The classic comfort food that never goes out of style – Italian Wedding Soup! This beloved recipe has been passed down through generations, and its warm, flavorful broth and tender meatballs have captured the hearts (and stomachs) of many. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious and innovative recipes for Italian Wedding Soup, each with its own twist and flair.
From classic renditions featuring homemade meatballs to vegetarian and gluten-free variations, there’s something for everyone in this collection. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these heartwarming recipes are sure to become new family favorites.
Classic Italian Wedding Soup with Meatballs
This hearty soup is a staple of Italian-American cuisine, filled with tender meatballs and vegetables in a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1/2 cup small pasta shapes (e.g., elbow macaroni)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
3. Form into meatballs (about 20-25) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with a little olive oil.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large pot, combine crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, carrot, celery, and pasta shapes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes.
6. Add meatballs to the soup and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes
Vegetarian Italian Wedding Soup with Spinach
A hearty and flavorful vegetarian take on the classic Italian wedding soup, this recipe adds a nutritious boost from fresh spinach.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup cooked white beans (such as cannellini or navy)
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in the cooked white beans, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Stir in fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Italian Wedding Soup with Orzo
Creamy Italian Wedding Soup with Orzo: A comforting and flavorful twist on a classic recipe!
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground beef
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add ground beef; cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add chicken broth, orzo pasta, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until orzo is tender.
5. Stir in heavy cream; cook an additional 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup
This classic Italian soup recipe is a staple of many family gatherings and celebrations. With its tender meatballs, rich broth, and perfectly cooked vegetables, this slow cooker version is an easy and convenient way to enjoy this beloved dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 oz small pasta shapes (such as acini di pepe or tiny elbows)
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a medium bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Roll mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a plate or tray.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, basil, and pasta to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
5. Add meatballs to the slow cooker, leaving some space between each for even cooking.
6. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
7. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in spinach.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Instant Pot Italian Wedding Soup
This classic Italian-American soup is a staple at many weddings and celebrations. This pressure-cooked recipe makes it easy to enjoy this comforting dish at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add chicken, broth, tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” and set cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Open lid and add pasta. Stir to combine. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gluten-Free Italian Wedding Soup
Experience the classic flavors of Italy with this gluten-free take on a beloved tradition. This hearty soup is packed with tender chicken, vegetables, and tiny pasta shapes that are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups gluten-free chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, celery, and onions)
– 1/2 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, onion, and garlic in a little olive oil until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the chicken broth, mixed vegetables, pasta shapes, and basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Low-Carb Italian Wedding Soup with Cauliflower Rice
A low-carb twist on a classic comfort food, this recipe combines the flavors of Italy with the nutritional benefits of cauliflower rice. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head of cauliflower
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and pulse in a food processor until it resembles rice.
3. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, garlic, and parsley in olive oil until cooked through.
4. Add chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, and cauliflower “rice” to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Italian Wedding Soup with Red Pepper Flakes
This recipe adds a bold twist to the classic Italian Wedding Soup, incorporating spicy red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 8 ounces small pasta shapes (e.g., elbow macaroni)
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and add to the soup pot.
5. Simmer the soup for an additional 10 minutes.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheesy Italian Wedding Soup with Parmesan
A classic Italian wedding soup recipe gets a creamy twist with the addition of Parmesan cheese and a hint of garlic. This comforting soup is perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground beef
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
5. Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
6. Add the pasta shapes and cook according to package instructions.
7. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Keto-Friendly Italian Wedding Soup
A rich and flavorful twist on the classic Italian wedding soup, this recipe is perfect for those following a ketogenic diet. By using low-carb ingredients and reducing the serving size, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying bowl of soup without compromising your dietary goals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth (make sure it’s sugar-free and low-carb)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as spinach, kale, and bell peppers)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
7. Stir in the mixed vegetables and Parmesan cheese.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Italian Wedding Soup
This hearty soup is a classic Italian wedding tradition, bringing together tender vegetables and meat for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, celery, and potatoes)
– 1 pound ground beef
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the mixed vegetables, ground beef, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chicken and Sausage Italian Wedding Soup
Combine tender chicken, savory sausage, and flavorful vegetables in a rich broth, inspired by Italy’s most romantic celebration – the wedding feast!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 Italian sausage links, casings removed
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 3 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 small pasta shapes (e.g., acini di pepe or tiny elbow macaroni)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the carrots, celery, broth, tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Cook pasta shapes according to package instructions. Drain and add to the pot.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: About 30 minutes
Lemon Herb Italian Wedding Soup
This refreshing twist on classic Italian wedding soup combines tender chicken meatballs with a bright and citrusy broth, perfect for a light and satisfying meal. The addition of fresh herbs adds a pop of flavor to this comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground chicken
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, and seasonings; shape into meatballs.
3. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large pot, combine broth, water, lemon juice, parsley, and basil. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Add cooked chicken meatballs to the soup; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Paleo Italian Wedding Soup with Kale
This hearty, comforting soup is a paleo twist on the classic Italian wedding soup, featuring tender vegetables and nutrient-rich kale.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth (make sure it’s paleo-friendly)
– 1 cup kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has reached your desired consistency.
6. Stir in the chopped kale and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mini Meatball Italian Wedding Soup
This hearty soup is a twist on the classic wedding soup, with mini meatballs adding a fun and flavorful touch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mini pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, and olive oil. Mix until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into mini meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large pot, combine chopped onion, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and basil. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.
6. Add cooked mini meatballs to the pot and stir to combine.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rustic Italian Wedding Soup with Fresh Herbs
This hearty soup is a twist on the classic Italian wedding soup, featuring fresh herbs and a rustic touch. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 small meatballs (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Stir in the chopped parsley, basil, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add the meatballs to the pot and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until they’re heated through.
6. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Tomato-Based Italian Wedding Soup
This classic Italian wedding soup recipe gets a flavorful twist with the addition of fresh tomatoes, making it a hearty and comforting meal perfect for any occasion. Serve with crusty bread for dipping and enjoy!
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (such as acini di pepe or tiny shells)
– 1 pound ground beef
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until translucent.
3. Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, pasta shapes, and ground beef. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until pasta is cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick and Easy Italian Wedding Soup
This classic Italian soup is a staple of family gatherings and cozy meals. With its tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and rich broth, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (such as acini di pepe or elbow macaroni)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and pasta shapes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and dried basil.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Warm up with these 18 mouthwatering Italian Wedding Soup recipes! From classic meatball varieties to vegetarian and gluten-free options, there’s something for everyone. Try our slow cooker or Instant Pot versions for a hands-off approach. For low-carb and keto-friendly twists, cauliflower rice and Parmesan cheese take center stage. Don’t miss our paleo option with kale, or the mini meatball recipe perfect for party appetizers. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy or cheesy, there’s an Italian Wedding Soup recipe here to satisfy your cravings!
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