This Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup is cozy, flavorful, and full of classic comfort. Juicy Italian sausage meatballs, tender pasta, and fresh spinach come together in a rich, savory broth that's both hearty and light. It's the kind of meal that feels homemade without all the extra effort.
I love a soup that basically cooks itself, and this one tastes like it came straight from an Italian grandma's kitchen. It's warm, filling, and the mini meatballs make it so cute and cozy. Perfect for lazy Sundays or chilly weeknights.
You'll love this recipe because it's wholesome, comforting, and made with simple ingredients you probably already have. Just toss everything in the slow cooker, and dinner's ready when you are. It's meal prep-friendly, budget-friendly, and totally "soup season" approved.
Things to Know Before Making Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup
- Roll the meatballs small (around 1 inch) so they cook evenly and stay tender.
- Browning the sausage first adds that extra layer of flavor and keeps them from falling apart.
- Add the pasta near the end so it doesn't get mushy.
- Stir in the spinach right before serving for the prettiest color and freshest taste.
There's something about a bowl of soup that feels like a cozy night in, and this one hits every note: savory, rich, and packed with flavor. It's a total comfort meal that's as easy as it looks.
If you're into easy crockpot recipes, you'll love this Slow Cooker French Onion Chicken and Rice, Crockpot Slow Cooker Soy Honey Garlic Chicken, and Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan.
Ingredients You'll Need
- Ground Italian sausage: Adds richness and spice to the soup.
- Carrots, celery, onion, and garlic: The classic flavor base that makes every soup cozy and aromatic.
- Chicken broth: Creates a flavorful, comforting soup base.
- Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper: The perfect balance of herbs and seasoning.
- Acini di pepe pasta: Tiny pasta that makes this soup so satisfying without being heavy.
- Fresh spinach: Adds color, nutrients, and that final fresh touch.
- Parmesan cheese: Brings the creamy, savory finish that ties everything together.
Scroll to the recipe card for exact measurements.
How to Make Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup
Step 1: Roll the Italian sausage into small, bite-sized meatballs (about 1 inch each). You'll get around 20-24 mini meatballs.
Step 2: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the meatballs on all sides. They don't need to cook through completely, just enough to add flavor. Transfer to your slow cooker.
Step 3: Add the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Step 4: Cover and cook on LOW for 5-6 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and the meatballs are cooked through.
Step 5: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the acini di pepe pasta. Cook until the pasta is tender.
Step 6: Add the spinach and Parmesan cheese, stirring gently until the spinach wilts and the soup looks rich and cozy. Serve warm with extra Parmesan on top.
Substitutions and Variations
- Swap Italian sausage for ground turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version.
- Use orzo, ditalini, or small shells instead of acini di pepe.
- Replace spinach with kale or escarole for a heartier green.
- Try hot Italian sausage and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup
Serve this soup with a slice of garlic bread, a simple Caesar salad, or a side of crusty baguette to soak up every last bit of the broth.
Storage and Freezing
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to loosen it up. To freeze, do so before adding the pasta and spinach, then add them fresh when reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen meatballs instead of fresh?
Yes! Use frozen fully cooked meatballs. Add them directly to the slow cooker with the broth and veggies.
Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?
Absolutely. Simmer everything in a large pot over medium-low heat for about 45 minutes, then add the pasta and spinach near the end.
What pasta works best if I can't find acini di pepe?
Ditalini, orzo, or small shells are great substitutes. Just adjust cooking time slightly so they stay al dente.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes! It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or make-ahead lunches.
More Easy Slow Cooker Recipes
- Easy Slow Cooker Soy Spareribs
- Easy Slow Cooker Taco Soup
- Slow Cooker Lentil and Ham Soup
- Slow Cooker Million Dollar Tortellini
- Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing
- Crockpot Slow Cooker Rump Roast
- Easy Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef
Easy Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup
This Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup is cozy, hearty, and full of flavor. Mini meatballs, acini di pepe pasta, and spinach simmer in a rich broth for the ultimate comfort meal. Perfect for cold days, meal prep, or whenever you want a simple, homemade soup that feels like a warm hug.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup uncooked acini di pepe pasta
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
Instructions
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Roll the Italian sausage into small, bite-sized meatballs (about 1 inch each). You should get around 20-24 mini meatballs.
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In a skillet over medium heat add the sausage meatballs and brown on all sides (they don't need to be cooked through). Transfer to the slow cooker.
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Add vegetables and broth: Add carrots, celery, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker. Pour in chicken broth, then stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
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Cover and cook on LOW for 5-6 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the vegetables are tender and meatballs are fully cooked.
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About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the acini di pepe pasta. Cover and cook until pasta is tender.
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Add spinach and finish: Stir in fresh spinach and Parmesan cheese. Let cook 5-10 minutes, just until spinach wilts.
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Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls and top with extra Parmesan.
Recipe Notes
• Brown your meatballs first for the best flavor.
• Add pasta near the end so it stays tender.
• Stir in spinach just before serving for that perfect green color.
• Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top-it makes everything better.
• Freeze before adding pasta and spinach for best results.
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