Close your eyes and imagine a steaming bowl of soup filled with tender meatballs, vibrant vegetables, and delicate pasta. That’s the magic of the Italian Wedding Soup Recipe – Easy and Best Comfort Food Idea. This classic dish is more than just a meal; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly day and a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you’re looking for a comforting dinner or a special dish to share with loved ones, this recipe has everything you need.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Heartwarming Comfort: Italian wedding soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for soothing the soul.
• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein, vegetables, and wholesome pasta, this soup is a complete meal.
• Customizable: You can tweak the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences or what’s available in your kitchen.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this hearty soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Pork Meatballs

Ingredient	Quantity
Soft gluten-free white bread, crusts removed	½ cup, torn pieces
Onion, finely grated + juices	¼ cup
Parmesan cheese, freshly grated	½ cup
Egg, whisked	1
Garlic, minced	2 cloves
Italian seasoning	1 teaspoon
Salt	½ teaspoon
Pepper	To taste
Ground pork	1 lb

For the Soup

Ingredient	Quantity
Extra virgin olive oil	1 tablespoon
Carrots, thinly sliced	2 medium (≈ 1 cup)
Celery, thinly sliced	2 ribs (≈ 1 cup)
Shallot or onion, chopped	1 large or small
Salt and pepper	To taste
Chicken stock	10 cups
Parmesan cheese wedge rind (optional)	1
Dry gluten-free orzo	¾ cup
Fresh baby spinach, chopped	3 oz
Egg	1
Parmesan cheese, grated	2 tablespoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

For the Meatballs

1. Prepare the Baking Sheet:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or non-stick sprayed foil.
2. Mix the Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, combine the torn bread and grated onion. Let sit for one minute to soften.
   • Add parmesan cheese, whisked egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
   • Add the ground pork and gently mix with your hands until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the meatballs tender.
3. Shape the Meatballs:
   • Use a teaspoon to portion out small amounts of the mixture, then roll into balls. Place them close together on the baking sheet, but not touching.
4. Bake:
   • Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F. Set the meatballs aside. This step can be done a few days ahead of time.

For the Soup

1. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • Heat olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add carrots, celery, and shallot/onion. Season with salt and pepper.
   • Sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender. If needed, add a splash of chicken stock and cover the pot briefly to steam the vegetables.
2. Add Stock and Pasta:
   • Pour in the chicken stock and add the parmesan cheese rind if using. Increase the heat to bring the liquid to a boil.
   • Add the orzo, reduce the heat to medium-low, and simmer until the pasta is al dente (about 20 minutes).
3. Add Meatballs and Spinach:
   • Gently stir in the cooked meatballs. Bring the soup back to a gentle boil.
   • Add the chopped spinach and cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
4. Incorporate the Egg Mixture:
   • In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and grated parmesan cheese.
   • Stir the soup vigorously to create a whirlpool effect, then slowly stream in the egg mixture. Continue stirring to create delicate threads of egg, similar to egg drop soup.
5. Let the Soup Rest:
   • Remove the parmesan rind (if used). Let the soup sit for 10-15 minutes to thicken slightly before serving.

Tips for the Best Italian Wedding Soup

1. Choose Quality Ingredients

• Opt for homemade chicken stock if possible for richer flavor.
• Use fresh parmesan cheese for the best taste.

2. Make It Gluten-Free

• This recipe is naturally gluten-free when using gluten-free bread and pasta. Double-check labels for any hidden gluten.

3. Meal Prep Magic

• Prepare the meatballs ahead of time and freeze them for quick assembly later.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (approx.)
Calories	320
Protein	18g
Fat	12g
Carbohydrates	30g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	680mg

(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and depend on specific ingredients used.)

FAQs About Italian Wedding Soup

1. Why is it called Italian Wedding Soup?

The name comes from the Italian phrase “minestra maritata,” which means “married soup.” It refers to the perfect pairing of meat and vegetables, not actual weddings.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Acini di pepe or small ditalini pasta are great alternatives to orzo.

3. How can I make this soup vegetarian?

Replace the chicken stock with vegetable stock and use plant-based meatballs or omit the meatballs altogether.

4. What can I use instead of pork for the meatballs?

Ground turkey, chicken, or beef work well. Adjust seasonings as needed.

5. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes! Freeze the soup without the pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy. Add freshly cooked pasta when reheating.

6. Is it safe to reheat the soup with the egg threads?

Yes, but reheat gently over low heat to avoid overcooking the egg.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

The Italian Wedding Soup Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The tender meatballs, vibrant vegetables, and flavorful broth create a dish that feels both luxurious and homey. It’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together in harmony, making it a timeless comfort food.

Ready to Make Your Own Italian Wedding Soup?

Grab your ingredients and start cooking! This recipe is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests with your culinary skills. Share your creation with friends and family – they’ll love every spoonful.

Explore More Classic Recipes for even more comfort food ideas. Buon appetito!

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