This Pepperoni Pizza Soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! With tasty chunks of pepperoni, delicious cheese, and zesty tomato flavor, it’s a pizza lover’s dream come true.
You can even top it with extra cheese and crispy croutons for a fun twist. I love to enjoy it with a side of crusty bread for dipping—yum! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Onion: A small onion adds great flavor. If you’re short on time, you can substitute with shallots or even some green onions for a milder taste.
Pasta: Small pasta shapes work best in this soup. If you don’t have ditalini or elbow macaroni, try using mini shells or any small shapes available to you.
Pepperoni: Mini pepperoni slices are fun and easy! If you want to cut down on fat, turkey pepperoni is a great substitute. For a vegetarian version, try using sliced mushrooms for that meaty texture.
Cheese: Mozzarella is classic, but sharp cheddar or provolone cheese can be used for a different flavor. Just make sure to stick with something that melts well!
How Can I Make Sure My Soup Has a Great Depth of Flavor?
The key to a flavorful soup is layering your ingredients and enhancing their natural flavors. After cooking the onion, let the garlic sauté with it for just a short time to avoid bitterness.
- Use quality chicken broth for a richer taste—homemade or low-sodium versions are fantastic.
- Simmer the soup with herbs like oregano and basil. This allows the dried herbs to rehydrate and release their flavor fully.
- Don’t skip the crushed red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat! Adjust based on your preference.
Lastly, taste as you go. If the broth seems flat, a pinch of salt or dash of vinegar can brighten it right up!
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-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 cups mini pepperoni slices (or regular pepperoni cut into small pieces)
- 1 cup cooked pasta (small shapes like ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
- Optional: garlic bread or toasted baguette slices to serve
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Pepperoni Pizza Soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and an additional 20 minutes to cook. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, comforting soup perfect for any pizza lover!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook for about 4-5 minutes or until it becomes translucent. This adds a great flavor base to your soup!
2. Add Garlic:
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. You want it to smell amazing but be careful not to let it brown, as that can make it bitter.
3. Combine the Liquids:
Pour in the chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, and tomato sauce, then stir everything together to combine those lovely flavors.
4. Season the Soup:
Add the dried oregano, basil, crushed red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. This is where the magic happens as the flavors start to meld!
5. Add Pepperoni:
Stir in the mini pepperoni slices and let the soup simmer gently for about 10 minutes. This gives the soup a delicious pepperoni flavor and a nice meaty texture.
6. Stir In Pasta and Cheese:
Next, add the cooked pasta and shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and everything is wonderfully combined.
7. Taste and Adjust:
At this point, it’s always a good idea to taste your soup. If you think it needs a little more flavor, feel free to adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or herbs.
8. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle each serving with grated Parmesan cheese, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor.
9. Enjoy Your Creation!
Serve the Pepperoni Pizza Soup hot with slices of garlic bread or toasted baguette on the side for a complete meal. Enjoy every cozy bite!
Now you have a delightful and easy-to-follow recipe for Pepperoni Pizza Soup that everyone will love! 🍕
Can I Use Vegetable Broth Instead of Chicken Broth?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. It will still result in a delicious and hearty soup.
What Type of Pasta Works Best in This Soup?
Small pasta shapes like ditalini, elbow macaroni, or even mini shells are ideal for pepperoni pizza soup. They hold up well in the broth and complement the flavors perfectly!
Can I Make This Soup Spicier?
Definitely! If you love spice, feel free to add more crushed red pepper flakes or even a dash of hot sauce. For a different kick, consider adding black pepper or even chopped jalapeños!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The pasta may absorb some broth, so you can add a splash of water or broth when reheating to restore the soup’s consistency.
