This Pepperoni Pizza Soup is like your favorite pizza got cozy in a bowl! With tasty pepperoni, zesty tomatoes, and gooey cheese, it’s a hug in soup form. 🍕
It’s super easy to make and perfect for chilly days. I love to top it with extra cheese and some crunchy bread on the side. Trust me, you’ll want seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds great flavor. If you’re out, any cooking oil will work, but I suggest using canola or vegetable oil. Alternatively, butter can add a nice richness.
Onion: I like using yellow onion for its mild flavor. You can also use shallots for a touch of sweetness or white onion if that’s what you have on hand.
Pasta: Mini pasta shapes like ditalini are perfect here, but you can swap it for any small pasta such as macaroni or even use rice for a different texture. Just adjust cooking times as needed!
Pepperoni: If you prefer turkey pepperoni for a leaner option, go for it! You can also leave it out entirely for a vegetarian soup, or use thick-cut bacon for a smoky flavor.
Cheese: Mozzarella is a classic choice, but feel free to mix in cheddar or fontina for a flavor twist. I sometimes add extra mozzarella for a cheesy soup!
How Do I Make Sure My Soup Has Great Flavor?
The key to a flavorful soup lies in sautéing! Start by heating your olive oil and gently cooking the onion until it’s soft and translucent. This process releases natural sugars, enhancing the soup’s taste.
- Cook onions on medium heat to avoid burning. Patience here pays off!
- Add garlic and sauté briefly; it cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it!
Once you add the broth and tomatoes, let the soup simmer. Simmering allows the flavors to meld nicely. Don’t skip this step!
How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup mini pepperoni slices (or regular pepperoni sliced thin)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow)
- Fresh or dried Italian seasoning for garnish
- Crusty bread or baguette slices, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Pepperoni Pizza Soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 45 minutes until you can enjoy your warm, cozy bowl of soup!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook it until it’s tender and translucent, about 5 minutes. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn! Then, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for just 1 minute. You want it fragrant but not browned.
2. Build the Soup Base:
Pour in the chicken broth, then add the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Season with salt and pepper, and stir everything together until well mixed.
3. Let It Simmer:
Bring your lovely soup to a gentle boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This is when all those delicious flavors come together beautifully!
4. Add Pepperoni and Pasta:
Mix in the mini pepperoni slices and uncooked pasta. Allow the soup to simmer again until the pasta is cooked and tender, which should take about 8 to 10 minutes.
5. Season and Serve:
Give the soup a taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to your preference. When you’re ready to serve, ladle the soup into bowls. Top each bowl with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and sprinkle with some Italian seasoning for that finishing touch.
6. Enjoy!
Serve your hearty pepperoni pizza soup hot alongside crusty bread or buttery baguette slices for dipping. Enjoy every comforting spoonful that reminds you of your favorite pizza!
Can I Use a Different Type of Broth?
Absolutely! While chicken broth gives a great flavor, you can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, or beef broth for a heartier taste. Just keep in mind that it may alter the final flavor slightly.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the soup and let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
What Can I Substitute for Mini Pasta?
If you don’t have mini pasta on hand, you can swap it out for any small pasta shape like macaroni or even rice. If using rice, adjust the cooking time as it may take longer to cook than pasta.
How Can I Make This Soup Spicier?
If you like a bit more heat, consider adding more crushed red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce when you add the tomatoes. You can also include sliced jalapeños or spicy Italian sausage for an extra kick!
