Italian Wedding Soup is a beloved classic, but contrary to popular belief, it has nothing to do with weddings. The name comes from the Italian phrase minestra maritata, meaning "married soup." This refers to the perfect marriage of flavors between the meat and leafy greens that make up this comforting dish. While it is widely enjoyed across Italian American households and restaurants, its roots trace back to Naples, where it was originally a peasant dish made with whatever ingredients were on hand.

As Italians emigrated to the United States, minestra maritata evolved into what we now call Italian Wedding Soup. Today, it’s found on menus across the country, from home kitchens to famous establishments like Rao’s Italian Wedding Soup or Olive Garden’s Italian Wedding Soup Recipe. Even celebrity chefs like Giada De Laurentiis and Ina Garten have created their own takes on this cherished dish, with variations using different pasta shapes, cooking methods like the Instant Pot, or even healthier versions like SkinnyTaste’s Italian Wedding Soup.

Authentic Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for the best Italian Wedding Soup recipe, you’re in the right place! This easy Italian Wedding Soup comes together in no time and can be adapted for the Instant Pot, Crock Pot, or stovetop. It’s hearty, comforting, and bursting with traditional flavors.

Italian Wedding Soup Ingredients:

  • 1/2 pound ground beef

  • 1/2 pound ground pork (or use turkey for a lighter version of Italian Wedding Soup with Turkey Meatballs)

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 egg

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 small onion, diced

  • 2 carrots, diced

  • 2 stalks celery, diced

  • 8 cups chicken broth

  • 1 cup Italian Wedding Soup Pasta (acini di pepe, orzo, or ditalini)

  • 3 cups fresh spinach or escarole, chopped

  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

  • Additional Parmesan for serving

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a bowl, mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Form small bite-sized meatballs and place them on a baking sheet.

  2. Brown the Meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches for 3-4 minutes, then remove and set aside.

  3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

  4. Simmer the Broth: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the meatballs back in and let cook for 10 minutes.

  5. Cook the Pasta: Add pasta to the broth and cook according to package instructions (usually about 8 minutes).

  6. Add the Greens: Stir in spinach or escarole and cook for 2-3 minutes, until wilted.

  7. Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning. Ladle into bowls, sprinkle with extra Parmesan, and enjoy!

How to Make Italian Wedding Soup in Different Ways

  • Instant Pot Italian Wedding Soup: Use the sauté function to brown the meatballs, then add broth and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Quick release, add pasta, and simmer until cooked.

  • Crock Pot Italian Wedding Soup: Add sautéed meatballs and vegetables to a slow cooker with broth. Cook on low for 6 hours, then add pasta and greens in the last 30 minutes.

  • Vegan Italian Wedding Soup: Substitute plant-based meatballs, vegetable broth, and chickpea-based pasta for a fully vegan version.

Where to Find the Best Italian Wedding Soup Near Me

Craving a bowl but don’t want to cook? Many Italian restaurants and chain spots serve their own versions of this soup. You can search for Italian Wedding Soup near me and find it at places like Olive Garden, local trattorias, and even pre-made brands like Progresso Italian Wedding Soup at the grocery store.

Whether you make it from scratch using an authentic Italian Wedding Soup recipe, try a shortcut like Italian Wedding Soup Ina Garten or Giada’s take, or find a bowl at your favorite Italian restaurant, this soup is a celebration of tradition, flavor, and comfort. Order your Italian ingredients today! Buon appetito!