Irresistible Italian Wedding Soup

This Italian Wedding Soup recipe features tender homemade pork meatballs, fresh vegetables, gluten-free orzo, and a rich chicken broth for a comforting, protein-packed meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or cold-weather cooking, this easy soup delivers classic Italian flavors with simple ingredients. A great option for families looking for a hearty, nourishing, and gluten-free soup that comes together with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Soup

• 1 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 2 medium carrots, thinly sliced (about 1 cup)
• 2 ribs celery, thinly sliced (about 1 cup)
• 1 large shallot or small onion, chopped
• Salt and pepper
• 10 cups chicken stock
• 1 parmesan rind (optional)
• 3/4 cup dry gluten-free orzo
• 3 oz fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 egg
• 2 Tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Pork Meatballs (makes ~75 small meatballs)

• 1/2 cup soft gluten-free white bread, torn into small pieces (crusts removed)
• 1/4 cup finely grated onion + juices
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, whisked
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced or microplaned
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Pepper, to taste
• 1 lb ground pork

---

Directions

Make the Meatballs

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil coated with nonstick spray.
2. In a large bowl, combine the torn bread and grated onion. Mix and let sit for 1 minute to soften.
3. Add the Parmesan, egg, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Add the ground pork and gently mix with your hands until just combined.
5. Use a teaspoon to scoop small portions, roll into balls, and place them close together on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until golden and cooked through (internal temperature 160°F). Set aside. You may prepare them a few days ahead.

Make the Soup

1. Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the carrots, celery, and shallot. Season with salt and pepper and sauté until tender, about 8–10 minutes.
2. If the vegetables aren’t softening quickly, add a splash of broth, cover, and steam briefly.
3. Pour in the chicken stock and add the Parmesan rind if using. Increase heat to high and bring to a boil.
4. Add the orzo, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer until al dente, about 20 minutes.
5. Stir in the cooked meatballs.
6. Once the soup returns to a gentle simmer, add the chopped spinach and cook 2–3 minutes until wilted.
7. Whisk together the egg and Parmesan in a small bowl. Give the soup a few strong stirs to create a vortex, then slowly pour in the egg mixture while stirring to create fine strands, similar to egg drop soup.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning. Let the soup rest for 10–15 minutes before discarding the rind and serving.

---

Tips

• For perfectly tender meatballs, avoid overmixing the pork.
• Make the meatballs ahead and freeze; add them directly to the simmering soup.
• If the broth reduces too much, add additional chicken stock as needed.
• Stir continuously when adding the egg mixture to create thin, delicate strands.

Variations and Substitutions

• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of pork for a lighter version.
• Replace gluten-free orzo with rice, pastina, or small gluten-free pasta shapes.
• Add chopped parsley for extra freshness.
• Use vegetable broth and plant-based meatballs for a more flexible option.

FAQs

Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes. Store the soup separately from the pasta to keep it from absorbing too much liquid.

How do I prevent the egg from clumping?
Pour slowly into swirling broth while stirring continuously.

Can I freeze Italian Wedding Soup?
Yes, but freeze without the pasta for best results. Add cooked pasta when reheating.

Do I have to use the Parmesan rind?
No, but it adds depth and richness to the broth.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or gluten-free rolls.
• Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan when ladling into bowls.
• Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting, hearty, and full of classic Italian flavors.
• Tender homemade meatballs and flavorful broth come together easily.
• Naturally gluten-free and customizable.
• Ideal for meal prep, family dinners, and cold-weather meals.