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Italian Wedding Soup recipe

Irresistible Italian Wedding Soup Recipe with Homemade Meatballs

This Italian Wedding Soup recipe features comforting meatballs in a savory broth, perfect for family gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course dinner
Cuisine Italian
Servings 6 bowls
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • - Large bowl
  • - Large pot

Ingredients
  

For the Meatballs

  • 1 lb Lean Ground Beef Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
  • 1/2 lb Mild Italian Sausage Use hot sausage for more kick.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese More can be used for serving.
  • 1 large Egg May substitute with a flax egg for a vegan option.
  • 1 clove Garlic Minced; omit if allergic or use garlic powder.
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Can replace with regular breadcrumbs.
  • 1 tsp Kosher Salt Adjust based on dietary needs.
  • 1/2 tsp Ground Black Pepper Substitute with white pepper for a milder flavor.

For the Soup Base

  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Can substitute with vegetable oil.
  • 1 cup Chopped Carrots
  • 1 cup Chopped Yellow Onion
  • 1 cup Chopped Celery
  • 4 cups Chicken Broth Use low-sodium broth for less salt.
  • 1 cup Canned Beef Broth Can use only chicken broth if preferred.

For the Hearty Elements

  • 1 cup Pearl Couscous Substitute with orzo or mini shells.
  • 3 cups Baby Spinach Can use kale or omit.

For the Finishing Touch

  • 2 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice Substitute with lemon zest for a stronger citrus note.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F. Prepare a baking sheet with nonstick spray.
  • Combine the lean ground beef, mild Italian sausage, egg, panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, kosher salt, and ground black pepper in a large bowl. Mix until well combined.
  • Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. Place them evenly on the prepared baking sheet.
  • Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until they are browned and cooked through.

Cooking the Soup

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped carrots, onion, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Pour in chicken broth and beef broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  • Stir in the pearl couscous and cook until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
  • Add the baby spinach and meatballs to the pot. Finish with a splash of fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors before serving hot.

Notes

Optional: Garnish with extra grated Parmesan for an added touch of flavor.
Keyword Comfort Food, hearty, homemade, Italian Wedding Soup recipe, meatballs, soup