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Italian Wedding Soup with Parmesan Meatballs

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Italian Wedding Soup with Parmesan Meatballs is a comforting, flavorful soup made with tender meatballs, fresh greens, and tiny pasta in a savory broth. Despite its name, the ‘wedding’ refers to the perfect harmony between the meat and vegetables.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/3 cup bread crumbs
  • 1 egg
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (for browning, optional)
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 8 cups chicken broth
  • 3/4 cup acini di pepe or orzo pasta
  • 4 cups fresh spinach or chopped escarole
  • Optional: red pepper flakes, lemon juice, extra Parmesan for serving

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, mix ground meat, Parmesan, bread crumbs, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper until just combined. Form into small, bite-sized meatballs.
  2. (Optional) Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown meatballs on all sides, then set aside.
  3. In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
  5. Add the meatballs to the pot. Simmer for 10–12 minutes or until meatballs are fully cooked.
  6. Stir in pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
  7. Add spinach or escarole and cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Add lemon juice for brightness if desired.
  9. Serve hot, topped with extra Parmesan and red pepper flakes if desired.

Notes

Use ground turkey for a leaner meatball option.Browning the meatballs adds extra flavor but is optional.Cook pasta separately if planning for leftovers to avoid sogginess.Use gluten-free pasta and bread crumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.Freezes well—store in individual portions for easy reheating.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookibly.com/italian-wedding-soup-with-parmesan-meatballs/