There’s something magical about a bowl of hearty Italian wedding soup on a chilly day. The rich, flavorful broth, tender meatballs, and delicate acini di pepe pasta come together to create a meal that feels like a warm embrace. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or simply craving comfort food, this soup delivers satisfaction in every spoonful.
Despite its name, Italian wedding soup isn’t about weddings at all. The term “minestra maritata” translates to “married soup”—a reference to the perfect harmony between the greens and meat. This timeless recipe has been cherished for generations, bringing warmth and tradition to countless dinner tables.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this soul-soothing dish, from its history and nutritional benefits to step-by-step preparation tips.
Why You’ll Love This Italian Wedding Soup
- Rich in Flavor – A perfect blend of savory broth, aromatic spices, and cheesy meatballs.
- Nutrient-Packed – Loaded with protein, vitamins, and minerals from fresh ingredients.
- Comforting & Satisfying – A hearty meal that warms you up from the inside out.
- Meal-Prep Friendly – Stores well for easy lunches and dinners throughout the week.
- Easy to Customize – Swap ingredients to fit dietary preferences.
Ingredients for a Perfect Italian Wedding Soup
For the Meatballs:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground sausage | 8 ounces |
| Ground beef | 8 ounces |
| Breadcrumbs | ½ cup |
| Large egg | 1 |
| Italian seasoning | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | ¼ cup |
| Lukewarm water | 3 tablespoons |
For the Soup:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | 2 ½ tablespoons |
| Yellow onion, diced | 1 large |
| Carrots, peeled and chopped | 4 large |
| Celery, finely chopped | 2 stalks |
| Garlic, minced | 8 cloves |
| Crushed red pepper flakes | ¼ teaspoon |
| Chicken broth | 8 cups |
| Beef broth | 4 cups |
| Acini di pepe pasta | ⅔ cup |
| Fresh spinach, roughly chopped | 4 cups |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste) |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon (adjust to taste) |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | ⅔ cup |
| Fresh lemon juice | 3 tablespoons |
How to Make Hearty Italian Wedding Soup
1. Prepare the Meatballs
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground sausage, ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, grated Parmesan cheese, and lukewarm water.
- Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Shape the mixture into small 1-inch meatballs and set them aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add diced onions, carrots, and celery, then sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes and cook for 1-2 more minutes until fragrant.
3. Simmer the Broth and Cook the Meatballs
- Pour in chicken broth and beef broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Carefully add the meatballs one by one to the simmering broth.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the meatballs are fully cooked and tender.
4. Add the Pasta and Spinach
- Stir in acini di pepe pasta and continue simmering for 8-10 minutes until the pasta is tender.
- Add chopped spinach and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until wilted.
5. Season and Serve
- Adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Drizzle fresh lemon juice over each bowl for a bright, fresh finish.
Nutritional Benefits of Italian Wedding Soup
1. High in Protein for Muscle Growth
The combination of ground sausage, beef, and Parmesan cheese provides ample protein to keep you full and energized.
2. Packed with Vitamins and Minerals
- Carrots and spinach supply vitamins A, C, and K, promoting immune health and strong bones.
- Celery contains antioxidants that support heart health.
3. Supports Digestive Health
The fiber from vegetables and pasta aids digestion and promotes gut health.
4. Low in Calories, High in Nutrients
Despite being hearty, this soup remains relatively low in calories while offering a wide range of nutrients.
Expert Tips for the Best Italian Wedding Soup
1. Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh vegetables, high-quality broth, and freshly grated Parmesan make a big difference in flavor.
2. Don’t Overwork the Meatballs
Gently mix the meatball ingredients to keep them light and tender.
3. Adjust the Consistency
If the soup gets too thick, add a bit more broth to reach your desired consistency.
4. Make It Ahead for Better Flavor
Like most soups, Italian wedding soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Popular Variations of Italian Wedding Soup
1. Low-Carb Version
Replace the acini di pepe pasta with cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly version.
2. Gluten-Free Adaptation
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the meatballs and swap in gluten-free pasta.
3. Extra Hearty Variation
Add white beans or potatoes for a thicker, more filling soup.
How to Store and Reheat Italian Wedding Soup
1. Refrigerating Leftovers
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.
2. Freezing for Later
- Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
- If freezing, cook the pasta separately and add it when reheating.
3. Reheating Instructions
- Stovetop: Simmer on low heat until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Orzo, ditalini, or pastina all work well in this soup.
2. How can I make this soup vegetarian?
Swap the meatballs for plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of chicken and beef broth.
3. What can I use instead of spinach?
Kale or Swiss chard are great substitutes that add a similar texture and nutrition.
4. Can I prepare the meatballs in advance?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked meatballs and add them directly to the simmering broth when ready to cook.
5. What’s the best way to thicken the broth?
If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer, or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.
6. Is this soup spicy?
No, but you can increase the heat by adding more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Final Thoughts & Call to Action
This hearty Italian wedding soup is a comforting, nourishing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold evening or serving it at a gathering, its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients make it a favorite for all ages.