This Pepperoni Pizza Soup is a fun twist on your favorite pizza! Packed with tasty pepperoni, gooey cheese, and flavorful tomato goodness, it’s perfect for cozy nights in.
I love how you can enjoy pizza in a whole new way! Just grab some crusty bread for dipping, and you’ve got a delicious meal that warms your belly and your heart! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This oil adds a nice richness to the soup. If you don’t have it, you can use vegetable or canola oil. Some prefer butter for a different flavor, but keep in mind it can change the soup’s overall taste.
Onion: A small onion gives depth to the flavor. If you’re not a fan, you can skip it or use shallots as a milder alternative. Green onions could also work for a fresh twist!
Tomato Sauce: Seasoned or marinara sauce gives the best flavor, but canned tomato puree or crushed tomatoes can be great substitutes. You can also mix in diced tomatoes for added texture.
Pasta: Small pasta shapes like ditalini or elbows are perfect here, but you can swap in anything you like—macaroni, fusilli, or even a gluten-free pasta option!
Pepperoni: For a healthier option, turkey pepperoni is a great substitute. If you’re vegetarian, try chopped mushrooms or even some sautéed bell peppers for that pizza vibe!
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from This Soup?
The secret to making this soup super tasty lies in the simmering process. This gives time for the flavors to blend beautifully. Here’s what to focus on:
- Start with a good sauté: Heating the onion until it’s translucent and adding garlic builds a flavorful base. Don’t rush this step!
- Season wisely: Ensure you add your dried herbs like oregano and basil during the simmering stage. This will unlock their full flavors.
- Simmer well: After adding all your ingredients, allow them to cook on medium-low for 10-15 minutes. This melds all the tastes beautifully in each spoonful.
- Final touches: The melted mozzarella on top when serving adds a warm, gooey texture that makes every bite delightful!
These tips will help you serve up a comforting bowl that tastes fantastic. Enjoy your pizza in soup form! 🍲🍕
How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups tomato sauce (preferably seasoned or marinara)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1 cup cooked pasta (small shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni)
For Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh or dried parsley or basil for garnish
For Serving:
- French bread or garlic bread
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Pepperoni Pizza Soup will take about 10-15 minutes to prep and roughly 25 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at around 35-40 minutes before you can dig into this deliciously cozy soup!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once warmed up, add the chopped onion and cook it until it becomes translucent, which will take about 3-4 minutes. This will help build a solid flavor base for your soup!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook for another minute. You want to let the garlic become fragrant but not browned, as it can turn bitter.
3. Mix in Tomato Sauce and Broth:
Pour the tomato sauce and chicken or vegetable broth into the pot. Give everything a good stir to combine the flavors.
4. Season the Soup:
Now it’s time to add the dried oregano, dried basil, crushed red pepper flakes if you’re feeling a bit spicy, along with salt and pepper to taste. Bring everything to a simmer over medium-high heat; your kitchen will start smelling amazing!
5. Let It Simmer:
As soon as it’s simmering, reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the soup cook for about 10-15 minutes, which allows the various flavors to meld together harmoniously.
6. Add Pepperoni and Pasta:
Once the soup is ready, stir in the sliced pepperoni and the cooked pasta. Gently mix and cook for another 5 minutes, just to heat everything through.
7. Serve with Cheese:
When you’re ready, ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top each serving with a generous handful of shredded mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. You can never have too much cheese!
8. Garnish and Enjoy!
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh or dried parsley or basil for a touch of color and flavor. Serve the soup hot alongside slices of French bread or garlic bread for some delicious dipping.
Enjoy your cozy and comforting Pepperoni Pizza Soup that brings all the deliciousness of pizza right to your bowl!
Can I Use Pre-Cooked or Frozen Chicken?
While this recipe features pepperoni, you can absolutely add pre-cooked chicken for extra protein! If using frozen chicken, make sure to fully thaw it before adding to the soup.
How Should I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Leave the cheese off until you’re ready to reheat it to maintain that fresh texture. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the pepperoni and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You could also add more veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to keep it hearty and flavorful.
What Other Toppings Can I Use?
Feel free to customize the soup with additional toppings! Some great options include crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, or a dollop of pesto. You can also try different cheeses like cheddar or feta for a twist!
