miss our Garlic Bread or Cheesy Garlic Bread if you’re craving that irresistible golden crunch. It’s the ultimate side for any Italian meal.

Salads and Sides to Complete the Meal

Add a refreshing contrast to the rich soup with a bright side salad. Try:

• Classic Caesar salad
• Arugula with lemon vinaigrette
• Caprese salad – Tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil

For even more Italian flair, consider roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant on the side. They complement the savory meatballs and add a nutritional boost.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Strawberry Tiramisu for a light, sweet finish to balance out the meal.

Make It a Full Italian Dinner Night

Why not build your dinner around your soup? You can start with a light antipasto platter—think olives, salami, and marinated artichokes—then serve your soup, followed by a small pasta course or dessert.

This simple Italian-style progression makes dinner feel a little more special—even if you’re just feeding the family.

And if you’re craving a second course? Our Chicken Parmesan Pasta is rich, flavorful, and super satisfying alongside a smaller bowl of soup.

Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Wedding Soup

Conclusion – Why You’ll Love This Italian Classic

There’s a reason Italian Wedding Soup continues to be a beloved staple in kitchens across America. It’s wholesome, easy to prepare, and packed with flavor from tiny meatballs, vibrant greens, and delicate pasta floating in a savory broth. Whether you’re cooking for your family, prepping meals ahead, or simply craving something cozy and comforting, this soup delivers every time.

It’s the kind of dish that warms both the belly and the heart—and with just a few pantry staples, it’s within reach any night of the week.

Don’t miss our Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings for another soul-soothing, homestyle dinner.

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