If you’ve ever dined at Olive Garden, you’ve likely enjoyed their comforting and flavoIf you’ve ever dined at Olive Garden, you’ve likely enjoyed their comforting and flavorful Italian Wedding Soup. This heartwarming dish combines tender, savory meatballs, fresh greens, and a rich, aromatic broth.
It’s the perfect dish for a cozy meal at home, and in this post, we’ll show you how to recreate this iconic soup straight from Olive Garden’s kitchen to yours.
Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner or just craving a hearty bowl of goodness, this recipe will bring the familiar flavors of the restaurant right to your table.
So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to make your own version of this delicious Italian Wedding Soup!
What is Italian Wedding Soup?
Italian Wedding Soup, known as minestra maritata in Italy, is a traditional Italian-American dish that combines two key elements: small meatballs and leafy greens, typically escarole or spinach, simmered in a savory broth.
Despite the name, it’s not associated with weddings directly, but rather refers to the “marriage” of the flavors from the tender meatballs and the aromatic broth. This harmonious blend of ingredients creates a satisfying and flavorful soup that has become a favorite in many households.
The soup’s roots can be traced to southern Italy, where it was originally made with a variety of meats and greens. In Olive Garden’s version, the meatballs are small and perfectly seasoned, creating a bite-sized burst of flavor with every spoonful.
The soup is typically made with a chicken broth base, complemented by aromatic vegetables like onions, garlic, and carrots, adding to the richness of the dish. Fresh spinach (or escarole) is added toward the end, giving the soup a delicate, yet robust flavor.
In short, Italian Wedding Soup is the perfect balance of hearty, savory ingredients, and Olive Garden’s recipe has become an iconic version of this classic comfort food.
Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just a cozy night in, it’s a dish that promises to warm both the body and soul.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To recreate the delightful flavors of Olive Garden’s Italian Wedding Soup, you’ll need a handful of simple yet essential ingredients.
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to get started:
For the Meatballs:
- Ground Beef (or a combination of beef and pork): The perfect base for juicy meatballs. Beef provides a rich flavor, while pork adds a tender texture.
- Breadcrumbs: These help bind the meatballs together and keep them light and tender.
- Egg: The egg acts as a binding agent, ensuring your meatballs hold together while cooking.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds an extra layer of savory flavor to the meatballs.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings a burst of aromatic flavor to the meatballs.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley gives the meatballs a fresh, herby note.
- Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings that elevate the taste of the meatballs.
For the Soup Base:
- Chicken Broth: A flavorful, rich base that infuses the soup with depth. You can use homemade or store-bought.
- Carrots: Sliced thinly to add a touch of sweetness and color to the soup.
- Onion: A finely chopped onion will provide an aromatic foundation for the broth.
- Garlic: A few cloves of garlic to enhance the overall flavor of the broth.
- Spinach (or Escarole): Fresh spinach is commonly used in Olive Garden’s version for its mild flavor and tender texture. Alternatively, escarole can be used for a slightly more bitter taste.
- Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables and giving the soup a light richness.
- Salt and Pepper: These seasonings help balance the flavor of the broth and meatballs.
For the Garnish:
- Fresh Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan at the end adds an authentic touch and enhances the soup’s flavor.
- Fresh Parsley: A little extra parsley for garnish brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Olive Garden’s Italian Wedding Soup
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the process of making Olive Garden’s Italian Wedding Soup. It’s a simple and rewarding recipe that will make your kitchen smell amazing and have everyone asking for seconds.
Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) if you plan to bake the meatballs. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together gently, ensuring the ingredients are evenly distributed, but don’t overwork the mixture to keep the meatballs tender.
Roll the mixture into small, bite-sized meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. If you prefer a crispier texture, you can also fry them in a skillet with a bit of olive oil until browned on all sides. If baking, place the meatballs on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake them in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and golden brown.
Step 2: Prepare the Soup Base
While the meatballs are cooking, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and carrots, and sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Next, pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow the broth to cook for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld together. You can add extra seasoning at this point if you prefer a more robust flavor.
Step 3: Add the Meatballs
Once the meatballs are cooked and golden, carefully add them to the simmering broth. Stir gently to avoid breaking the meatballs. Let them cook in the broth for about 10 minutes, so they can absorb the rich flavors of the soup and fully heat through.
Step 4: Add the Greens
After the meatballs have cooked through, it’s time to add the greens. If you’re using spinach, stir in the fresh leaves and cook until they’ve wilted, about 3-4 minutes. If you’re using escarole, it may need a little more time to soften, but it will add a slightly more bitter flavor to the soup.
Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Once everything is cooked, ladle the soup into bowls. Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of parsley. The Parmesan will melt into the hot soup, adding a creamy richness, while the parsley will give it a fresh, vibrant touch.
Serve your Olive Garden-inspired Italian Wedding Soup hot, and enjoy every comforting spoonful!
Tips for the Perfect Olive Garden Italian Wedding Soup
To ensure your Italian Wedding Soup turns out just like Olive Garden’s version (if not better!), here are some tips to help you achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
1. Use Fresh Herbs in the Meatballs
For the best meatball flavor, use fresh parsley rather than dried. Fresh herbs will bring a more vibrant taste and a brighter color to the meatballs, giving them that authentic flavor you’d expect from Olive Garden’s recipe. You can also add a pinch of dried oregano or basil for extra depth.
2. Don’t Overwork the Meatball Mixture
When making the meatballs, be careful not to overmix the ingredients. Overworking the meatball mixture can make them dense and tough. Mix gently until just combined, then form them into small balls for the perfect texture.
3. Use a Quality Broth
The chicken broth is the base of your soup, so don’t skimp on quality. If possible, use homemade chicken broth or opt for a low-sodium version to control the salt levels. A rich, flavorful broth will bring out the best in your soup and make all the difference in the final taste.
4. Sauté the Vegetables First
Sautéing the onions, garlic, and carrots before adding them to the broth helps bring out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the soup. It creates a deeper, more savory base for the soup.
5. Don’t Skip the Parmesan
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is key to bringing a delicious umami richness to the soup. Be sure to sprinkle it generously on top just before serving for that finishing touch that ties everything together.
6. Adjust the Greens to Your Preference
While Olive Garden uses spinach in their soup, escarole is also a popular choice. You can adjust the greens based on your preference for a milder or slightly more bitter flavor. Spinach will cook down nicely and blend in well, while escarole holds its shape and adds a subtle bitterness.
7. Keep the Meatballs Tender
If you choose to fry the meatballs, make sure the oil is hot enough to create a nice golden crust. However, avoid overcooking them in the pan to prevent them from becoming tough. Alternatively, baking the meatballs in the oven is a more hands-off method and results in juicy meatballs that are perfectly cooked through.
8. Season with Patience
Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go. Every broth, vegetable, and even spinach or escarole can vary in flavor. Be sure to taste your broth after adding the greens and meatballs and adjust the salt and pepper to suit your taste. A small splash of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the soup further.
What to Serve with Olive Garden Italian Wedding Soup
While Olive Garden’s Italian Wedding Soup is hearty and satisfying on its own, pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal even more.
Here are some great options to complement your soup:
1. Garlic Bread
A classic choice, garlic bread is the perfect accompaniment to Italian Wedding Soup. The crispy, buttery bread soaked with savory garlic pairs wonderfully with the rich, flavorful broth. You can either bake a loaf of your favorite bread with garlic butter or pick up a pre-made option to save time.
2. Fresh Salad
A light, crisp salad works well with the richness of the soup. Opt for a simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette. This provides a refreshing contrast to the warmth and heartiness of the soup. A Caesar salad is also a fantastic choice for a more indulgent pairing.
3. Crusty Italian Bread
Nothing complements a bowl of soup quite like fresh, crusty Italian bread. Serve a sliced loaf of rustic bread on the side for dipping, or make homemade crostini for a crispy option. The bread helps to soak up all the delicious broth, making every bite feel like a true indulgence.
4. Roasted Vegetables
For a healthy and flavorful side, consider serving roasted vegetables. Roasting vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions brings out their natural sweetness and adds a smoky depth to the meal. The subtle flavors pair nicely with the soup without overpowering it.
5. A Glass of Italian Wine
To complete your Italian meal, pair your soup with a glass of wine. A light white wine like Pinot Grigio or a dry Chardonnay would complement the flavors of the soup without overwhelming them. If you prefer red wine, a light-bodied option such as a Chianti or Pinot Noir would also work well.
6. A Light Pasta Dish
If you’re looking for a more filling side, consider serving a small pasta dish, such as spaghetti aglio e olio or pasta with a simple tomato sauce. The lightness of these dishes won’t overshadow the soup but will make for a heartier meal.
Variations of Olive Garden Italian Wedding Soup
While Olive Garden’s Italian Wedding Soup is already a delicious and satisfying dish, there are a few ways you can modify the recipe to cater to different dietary preferences or personal tastes.
Here are some variations you can try:
1. Vegetarian Version
If you’re looking to make a vegetarian or meatless version of this soup, simply skip the meatballs altogether or substitute them with plant-based alternatives. You can use a mixture of lentils, chickpeas, or even tofu crumbles to replace the meatballs while keeping the soup hearty and nutritious. For the broth, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to maintain the flavor balance. Adding extra vegetables like zucchini, peas, or mushrooms can provide more texture and flavor.
2. Gluten-Free Version
For a gluten-free take on this Italian Wedding Soup, swap out the regular breadcrumbs in the meatballs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground almonds. You can also use gluten-free pasta instead of the traditional pasta or omit it entirely. If you decide to include pasta, make sure it’s cooked separately to avoid the noodles absorbing too much liquid from the soup.
3. Chicken Meatballs
If you prefer a lighter version of the soup, try making the meatballs with ground chicken or turkey instead of beef and pork. Chicken meatballs are a great option for those who want a leaner protein without sacrificing flavor. You can also add a bit of Italian seasoning or fresh herbs to the chicken meatballs to keep them flavorful and juicy.
4. Adding Pasta
Olive Garden’s Italian Wedding Soup doesn’t always include pasta, but if you enjoy a heartier, more filling soup, adding small pasta shapes like orzo, ditalini, or acini di pepe can turn this dish into a more substantial meal. Just be sure to cook the pasta separately and add it to the soup at the end to avoid it becoming mushy.
5. Extra Greens
For those who love a little extra green goodness, you can add additional leafy vegetables to your soup, such as kale, arugula, or even Swiss chard. These greens will complement the spinach or escarole while bringing new flavors and textures to the dish. They also boost the nutritional value, adding more fiber and vitamins.
Conclusion
Olive Garden’s Italian Wedding Soup is a timeless, comforting dish that brings together the best of Italian flavors in a single bowl. From the tender, savory meatballs to the rich, aromatic broth, every spoonful offers a satisfying balance of tastes and textures.
Whether you’re following the classic recipe or experimenting with one of the many variations, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for any occasion, this Italian Wedding Soup will warm you up on a chilly day and make any meal feel special.
So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a delicious, homemade version of Olive Garden’s iconic soup in the comfort of your own home.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I freeze Italian Wedding Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Italian Wedding Soup! It’s best to freeze the soup without the pasta, as the noodles may become mushy when reheated. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop. If you’ve added pasta, cook fresh pasta separately and add it to the soup once it’s reheated.
2. Can I use other meats for the meatballs?
Absolutely! If you prefer a different type of meat, you can substitute the ground beef and pork with ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb. Each option will bring its own flavor to the meatballs, so feel free to experiment based on your preferences.
3. How long does Italian Wedding Soup last in the fridge?
Italian Wedding Soup will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Be sure to keep the soup in the fridge as soon as it’s cool enough to ensure freshness. If you have pasta in the soup, it may absorb some of the broth over time, so consider storing the pasta separately and adding it when reheating.
4. Can I make Italian Wedding Soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker! Simply combine the broth, vegetables, and uncooked meatballs in the slow cooker. Cook on low for about 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the spinach (or escarole) during the last 30 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking the greens.
5. How can I make the soup spicier?
If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can add red pepper flakes to the soup, either during the cooking process or right before serving. You can also mix some diced jalapeños into the meatball mixture for a spicier kick. Experiment with different amounts based on your heat preference, and feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste!
Olive Garden Italian Wedding Soup
Equipment
- 1 large mixing bowl
- 1 Large Pot (for simmering the soup)
- 1 Baking Sheet (for baking meatballs)
- 1 Large Skillet (if frying the meatballs)
- 1 Spoon or Ladle (for stirring)
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Sharp Knife (for chopping vegetables)
- Cutting Board
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1 lb Ground Beef or beef and pork mixture
- 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs
- 1 Large Egg
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese grated
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley chopped
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
For the Soup:
- 6 cups Chicken Broth low-sodium preferred
- 2 Large Carrots sliced
- 1 Onion chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 5 cups Fresh Spinach or Escarole
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil for sautéing
- 1/2 tsp Salt to taste
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese freshly grated
- 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley chopped
Instructions
Make the Meatballs:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently to combine. Form the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Prepare the Soup Base:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and carrots and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a simmer, and let it cook for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
Cook the Meatballs in the Soup:
- Add the cooked meatballs to the simmering broth. Stir gently to incorporate. Let the meatballs cook in the broth for 10 minutes, so they can absorb the flavors.
Add the Greens:
- Stir in the fresh spinach (or escarole) and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the greens are wilted and tender. Taste the broth and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Meatball Variations: You can use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or substitute with plant-based meat for a vegetarian version.
- Greens: If you prefer a more bitter flavor, use escarole instead of spinach.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well without the pasta. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When reheating, cook fresh pasta and add it when serving.
- Adding Pasta: If you want to add pasta to your soup, small pasta shapes like ditalini or acini di pepe work best. Cook the pasta separately and stir it into the soup just before serving to avoid it soaking up too much liquid.
