I’ve always loved Italian Wedding Soup. It was one of the first dishes my Nonna taught me how to make. But one cold evening last winter, I didn’t have orzo on hand. What I did have? A bag of pillowy potato gnocchi. Shaym here, and what started as a pantry experiment turned into a full-on obsession. This Italian Wedding Soup with Gnocchi brings the same nostalgic comfort, but with a soft, chewy twist you’ll want again and again.
It’s hearty without being heavy, and the gnocchi gives it just enough starchy richness to make it feel indulgent. The meatballs are juicy, the broth is savory, and every spoonful feels like a warm hug.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
- 1/2 lb ground chicken or turkey
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
- Salt & pepper to taste
For the Soup:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 3 cups chopped spinach or escarole
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Extra parmesan for topping
Instructions
- Mix and roll. In a bowl, combine all meatball ingredients. Roll into small bite-sized balls (about ¾ inch).
- Brown the meatballs. In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the meatballs and brown for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Build the broth. In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Add chicken broth and water, bring to a boil.
- Simmer and add gnocchi. Reduce to a simmer, return the meatballs to the pot, and cook for 10–12 minutes. Stir in gnocchi and cook for another 4–5 minutes, until they float.
- Add the greens. Toss in chopped spinach and simmer for 2 more minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve hot. Ladle into bowls, top with grated parmesan, and enjoy!
Shaym’s Tips
- Want to make this ahead? Cook the meatballs and store them in the fridge until ready to simmer.
- Swap spinach for kale if you like a heartier green.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving for brightness.
Make It a Full Italian Night
If you’re already going the Italian route, why not go all in? Pair your bowl of soup with a slice of truly authentic flavor from our What Makes Authentic Italian Pizza Unique article, perfect for pizza night inspiration.
For a protein-packed side, our crisp and juicy Chicken Cutlets Recipe adds crunch and richness that balances the soft gnocchi in the soup. Or if you’re in the mood for another comforting classic, don’t miss our Beef and Noodles Recipe – A Comforting Classic that’s just as soul-warming.
Whether you’re serving family or batch-cooking for the week, this Italian Wedding Soup with Gnocchi delivers comfort with an elevated twist. It’s quick, satisfying, and just feels like home.