Instant Pot Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

There’s something truly magical about a bowl of warm, comforting soup, especially when the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp. For me, Italian Wedding Soup has always held a special place in my heart – a nostalgic dish reminiscent of cozy family gatherings and the aroma of simmering goodness filling the kitchen. However, in our busy modern lives, the thought of spending hours coaxing flavors from a traditional soup can feel daunting. That’s where the Instant Pot comes in as a true kitchen superhero. I was initially skeptical, could this pressure cooker truly capture the nuanced flavors of a slow-simmered Italian Wedding Soup? The answer, unequivocally, is YES! My first attempt at making Instant Pot Italian Wedding Soup was nothing short of a revelation. The depth of flavor achieved in a fraction of the time was astonishing. The tiny meatballs were perfectly tender, the escarole was wilted just right, and the broth was rich and savory, singing with herbaceous notes. Even my kids, who can be notoriously picky eaters, devoured it, clamoring for seconds. This Instant Pot version has become a weeknight staple in our home, a comforting and nourishing meal that comes together quickly without sacrificing any of the soul-satisfying flavors we crave. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both easy and impressive, look no further. This Instant Pot Italian Wedding Soup is about to become your new favorite too!

Ingredients for Instant Pot Italian Wedding Soup

The beauty of Italian Wedding Soup lies in its simplicity and the wonderful harmony of its components. While it might seem like a dish with many ingredients, each one plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor that make this soup so irresistible. Here’s what you’ll need to create a pot of comforting Instant Pot Italian Wedding Soup:

For the Meatballs:

• 1 pound Ground Meat Mixture: The classic choice is a blend of ground beef and ground pork (about 1/2 pound each). This combination provides a wonderful balance of flavor and texture. You can also use all ground beef, all ground pork, or even ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option. For a richer flavor, opt for ground beef with a higher fat content (like 80/20).
• 1/2 cup Italian Breadcrumbs: Italian breadcrumbs are seasoned breadcrumbs, often containing herbs like parsley, oregano, and garlic powder. They add flavor and help bind the meatballs. If you only have plain breadcrumbs, you can easily season them yourself with a pinch of dried Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Panko breadcrumbs can also be used for a slightly different texture.
• 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan cheese is essential for adding a salty, savory, and umami-rich flavor to the meatballs. Freshly grated Parmesan is always best, but pre-grated will also work in a pinch. Pecorino Romano cheese can be used as a flavorful substitute.
• 1 Large Egg: The egg acts as a binder, holding the meatball mixture together and adding moisture. Make sure your egg is fresh for the best results.
• 2 Tablespoons Chopped Fresh Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous note that complements the richness of the meat and cheese. Flat-leaf parsley (Italian parsley) is traditionally used and has a stronger flavor than curly parsley.
• 1 clove Garlic, minced: Garlic is a foundational flavor in Italian cuisine and adds a pungent aroma and taste to the meatballs. Freshly minced garlic is always preferred, but garlic powder can be substituted in a pinch (about 1/2 teaspoon).
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt: Salt is crucial for seasoning the meatballs and enhancing their flavor. Use kosher salt or sea salt for the best taste.
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle spice and depth of flavor.

For the Soup:

• 1 tablespoon Olive Oil: Olive oil is the quintessential Italian cooking oil and provides a fruity, slightly peppery base for sautéing the vegetables. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its flavor and health benefits.
• 1 medium Yellow Onion, chopped: Onion is a foundational aromatic vegetable that adds sweetness and depth to the soup base. Yellow onion is the most common choice for soups and stews.
• 2 Carrots, peeled and diced: Carrots add sweetness, color, and a touch of earthiness to the soup. Dicing them ensures they cook evenly and release their flavors into the broth.
• 2 Celery stalks, diced: Celery adds a subtle savory and slightly bitter note that balances the sweetness of the carrots and onions. It also contributes to the aromatic base of the soup.
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced: More garlic! Garlic is used both in the meatballs and the soup to build layers of flavor. Again, fresh minced is best.
• 8 cups Chicken Broth: Chicken broth forms the liquid base of the soup and provides a savory, comforting flavor. Low-sodium chicken broth is recommended to control the salt level. Homemade chicken broth will elevate the flavor even further. Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.
• 1 teaspoon Dried Italian Seasoning: Italian seasoning is a blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram. It provides a classic Italian flavor profile to the soup.
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt: Salt is essential for seasoning the soup. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed at the end.
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Black pepper enhances the flavors of the other ingredients and adds a subtle warmth.
• 1 cup Orzo Pasta: Orzo pasta is a small, rice-shaped pasta that is commonly used in Italian Wedding Soup. It cooks quickly and adds a delightful texture to the soup. Ditalini pasta or acini de pepe pasta can be used as substitutes.
• 8 ounces Escarole, roughly chopped: Escarole is a slightly bitter leafy green that is traditionally used in Italian Wedding Soup. Its bitterness balances the richness of the broth and meatballs. Spinach or endive can be used as substitutes if escarole is unavailable.
• Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese, for serving (optional): Extra Parmesan cheese, sprinkled on top of each bowl, enhances the cheesy flavor and adds a salty finish.

This detailed ingredient list ensures that you have everything you need to create a truly authentic and flavorful Instant Pot Italian Wedding Soup. Don’t be intimidated by the length of the list; most of these ingredients are pantry staples, and the process is surprisingly straightforward.

Instructions for Instant Pot Italian Wedding Soup

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the simple steps to create this comforting Instant Pot Italian Wedding Soup. The Instant Pot makes this traditionally long-simmered soup a weeknight reality!

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

1. In a medium bowl, gently combine the ground meat mixture, Italian breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped fresh parsley, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough meatballs.
2. Using a teaspoon or a small cookie scoop, roll the meat mixture into small meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter. Don’t worry about making them perfectly round; slightly rustic meatballs are perfectly fine. You should get approximately 30-40 meatballs.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics in the Instant Pot

1. Press the “Sauté” button on your Instant Pot and set it to “Normal” or “Medium” heat.
2. Add olive oil to the Instant Pot pot. Once the oil is heated, add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent, stirring occasionally. This step builds a flavorful base for the soup.
3. Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 3: Brown the Meatballs (Optional but Recommended for Flavor)

1. Optional but Highly Recommended: For a richer, deeper flavor, and to prevent the meatballs from being too soft, you can brown them lightly before pressure cooking. Push the vegetables to one side of the Instant Pot pot and add the meatballs in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot.
2. Brown the meatballs on all sides for about 2-3 minutes per batch, until lightly browned. You don’t need to cook them through at this stage. Remove the browned meatballs and set them aside on a plate.

Step 4: Pressure Cook the Soup

1. Pour the chicken broth into the Instant Pot pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot (this adds extra flavor – it’s called “deglazing”).
2. Add the dried Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to the broth.
3. Gently add the orzo pasta and the browned (or unbrowned, if skipping the browning step) meatballs to the Instant Pot pot. Make sure the pasta and meatballs are submerged in the broth.
4. Cancel the “Sauté” function. Secure the Instant Pot lid, making sure the pressure valve is set to “Sealing.”
5. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 5 minutes at high pressure.

Step 5: Quick Release and Add Greens

1. Once the cooking cycle is complete, perform a Quick Release of the pressure. Carefully turn the pressure valve to “Venting” to release the steam. Be cautious of the hot steam escaping.
2. Once the pressure is fully released and the float valve has dropped, carefully remove the Instant Pot lid.
3. Stir in the roughly chopped escarole (or spinach/endive) into the soup. The residual heat from the soup will wilt the greens in just a few minutes. If you prefer very tender greens, you can put the lid back on (without pressure) for a minute or two to allow them to wilt further.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Ladle the Instant Pot Italian Wedding Soup into bowls.
2. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
3. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of your homemade Instant Pot Italian Wedding Soup!

These step-by-step instructions make it incredibly easy to recreate this classic soup in your Instant Pot. The quick pressure cooking time ensures that you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in under an hour.

Nutrition Facts for Instant Pot Italian Wedding Soup

Understanding the nutritional content of your meals is important for maintaining a balanced diet. Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown for a serving of Instant Pot Italian Wedding Soup. Please note that these are estimations and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Serving Size: Approximately 1.5 cups of soup

Approximate Nutritional Information per Serving:

• Calories: 350-450 kcal
• Protein: 25-30 grams
• Fat: 15-20 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 5-7 grams
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8-13 grams
• Cholesterol: 80-100 mg
• Sodium: 700-900 mg (can vary depending on broth and added salt)
• Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams
  • Fiber: 3-4 grams
  • Sugar: 5-7 grams
• Vitamin A: 20-30% DV (Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 10-15% DV
• Iron: 15-20% DV
• Calcium: 10-15% DV

Important Considerations:

• Sodium Content: The sodium content can be significantly reduced by using low-sodium chicken broth and being mindful of added salt. Taste and adjust seasoning at the end.
• Fat Content: The fat content comes primarily from the ground meat. Using leaner ground meat (like ground chicken or turkey breast) can reduce the fat content.
• Vegetable Content: Italian Wedding Soup is a good source of vegetables, providing vitamins and fiber. Increasing the amount of escarole or adding other vegetables like zucchini or spinach can further boost the nutritional value.
• Calorie Variation: The calorie range reflects variations depending on the richness of the broth, the type of ground meat used, and the portion size.

This nutritional information provides a general guideline. For precise nutritional information, you can use a nutrition calculator app or website and input the specific ingredients and quantities you use in your recipe. Enjoy this nourishing and flavorful soup as part of a healthy meal plan!

Preparation Time for Instant Pot Italian Wedding Soup

One of the greatest advantages of using the Instant Pot is the significant reduction in cooking time. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation and cooking time for this Instant Pot Italian Wedding Soup:

• Prep Time: 20-25 minutes
  • This includes:
    • Preparing the meatball mixture (5-7 minutes)
    • Rolling the meatballs (10-12 minutes)
    • Chopping vegetables (5-7 minutes)
• Cook Time (Instant Pot): 5 minutes (pressure cooking) + ~10-15 minutes (time to come to pressure and release pressure)
  • The Instant Pot takes some time to come to pressure before the actual cooking time begins, and then there’s the pressure release time afterward.
• Total Time: Approximately 35-45 minutes

Comparison to Traditional Method:

Traditional Italian Wedding Soup, simmered on the stovetop, can take anywhere from 1.5 to 2.5 hours to achieve the same depth of flavor and tenderness. The Instant Pot significantly cuts down on the cooking time, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights when you crave a flavorful and comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Time-Saving Tips:

• Prep Ahead: You can prepare the meatball mixture and roll the meatballs in advance. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
• Pre-Chopped Vegetables: Using pre-chopped vegetables from the grocery store can save you a few minutes of prep time.
• Efficient Workflow: Organize your ingredients and equipment before you start cooking to streamline the process.

With its quick preparation and cooking time, this Instant Pot Italian Wedding Soup is a lifesaver for busy families and anyone who appreciates a delicious and comforting meal without the long hours of traditional cooking.

How to Serve Instant Pot Italian Wedding Soup

Italian Wedding Soup is a hearty and satisfying meal on its own, but there are many ways to enhance the dining experience and create a complete and balanced meal. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Classic Garnishes:
  • Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of Parmesan adds a salty, cheesy finish and enhances the overall flavor.
  • Chopped Fresh Parsley: Adds a touch of freshness and visual appeal.
  • Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For those who like a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick.
  • Lemon Wedges (optional): A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the soup and adds a zesty note.
• Bread for Dipping:
  • Crusty Italian Bread: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
  • Garlic Bread: Adds extra flavor and garlic goodness.
  • Focaccia: A soft and flavorful Italian flatbread that complements the soup beautifully.
  • Breadsticks: A lighter option for dipping.
• Side Salads:
  • Simple Green Salad: A light and refreshing salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a nice contrast to the richness of the soup.
  • Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad pairs well with Italian flavors.
  • Caprese Salad: A refreshing salad of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil is a light and flavorful accompaniment.
• Other Side Dishes:
  • Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts add extra nutrients and fiber to the meal.
  • Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil is a delicious and light appetizer.
  • Antipasto Platter: For a more elaborate Italian meal, serve an antipasto platter with cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables.
• Make it a Complete Meal:
  • Italian Wedding Soup is already quite hearty, but you can add a side of crusty bread and a simple salad to create a complete and satisfying meal.

Serving Occasions:

• Weeknight Family Dinner: Quick and easy to prepare in the Instant Pot, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Cozy Fall or Winter Meal: The warm and comforting flavors are ideal for colder weather.
• Casual Gatherings: Great for potlucks, casual dinners with friends, or game day gatherings.
• Lunch or Light Supper: A lighter meal option, especially when served with a side salad.

No matter how you choose to serve it, Instant Pot Italian Wedding Soup is a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish that is sure to be a hit.

Additional Tips for Perfect Instant Pot Italian Wedding Soup

To ensure your Instant Pot Italian Wedding Soup is absolutely perfect every time, here are five helpful tips:

1. Don’t Overmix the Meatball Mixture: Overmixing the meatball mixture can result in tough and dense meatballs. Mix the ingredients just until they are combined. Gently fold everything together rather than vigorously mixing. Using your hands is often the best way to gauge when the mixture is just right.
2. Brown the Meatballs for Deeper Flavor (Optional but Recommended): While you can skip browning the meatballs to save time, taking a few extra minutes to brown them in the Instant Pot before pressure cooking significantly enhances the flavor of the soup. Browning creates a Maillard reaction, which adds depth and richness that simmering alone cannot achieve. It also helps the meatballs hold their shape better during pressure cooking and prevents them from becoming overly soft.
3. Deglaze the Pot After Sautéing/Browning: After sautéing the vegetables and/or browning the meatballs, there will likely be some browned bits stuck to the bottom of the Instant Pot pot. These browned bits are packed with flavor! Deglazing the pot by pouring in the chicken broth and scraping up these bits with a spoon ensures that all that delicious flavor is incorporated into the soup.
4. Adjust Seasoning at the End: Broths can vary in sodium content, and personal preferences for saltiness differ. It’s always best to taste the soup after pressure cooking and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add salt and pepper gradually, tasting as you go, until the flavor is just right. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes to brighten or add a little kick to the flavor.
5. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Orzo pasta cooks very quickly, especially under pressure. Five minutes of pressure cooking is usually perfect for orzo to be al dente. Overcooking will result in mushy pasta. If you prefer a softer pasta, you can increase the pressure cooking time by a minute or two. If you are using a different type of pasta, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Ditalini and acini de pepe are also small and cook similarly to orzo.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a truly exceptional Instant Pot Italian Wedding Soup that your family and friends will rave about.

FAQ About Instant Pot Italian Wedding Soup

Have questions about making Instant Pot Italian Wedding Soup? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

Q1: Can I make Italian Wedding Soup without an Instant Pot?

A: Yes, absolutely! While the Instant Pot significantly speeds up the cooking process, you can definitely make Italian Wedding Soup on the stovetop. Follow the same steps for preparing the meatballs and sautéing the vegetables. Then, combine all ingredients in a large pot or Dutch oven, bring to a simmer, and cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the flavors have melded. Stovetop cooking allows for a slower simmer, which some believe enhances the depth of flavor even further.

Q2: Can I freeze Italian Wedding Soup?

A: Yes, Italian Wedding Soup freezes beautifully! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. For best results, freeze the soup without the pasta, orzo tends to get a bit mushy upon thawing. If you want to freeze with pasta, slightly undercook the orzo initially. When you are ready to serve, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator or gently reheat it from frozen on the stovetop or in the Instant Pot (using the sauté function and then simmering). If you froze without pasta, cook the orzo separately and add it to the soup when reheating.

Q3: What can I substitute for escarole in Italian Wedding Soup?

A: Escarole is the traditional green used in Italian Wedding Soup, but if you can’t find it, there are several excellent substitutes. Spinach is a popular and readily available option. Endive, chicory, or even kale can also be used. Keep in mind that spinach will wilt very quickly, while kale may require a bit longer to soften. Adjust the cooking time accordingly if using heartier greens. Each green will impart a slightly different flavor profile, but all will work well in the soup.

Q4: Can I make Italian Wedding Soup vegetarian or vegan?

A: Yes, with some modifications! To make it vegetarian, simply omit the meatballs and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. To make it vegan, you’ll also need to find a vegan substitute for Parmesan cheese in the meatball mixture (or omit it) and ensure your breadcrumbs are vegan-friendly. You can add white beans or lentils for protein in place of the meatballs. Consider adding extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers to enhance the heartiness and flavor of the vegetarian or vegan versions.

Q5: How long does Italian Wedding Soup last in the refrigerator?

A: Italian Wedding Soup will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. Like many soups, the flavors often deepen and improve after a day or two in the fridge. Ensure the soup is cooled completely before refrigerating it. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Always check for any signs of spoilage before consuming leftover soup.

Hopefully, these FAQs have answered any lingering questions you might have about making Instant Pot Italian Wedding Soup. Now, it’s time to get cooking and enjoy this comforting and delicious soup!

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