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A close-up of a bowl of Italian Wedding Soup, featuring mini meatballs, ditalini pasta, carrots, and greens.

Italian Wedding Soup

A hearty and flavorful soup perfect for a chilly evening. This soup features small meatballs, escarole, and pasta in a savory broth.
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 bowls
Course: Soup
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
For the Soup
  • 8 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup diced carrots
  • 1 cup diced celery
  • 1/2 cup small pasta such as ditalini or acini di pepe
  • 4 cups chopped escarole
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic minced

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Medium bowl
  • Baking sheet

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
  3. Roll the meat mixture into small meatballs, about 1/2 inch in diameter. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  4. Bake the meatballs for 10-12 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Set aside.
  5. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Pour in the chicken broth. Add the diced carrots and celery. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
  7. Add the small pasta to the pot and cook according to package directions, usually about 7-10 minutes, until al dente.
  8. Stir in the chopped escarole and the cooked meatballs. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the escarole is wilted.
  9. Serve hot.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 50IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 15mg

Notes

You can substitute spinach for escarole if preferred. For a lighter version, use low-sodium chicken broth.

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