Bridal Soup
Bridal Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring tender meatballs, spinach, and rich chicken broth, perfect for comforting family dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ground chuck, salt, pepper, parsley, 2 Tbsp. Parmesan cheese, and bread crumbs in a bowl.
- Form the mixture into small balls about the size of a grape and set aside.
- Bring 7-8 cups of chicken broth to a boil in a large pot.
- Add the frozen chopped spinach to the boiling broth and cook until heated through.
- Gently drop the meatballs into the boiling broth and spinach.
- Cook the soup until the meatballs are cooked through, approximately 20-30 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs.
- Gradually add the beaten eggs into the simmering soup, stirring gently to create egg ribbons.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating minced garlic or a dash of nutmeg into the meatball mixture. If you prefer, ground turkey or chicken can replace ground chuck for a lighter option. Fresh spinach can be used instead of frozen; just add it closer to serving time for optimal texture. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, especially if using low-sodium broth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Bridal Soup warm with a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan cheese and additional parsley for garnish. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad, such as Herb Garden Chicken Salad, to create a delightful meal. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside company’s comin' chicken supreme for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Bridal Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth to maintain consistency. If freezing, store in a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion, and consume within three months for best quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bridal Soup contains roughly 306 calories, with 31g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (150% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (106% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1352mg per serving (59% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Bridal Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meatballs and soup base ahead of time. Cook the meatballs and soup as directed, then cool and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove, ensuring the meatballs are heated through before adding the eggs.
What can I use instead of chicken broth?
If you prefer a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works well as a substitute for chicken broth. For a richer flavor, you can use homemade broth or add a splash of white wine while preparing the soup.
How do I know when the meatballs are cooked through?
The meatballs are done when they are no longer pink in the center and have reached an internal temperature of 160°F. You can cut one open to check for doneness, but be sure to avoid overcooking to maintain their tenderness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).