This Pepperoni Pizza Soup brings all the yummy flavors of pizza into a warm and cozy bowl! With tasty pepperoni, cheesy goodness, and a zesty tomato base, it’s a fun twist on a classic dish.
Who knew soup could taste like pizza? I love dunking crispy bread sticks in it for that extra crunch. It’s like having pizza and soup at the same time—total win! 🍕🧡
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A great base for sautéing veggies. If you’re looking for substitutions, you can use vegetable oil or canola oil, but olive oil adds a lovely flavor.
Onion: A small onion works best for flavor without overpowering. You can use shallots or leeks as alternatives too.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is a must for that aromatic kick. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch, but use less since it’s more concentrated.
Chicken Broth: This adds depth to the soup. If you’re vegetarian, vegetable broth is a great substitute. You could also use beef broth for a different flavor.
Diced & Tomato Sauce: These are key for the pizza-like taste. Canned diced tomatoes are convenient, but if you prefer fresh tomatoes, about 4 cups chopped should suffice.
Pepperoni: The star here! If avoiding meat, try a vegetarian pepperoni or even mushrooms for a hearty texture.
Cheese: Mozzarella is classic for its meltiness. You can use cheddar for a sharper flavor or even vegan cheese for a dairy-free option.
How Do I Make Sure My Soup Has Great Flavor?
A key to delicious soup is letting the flavors meld together. Here are the steps to follow:
- Start by cooking onions until translucent to build a flavorful base.
- After adding the liquid ingredients, allow the soup to boil, then simmer. This helps all the spices and flavors blend.
- Don’t rush when adding heavy cream; stir well to achieve a uniform creamy texture.
Lastly, taste as you go! Adjusting seasonings to your preference is key to a perfect bowl. Enjoy your cooking! 🍲
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 chicken broth
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sliced pepperoni
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil, for garnish
- Garlic bread or toasted crusty bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Pepperoni Pizza Soup will take about 10 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to cook, giving you a total of approximately 40 minutes to enjoy a comforting bowl of soup!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This will form the delicious base of your soup!
2. Add Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the pot. Cook for another minute until you can smell that fragrant garlic aroma. Be careful not to burn it!
3. Add the Broth and Tomatoes:
Now it’s time to pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (including their juices), and tomato sauce. Stir everything together so all those flavors mix nicely.
4. Season the Soup:
Add the dried oregano, dried basil, crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat, and some salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes. This will help all those wonderful flavors come together.
5. Make it Creamy:
After the soup has simmered, stir in the heavy cream for a rich and creamy texture. Mix well to combine!
6. Add the Pepperoni:
Throw in the sliced pepperoni and let it cook in the soup for another 5 minutes. This will infuse the flavors throughout the soup and make it even tastier!
7. Stir in the Cheeses:
Next, add the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the soup is beautifully creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls. For a lovely finishing touch, garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil. Serve it hot with garlic bread or crunchy toasted bread on the side for a delightful dipping experience.
Enjoy your comforting bowl of Pepperoni Pizza Soup that captures all the classic pizza flavors in a delicious warm soup! 🍕🥣
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat or Make It Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute pepperoni with any cooked sausage or even diced ham for a different flavor. For a vegetarian option, try using vegetarian pepperoni or mushrooms for a hearty texture.
How Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating. You may need to add a splash of broth or cream for a fresh consistency.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup! Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Creamy soups may change texture slightly, but stirring well will help restore creaminess.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder soup, simply omit the crushed red pepper flakes. If you love heat, feel free to add more or even some diced jalapeños or hot sauce to kick things up a notch!
