Italian Wedding Soup

Name: Italian Wedding Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3-4); 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 4 cups fresh spinach or kale; 1 cup acini di pepe or orzo pasta; 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Published: November 18, 2025

by william castellanos

Why You'll Love This Italian Wedding Soup

This incredible Italian Wedding Soup transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Italian Wedding Soup:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor.
Onion: A medium onion adds depth to the broth; chop finely for even cooking.
Spinach or Kale: Fresh greens bring vibrant color and nutrients; opt for baby spinach for a milder flavor.
Pasta: Small pasta shapes like acini di pepe or orzo work best; they soak up all that delicious broth.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness; homemade broth is even better!
Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan for topping; it adds rich umami flavor.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Italian Wedding Soup:

Step 1: Prepare Your Meatballs

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a bowl, combine ground chicken (or beef), minced garlic, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. Shape them into small meatballs—aim for about an inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 2: Bake the Meatballs

Pop those meatballs into the oven and bake them for around 15-20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. This step is key to locking in all those juicy flavors!

Step 3: Start the Broth

In a large pot over medium heat, add some olive oil and sauté chopped onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and stir until fragrant—about one minute should do it! Pour in your chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add Greens and Pasta

Once your broth is simmering away like it’s on vacation in Tuscany, toss in the fresh spinach (or kale) along with your choice of small pasta. Let everything cook together until the pasta is al dente—this usually takes about 8-10 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Take those glorious meatballs out of the oven and gently add them to your soup pot. Stir well to incorporate all those wonderful flavors. Let it simmer for another five minutes.

Step 6: Serve with Love

Ladle generous portions into bowls and sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan on top. And voilà! You have yourself a heartwarming bowl of Italian Wedding Soup ready to be devoured.

Serve hot with crusty bread on the side—or eat straight from the pot if no one’s watching! Remember, sharing is caring… but sometimes it’s okay to keep it all to yourself after a long day.

Now that you’ve mastered this comforting classic, get ready for compliments from family and friends who will wonder how you became such an amazing chef overnight. Enjoy every sip of this delightful Italian Wedding Soup; it’s sure to become a staple in your household!

You Must Know About Italian Wedding Soup

This showstopping Italian Wedding Soup delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by searing the meatballs until golden brown to develop flavor. Then, simmer the broth with aromatics before adding the greens and pasta. This sequence ensures everything cooks evenly and maximizes taste.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to swap out the spinach for kale or add in some diced tomatoes for a zesty twist. Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil to personalize your Italian Wedding Soup.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture and flavor.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Italian Wedding Soup

This professional-quality Italian Wedding Soup relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Sharing this recipe with friends once turned into a full-on Italian feast! Everyone raved about it, especially when I told them how easy it was to make.

FAQs

What is Italian Wedding Soup?

Italian Wedding Soup is a traditional dish that combines meatballs, leafy greens, and small pasta. Originating from Southern Italy, this hearty soup is rich in flavor and comfort. The name suggests a “marriage” of flavors rather than an actual wedding. The dish typically features ingredients such as spinach or escarole, which add freshness to the savory meatballs made from ground beef or pork. This delightful blend makes Italian Wedding Soup a favorite among families, especially during colder months.

How do you make Italian Wedding Soup?

To make Italian Wedding Soup, start by preparing small meatballs using ground meat, breadcrumbs, and spices. Bake or fry them until browned. In a large pot, sauté garlic and onions before adding chicken broth. Next, incorporate your favorite greens like spinach or kale and let them simmer. Finally, add the cooked meatballs and tiny pasta shapes like acini di pepe or orzo for texture. Simmer everything together for a deliciously heartwarming meal.

What are some variations of Italian Wedding Soup?

While the classic recipe remains popular, many enjoy creating variations of Italian Wedding Soup. Some versions include different types of greens such as kale or Swiss chard. Others may use turkey or chicken for the meatballs instead of traditional beef or pork. Additionally, you can experiment with different pasta shapes like ditalini or even quinoa for a gluten-free option. Each variation offers a unique spin on this beloved recipe while maintaining its comforting essence.

Can I make Italian Wedding Soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can definitely prepare Italian Wedding Soup ahead of time! In fact, it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together beautifully. To store it properly, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days or freeze for longer storage. When reheating, add a splash of broth if necessary to maintain consistency since pasta absorbs liquid over time.

Conclusion

In summary, Italian Wedding Soup is a beloved dish that brings comfort and flavor to any meal. With its combination of savory meatballs, fresh greens, and small pasta, it’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Making this soup allows for various adaptations to suit your taste preferences while staying true to its roots. Whether enjoyed on cold days or special occasions, this delightful soup is sure to warm hearts and homes alike.