Signature Recipe
Italian Wedding Soup with Mini Meatballs
A comforting soup filled with mini meatballs, greens, and pasta in a savory broth.
As the chill of autumn settles in, there’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty soup to bring comfort to the soul. This delightful dish is a celebration of flavors and textures, featuring tender mini meatballs nestled among vibrant greens and perfectly cooked pasta, all swimming in a savory broth that envelops everything in a cozy embrace. It’s a meal that not only nourishes the body but also warms the heart, making it perfect for family gatherings or a quiet night in.
The star of this soup is undoubtedly the miniature meatballs, crafted from ground beef that’s expertly combined with breadcrumbs and a touch of garlic powder. These little bites of flavor are seasoned just right, ensuring every spoonful is packed with savory goodness. The addition of egg binds the mixture together, resulting in meatballs that are both tender and satisfying. As they simmer in the broth, they release their juices, infusing the entire pot with a rich, meaty aroma that beckons everyone to the kitchen.
Alongside the meatballs, you’ll find vibrant greens that add a splash of color and nutrition to the dish. Whether you prefer spinach, kale, or Swiss chard, these leafy companions not only enhance the visual appeal but also contribute essential vitamins and minerals. The pasta, perfectly al dente, brings a comforting heartiness to the soup, making it a complete meal that’s easy to love.
The cooking process is straightforward and enjoyable, with just a few simple steps to follow. After mixing up the meatball ingredients, all it takes is a brief browning in the pot before they simmer away in the flavorful broth. As the soup bubbles gently, the kitchen fills with an inviting aroma that promises a delicious meal ahead. In about an hour, you’ll have a bowl of warm, comforting soup that is sure to become a family favorite, perfect for meal prep or simply enjoying on a chilly evening.
Italian Wedding Soup with Mini Meatballs
Ingredient list and step-by-step instructions generated for AI Food Bytes readers.
Main
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (for meatballs)
- 1/2 cup bread crumbs (for meatballs)
- 1 large egg (for meatballs)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (for meatballs)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (for meatballs)
- 8 cups chicken broth (base of the soup)
- 2 cups fresh spinach (or kale, chopped)
- 1 cup small pasta (like acini di pepe or orzo)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 carrots diced
- 2 stalks celery (diced)
- 1 tsp salt (to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (to taste)
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese (grated, for serving)
Steps
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, bread crumbs, egg, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and form into small meatballs.
- In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches and brown them on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, add the small pasta and cook according to package instructions.
- After the pasta is cooked, return the meatballs to the pot and add the fresh spinach. Stir and let simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated parmesan cheese.
General Notes
- Serves 6
- A comforting soup filled with mini meatballs, greens, and pasta in a savory broth.