The ultimate comfort food: create italian wedding soup in your crock pot with effortless ease

Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of Italian wedding soup, now made effortlessly in the convenience of your crock pot. This classic Italian dish, traditionally served at weddings, is a delightful blend of savory meatballs, tender vegetables, and a rich broth that will tantalize your taste buds. With our easy-to-follow recipe, you can recreate this culinary masterpiece in the comfort of your own home.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can chicken broth
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced carrots
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced celery
• 1/2 cup small pasta (such as acini di pepe or orzo)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meatballs:

• In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, onion, parsley, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
• Roll the mixture into 1-inch meatballs.

2. Create the Soup Base:

• Place the meatballs, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, carrots, and celery into the crock pot.

3. Cook on Low:

• Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

4. Add Pasta:

• About 30 minutes before serving, add the small pasta to the soup. Cook until the pasta is al dente, according to package directions.

5. Season and Garnish:

• Season the soup to taste with additional salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning if desired. Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips for the Perfect Italian Wedding Soup:

• Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Don’t overwork the meatball mixture, as this can result in tough meatballs.
• Cook the soup on low and slow for maximum flavor development.
• If you don’t have small pasta, you can substitute with rice or barley.
• Serve the soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Variations on the Classic:

• Add spinach or kale for a boost of greens.
• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Top the soup with a dollop of ricotta cheese for a creamy touch.

Benefits of Italian Wedding Soup:

• Rich in protein and vegetables, making it a nutritious meal.
• Comforting and flavorful, perfect for a cold winter day.
• Easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time.

Top Questions Asked

Q: Can I make this soup in advance?
A: Yes, the soup can be made up to 3 days in advance. Simply store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, the soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing. When ready to serve, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator and reheat.

Q: What can I do if my soup is too thick?
A: If the soup is too thick, add a little more chicken broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.