– 1 lb ground beef or turkey
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup small pasta (ditalini or acini di pepe)
– 2 cups baby spinach or kale
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Optional: Extra grated Parmesan for serving
Creating the Best Ever Italian Wedding Soup is simple if you follow these steps:
1. Make the Meatballs: In a mixing bowl, combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and form into small meatballs.
2. Brown the Meatballs: In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs in batches, cooking until browned on all sides. Remove from the pot and set aside.
3. Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft. Add garlic and sauté for another minute.
4. Add Broth and Herbs: Pour in the chicken broth and add dried oregano and basil. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Cook the Pasta: Once boiling, stir in the pasta of choice and cook according to package instructions, usually 7-10 minutes.
6. Add Meatballs and Greens: Return the meatballs to the pot and stir in the spinach or kale. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the greens wilt.
7. Season to Taste: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional grated Parmesan if desired.
These comprehensive steps will guide you in crafting a rich and hearty Italian Wedding Soup that delights everyone at your table.