Italian Meatball Soup, also known as “Italian Wedding Soup,” is a delicious and comforting dish that features flavorful meatballs, vegetables, and pasta in a savory broth. Here’s a simple recipe for you to try:
Ingredients:
For the Meatballs:
- 1 pound ground beef or a mixture of beef and pork
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Soup:
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup small pasta (such as acini di pepe or orzo)
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup chopped spinach or kale
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare Meatballs:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, egg, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until well combined, then shape into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Cook Meatballs:
- In a large soup pot, bring chicken broth to a simmer over medium heat.
- Carefully add meatballs to the simmering broth and cook for about 10 minutes or until cooked through. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.
- Add Vegetables and Pasta:
- Add chopped carrots, celery, and onion to the pot. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the small pasta to the pot and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Add Greens:
- Stir in chopped spinach or kale and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until wilted.
- Season and Serve:
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, ensuring each serving has a mix of meatballs, pasta, and vegetables.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Enjoy your Italian Meatball Soup! It’s a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a comforting meal.
