If you have a craving for pizza but want something warm, comforting, and a bit different, this Pizza Soup Recipe is going to be your new go-to favorite. Imagine all those classic pizza flavors—spicy sausage, sweet bell peppers, tangy crushed tomatoes, melty mozzarella, and zesty Italian seasoning—coming together in a rich, hearty soup that feels like a big, delicious hug in a bowl. Perfect for cozy nights or anytime you want the joy of pizza with a comforting twist, this recipe is straightforward, satisfying, and oh-so-tasty.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Pizza Soup Recipe lies in its simple ingredients, each one playing a key role in creating layers of flavor and vibrant texture. From savory sausage to fresh basil, every item adds depth, color, and pizzazz to your bowl.
- Sausage, 1 lb crumbled: Choose a flavorful Italian sausage for that authentic pizza taste and a satisfying meaty texture.
- Onion, 1 chopped: Adds a natural sweetness and depth once sautéed.
- Garlic, 2 cloves minced: Essential for that unmistakable aromatic punch.
- Bell pepper, 1 diced: Brings a slight crunch and a splash of colorful brightness to the soup.
- Crushed tomatoes, 1 can (28 oz): The soul of the soup, providing rich tomato flavor and a hearty base.
- Chicken or vegetable broth, 3 cups: Helps thin the soup just right while adding savory undertones.
- Italian seasoning, 1 tbsp: A perfect blend of herbs to evoke the beloved pizza aroma.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple but crucial for balancing all the flavors beautifully.
- Pepperoni slices, 1 cup: Adds a spicy, slightly crispy element that screams pizza.
- Mozzarella cheese, 2 cups shredded: Melts into gooey goodness that ties the dish together.
- Fresh basil for garnish: A fresh, bright finish that lifts every spoonful.
How to Make Pizza Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat and browning the crumbled sausage until it’s fully cooked and deliciously browned. This step builds the savory foundation with that irresistible meaty flavor. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the soup from getting greasy but leave enough for richness.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables soften and release their natural sweetness, about five minutes. This smell alone will have your kitchen smelling like a pizzeria!
Step 3: Combine the Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken or vegetable broth, then stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil to marry the flavors, then reduce the heat and let it gently simmer for around 20 minutes. This simmering helps all those ingredients meld into a luscious, flavorful base.
Step 4: Add the Pepperoni and Cheese
Stir in the pepperoni slices along with half of the shredded mozzarella. Continue cooking just until the cheese melts, creating pockets of gooey, cheesy delight throughout the soup. This step turns the soup from great to absolutely crave-worthy.
Step 5: Serve with Toppings
Ladle the soup into your favorite bowls, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top, and finish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and freshness. Now you’re ready to dig into all the wonderful layers of this Pizza Soup Recipe!
How to Serve Pizza Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t be shy about topping your soup with extra mozzarella or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for an extra cheesy experience. Fresh basil leaves not only add a pop of vibrant green but also a fresh, herbaceous note that perfectly balances the richness of the soup.
Side Dishes
This pizza-inspired soup pairs wonderfully with crispy garlic bread or warm, soft dinner rolls. The bread is perfect for dipping into the cheesy, tomato-packed goodness, making each meal feel complete and indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this soup in mini bread bowls for a fun, rustic touch that doubles as a tasty edible container. Or try layering it in a clear glass bowl to showcase the colorful ingredients, tempting your guests before they even take a bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Pizza Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers even more satisfying.
Freezing
To freeze, let the soup cool completely and transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It stays fresh for up to two months. Keep in mind that fresh basil is best added after reheating to maintain its vibrant flavor and color.
Reheating
Warm your soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to help the cheese melt evenly. If it thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water to restore the perfect consistency.
FAQs
Can I make this Pizza Soup Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the sausage and pepperoni for plant-based alternatives or extra veggies like mushrooms and zucchini, and use vegetable broth to keep things fully vegetarian without losing flavor.
What type of sausage works best for the soup?
A sweet or spicy Italian sausage is ideal because it offers robust flavor that echoes classic pizza. You can choose mild or hot depending on your preferred spice level.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Fresh tomatoes can work if they’re ripe and juicy, but you’ll want to peel and crush them first. Canned crushed tomatoes are convenient and provide consistent flavor and texture, which is why they’re recommended for this recipe.
Is it possible to make this soup gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you check that your broth, sausage, and seasonings don’t contain any hidden gluten ingredients.
How spicy is this Pizza Soup Recipe?
The spice level depends on your choice of sausage and pepperoni. You can control the heat by picking mild versions or adding crushed red pepper flakes if you like more kick.
Final Thoughts
This Pizza Soup Recipe is a delightful twist on a beloved classic that brings all the comfort and flavor of pizza into a warm, cozy bowl. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or impressing friends with a pleasingly unique dish, it’s bound to become a staple. I can’t wait for you to try it, savor each bite, and share the joy that comes with a soup this delicious and heartwarming!
Print
Pizza Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This hearty Pizza Soup combines the classic flavors of pizza in a comforting, easy-to-make soup. Featuring sausage, pepperoni, melted mozzarella, and Italian seasonings simmered in a rich tomato broth, it’s the perfect cozy meal for pizza lovers craving something different.
Ingredients
Meat and Cheese
- 1 lb sausage, crumbled
- 1 cup pepperoni slices
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- Fresh basil for garnish
Liquids and Seasonings
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the sausage: In a large pot over medium heat, add the crumbled sausage and cook until fully browned. Drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
- Sauté vegetables: Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Simmer the base: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Add pepperoni and cheese: Stir in the pepperoni slices and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Cook until the cheese melts into the soup, creating a creamy texture.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top, and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting taste of pizza in a bowl.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute sausage and pepperoni with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth.
- You can adjust the spiciness by using spicy Italian sausage or adding red pepper flakes.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop.
- Adding cooked pasta or croutons can enhance the texture and heartiness of the soup.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
