This fun Pepperoni Pizza Soup brings all the cheesy goodness of pizza right into a bowl! With tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni, it’s a warm hug for your taste buds.
I love how easy it is to make—just throw everything into a pot! Perfect for when pizza night gets a little too complicated. Who knew soup could be this yummy? 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This oil adds healthy fats and flavor. If you’re out, canola or vegetable oil works fine, but olive oil gives a more authentic taste.
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness and depth. You can use shallots or even leeks if you prefer a milder flavor!
Tomato Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade for the best taste. Crushed tomatoes are a good substitute if you like a chunkier texture.
Broth: Chicken broth gives a richer flavor, but vegetable broth is perfect for a vegetarian option. You can also use water, but it may lack some depth.
Pasta: Small pastas work best, but if you don’t have any, rice or even leftover pizza crust cut into pieces can add a fun twist!
Pepperoni: You can swap out pepperoni for turkey pepperoni, salami, or even chopped veggies for a healthier option!
How Can I Make Sure My Soup Is Flavorful?
Aiming for a well-seasoned and flavorful soup is a common concern. Here are a few tips to enhance your soup’s flavor:
- Start with sautéing the onions and garlic; this releases their natural sweetness.
- Don’t rush the simmering stage; give the soup at least 10 minutes to blend flavors.
- Adjust seasoning at the end! Taste before serving and add more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
- Consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar if the acidity from the tomatoes is too strong.
Enjoy making this soup, it’s a crowd-pleaser!
How to Make Delicious Pepperoni Pizza Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups tomato sauce (or crushed tomatoes)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cooked pasta (small shapes like elbow macaroni or ditalini work well)
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Crusty bread or garlic bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and delicious option for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
2. Build the Base:
Now it’s time to add the flavors! Pour in the tomato sauce and the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir in the dried oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Mix everything well and bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
3. Let It Simmer:
Allow the soup to simmer for about 10 minutes. This will help develop all those wonderful flavors just like a good pizza!
4. Add the Good Stuff:
Next, stir in the cooked pasta and sliced pepperoni. Friendly reminder: If you prefer a little bolder flavor, feel free to add more pepperoni! Let the mixture simmer for another 5 minutes, allowing everything to meld together beautifully.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Dollop the soup into bowls, and top each serving with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. For a burst of freshness, add some chopped parsley or basil on top if you like. Serve immediately with crusty bread or comforting garlic bread for dipping. Enjoy every spoonful!
This flavorful Pepperoni Pizza Soup perfectly embodies the cozy feelings of pizza night but in a delightful soup form. Enjoy this comforting dish with family and friends!
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If you prefer to use fresh tomatoes, you’ll want to blanch them first. Simply score the bottom of each tomato, place them in boiling water for about 30 seconds, then transfer to an ice bath. Peel, chop, and then add them as you would the canned tomatoes. You might need a little extra broth for the consistency.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
It’s easy to make this soup vegetarian! Just swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and you can either omit the pepperoni or replace it with a meat-free option like veggie pepperoni or sautéed mushrooms for that umami flavor!
Can I Store Leftovers, and How Should I Reheat Them?
Yes, you can store leftovers! Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave for 1-2 minutes or until nice and hot.
Can I Add Other Toppings to the Soup?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your soup with additional toppings like sliced olives, bell peppers, or crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat. Fresh basil or chopped green onions also make a great finish!