This fun Pepperoni Pizza Soup brings all the yummy flavors of pizza into a bowl! It’s packed with tasty tomato sauce, pepperoni, and cheesy goodness that makes everyday feel special.
What’s great about this soup is how quick and easy it is to whip up. I love serving it with some garlic bread on the side. Perfect for those cozy nights! 🍕😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A good choice for sautéing vegetables. If you’re looking for a substitute, canola or vegetable oil works too. I love the flavor that olive oil brings, though!
Onion: A small onion adds sweetness and depth. If you’re in a pinch, shallots or even leeks can be a great alternative. Personally, yellow or white onions are my go-to!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for that punchy flavor. Crushed or minced garlic from a jar can work in a hurry if you don’t have fresh on hand.
Mini Pasta: Ditalini is perfect, but you can use any small pasta you have, like elbow macaroni or even tortellini. I recommend not skipping this—pasta gives a cozy texture!
Pepperoni: The star of the soup! If you want a healthier option, turkey or chicken pepperoni are great substitutes. You can also use diced ham or sausage if you prefer.
Cheese: Mozzarella is the classic choice for pizza flavors. For extra pizzazz, adding provolone or even cheddar can be delicious. Consider using vegan cheese if preferred!
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from This Soup?
Building flavor from the start is key! Sautéing the onions until soft releases their natural sweetness. Then, add garlic and herbs before the liquids to create a wonderful aroma.
- Make sure the oil is hot before adding onions to get a nice golden brown color.
- Don’t rush when adding the broth and tomatoes; allow it to simmer for a bit to meld the flavors.
- When adding pasta, make sure not to overcook it; keep it al dente since it will continue cooking in the soup.
Lastly, taste often and adjust the seasonings to really elevate your soup! Enjoy your cooking journey!
How to Make Pepperoni Pizza Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup mini pasta (like ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni, chopped or halved
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped for garnish
- Crusty bread or garlic bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Pepperoni Pizza Soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish! It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy days.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until it’s soft and transparent, about 3-4 minutes. This will bring out their sweet flavor!
2. Add Seasonings:
Once the onions are softened, stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes, if you like a little heat. Cook for another minute until everything smells amazing!
3. Create the Soup Base:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, crushed tomatoes, marinara or pizza sauce, and water. Give it a good stir to mix everything together, then bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
4. Cook the Pasta:
Add the mini pasta to the soup and cook according to the package instructions, which is usually about 7-9 minutes until al dente. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t get too soft!
5. Add Pepperoni and Cheese:
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the sliced pepperoni, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan cheese. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheeses melt beautifully into the soup.
6. Season and Serve:
Take a moment to taste the soup and season with salt and pepper according to your liking. Ladle the warm soup into bowls, sprinkle with fresh chopped basil or parsley, and add extra Parmesan cheese on top.
7. Enjoy with Bread:
Serve your Pepperoni Pizza Soup hot with some crusty bread or garlic bread on the side for the perfect dipping experience. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!
This hearty and flavorful soup perfectly captures the delicious essence of a pepperoni pizza in a comforting bowl! Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While mini pasta like ditalini or elbow macaroni works great, you can substitute it with any small pasta you have on hand, such as small shells or even orzo. Just keep an eye on the cooking time!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and replace pepperoni with a plant-based alternative or even sautéed mushrooms for a hearty flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the soup, as the pasta may absorb some liquid.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove.
