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Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup

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Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup combines tender meatballs, fresh greens, and tiny pasta in a light, flavorful broth. This classic comfort food is easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef or ground pork (or a combination)
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 5 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup baby spinach or escarole
  • 3/4 cup acini di pepe or other small pasta
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for browning meatballs)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix ground meat, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning until just combined. Form into small meatballs.
  2. Optional: Brown the meatballs in a skillet with olive oil for added flavor.
  3. Place chopped carrots, celery, and onion in the bottom of the slow cooker.
  4. Layer meatballs on top of the vegetables.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and cover.
  6. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
  7. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in acini di pepe and spinach. Cover and continue cooking until pasta is tender.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

  • Use ground chicken or turkey for a lighter meatball option.
  • Swap spinach for kale, escarole, or Swiss chard.
  • Use orzo or ditalini pasta if acini di pepe is unavailable.
  • Add crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
  • Make it gluten-free by using GF breadcrumbs and pasta.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/slow-cooker-italian-wedding-soup/