Comforting Instant Pot Italian Wedding Soup Recipe: A Quick and Flavorful Meal

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of Italian wedding soup, especially when it’s made in an Instant Pot for a quick and easy meal. This classic soup is known for its flavorful broth, tender meatballs, and the perfect balance of leafy greens and pasta. Despite its name, Italian wedding soup isn't served at weddings; the term “wedding” comes from the Italian phrase “minestra maritata,” which means "married soup" – a nod to the beautiful marriage of ingredients that make up this hearty dish.

Why You'll Love This Instant Pot Italian Wedding Soup

The Instant Pot brings convenience to this traditional recipe, reducing the cooking time while enhancing the flavors. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare this soup, even on a busy weeknight. The meatballs come out perfectly tender, the broth is richly seasoned, and the pasta adds a delightful texture that makes each bite satisfying. Plus, the addition of leafy greens like spinach or escarole makes this dish as nutritious as it is delicious. It’s the kind of meal that brings comfort, warmth, and a touch of Italian tradition right to your table.

Recipe Overview

Recipe Name: Instant Pot Italian Wedding Soup

Description: A comforting and flavorful Italian wedding soup made in the Instant Pot with tender meatballs, acini di pepe pasta, and leafy greens. This soup is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy lunch.

Ingredients List

• For the Meatballs:
• 1/2 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the Soup:
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup acini di pepe pasta (or other small pasta)
• 4 cups fresh spinach or escarole, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, for serving

Substitutions: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for the meatballs if desired. For a dairy-free option, omit the Parmesan cheese.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Meatballs: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Roll the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter, and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Set the Instant Pot to the "Sauté" function and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened, then add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the Broth and Meatballs: Pour the chicken broth into the Instant Pot and stir well. Carefully add the meatballs, making sure they are submerged in the broth. Turn off the "Sauté" function.
4. Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to "Pressure Cook" on high for 8 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release to release the remaining pressure.
5. Add the Pasta and Greens: Open the lid and set the Instant Pot back to the "Sauté" function. Stir in the acini di pepe pasta and chopped spinach. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the pasta is tender. Season the soup with additional salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread on the side for dipping.

Tips: To ensure the meatballs are tender, avoid overmixing the ingredients. If you prefer a thicker soup, add an extra tablespoon of breadcrumbs to the meatball mixture.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes (including pressure build-up and release)
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Serving Suggestions

This Instant Pot Italian wedding soup serves about 6 bowls, making it ideal for a family dinner or meal prep for the week. Serve with a slice of crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping. You can also pair the soup with a light salad, such as a simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, for a balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pasta will absorb some of the broth as it sits, so you may need to add extra broth when reheating. To reheat, warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. The soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months. If freezing, it's best to add the pasta after thawing to avoid mushy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen meatballs?

Yes, you can use frozen meatballs in this recipe. Simply add them to the Instant Pot with the broth and pressure cook as instructed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if the meatballs are large.

What can I use instead of acini di pepe pasta?

If you can’t find acini di pepe, you can substitute with other small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini. Pearl couscous can also work as an alternative.

Can I make this soup on the stovetop?

Yes, to make this soup on the stovetop, follow the same steps, but simmer the meatballs in the broth for about 20-25 minutes. Add the pasta and greens during the last 5-10 minutes of cooking.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Italian wedding soup is the perfect combination of convenience and traditional flavor. This recipe simplifies the classic dish without sacrificing the rich, comforting taste that makes it a favorite. Whether you're new to cooking with an Instant Pot or just looking for a quick and satisfying meal, this Italian wedding soup is a great choice. It’s versatile, delicious, and sure to become a go-to recipe in your household. Give it a try and share your thoughts in the comments below. Buon appetito!