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Crock Pot Italian Wedding Soup

Crock Pot Italian Wedding Soup
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Crock Pot Italian Wedding Soup is a comforting, slow-cooked classic that combines savory meatballs, tender greens, and small pasta shapes in a rich, flavorful broth. Perfect for any season, this easy-to-make recipe delivers hearty, nutritious satisfaction for families and soup lovers alike.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatballs

  • 1 lb ground beef and/or pork (or turkey)
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or fresh herbs of choice)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Soup Base

  • 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Vegetables and Pasta

  • 4 cups fresh spinach or escarole
  • 1/2 cup small pasta shapes (acini di pepe, orzo, or tiny shells; gluten-free if necessary)

To Serve

  • Additional grated Parmesan cheese for topping
  • Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • Olive oil for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meatballs: Combine ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, Italian seasoning, egg, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix until just combined, then roll into small, bite-size meatballs.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: In a skillet, lightly sauté chopped onions and garlic over medium heat until translucent and fragrant to enhance the soup’s flavor base.
  3. Layer Ingredients in the Crock Pot: Add the broth, sautéed onions and garlic, meatballs, and Italian seasoning to the Crock Pot. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
  4. Slow Cook: Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, allowing the meatballs and broth to meld together for rich, comforting flavors.
  5. Add Pasta and Greens: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the pasta and fresh spinach so they cook perfectly without becoming mushy.
  6. Finish with Parmesan and Serve: Just before serving, sprinkle extra grated Parmesan cheese on top. Optionally, garnish with chopped parsley and a drizzle of olive oil to add fresh aroma and color.

Notes

  • Make small meatballs for even cooking and better integration with the broth and pasta.
  • Use fresh herbs when possible to brighten the flavor profile of the soup.
  • Add pasta toward the end of cooking to avoid overcooking and mushiness.
  • Skim any excess fat from meatballs after browning to keep the soup lighter.
  • Sautéing onions and garlic first enhances sweetness and depth in the final dish.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian wedding soup, crock pot recipe, slow cooker soup, meatball soup, comforting soup, easy Italian soup, gluten free Italian soup, family dinner

Find it online: https://dishesbylina.com/crock-pot-italian-wedding-soup/