Get ready to experience the flavors of your favorite pizza in a warm and comforting bowl of Pizza Soup! This delectable creation combines the essence of a classic pizza with the heartiness of a soul-warming soup. Loaded with Italian sausage, pepperoni, and a medley of vegetables, each spoonful is a burst of flavor that will transport you to a pizzeria in the heart of Italy. Join us on this culinary adventure as we uncover the secrets to crafting a soup that pays homage to the beloved pizza.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 lb Italian sausage, bulk
- 1 (3.5-ounce) package Pepperoni
Produce
- 1 Green bell pepper, seeded and chopped (1 1/4 cup)
- 1 Onion, chopped (1 cup), medium
Canned Goods
- 2 cups Beef broth
- 1 (15-ounce) can Tomato sauce
- 1 (28-ounce) cans Tomatoes
Baking & Spices
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning, dried
Dairy
- 1 cup Mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions
- Brown the Italian Sausage:
- In a large pot, cook the bulk Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add Vegetables:
- Add chopped green bell pepper and onion to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
- Introduce the Tomatoes:
- Pour in the canned tomatoes, breaking them apart with a spoon. Include the tomato sauce and beef broth. Stir to combine.
- Season to Perfection:
- Sprinkle in the dried Italian seasoning, ensuring a well-balanced flavor profile. Stir the soup and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes.
- Incorporate Pepperoni:
- Slice or chop the pepperoni and add it to the pot. Allow it to simmer in the soup, infusing its rich flavors.
- Cheese Marvel:
- Sprinkle in mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan. Stir until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated, creating a luscious and cheesy consistency.
- Serve Hot:
- Ladle the Pizza Soup into bowls and serve it hot. Optionally, garnish with extra cheese or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Veggie Delight: Enhance the soup with additional vegetables like mushrooms, olives, or cherry tomatoes.
- Spicy Kick: If you crave heat, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs such as basil or oregano to elevate the soup’s aromatic profile.
Keto Versions
For a keto-friendly adaptation, replace the beef broth with chicken broth and ensure the tomato sauce has no added sugars. Monitor the carb content in the tomatoes and adjust accordingly.
Low Carb Version
Create a low-carb version by reducing the quantity of onion and using low-carb vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. Opt for a sugar-free tomato sauce and choose pepperoni without added sugars.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use turkey or chicken sausage instead of Italian sausage?
- A1: Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with your preferred type of sausage for a unique flavor twist.
Q2: Can I freeze Pizza Soup for later?
- A2: Yes, Pizza Soup freezes well. Store it in airtight containers for convenient future meals.
Q3: What toppings can I add for extra flavor?
- A3: Customize your soup with additional toppings such as olives, fresh basil, or a dollop of ricotta.
Q4: Is it necessary to use bulk Italian sausage?
- A4: While bulk sausage is convenient, you can use links and remove the casings if that’s what you have on hand.
Q5: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
- A5: Certainly! Brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and let it simmer on low for 4-6 hours.
Indulge in the heartwarming goodness of Pizza Soup – a culinary creation that brings the essence of your favorite pizza to a comforting bowl. This soul-satisfying soup is a celebration of flavors, combining the richness of Italian sausage, the smokiness of pepperoni, and the cheesy decadence that defines pizza. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore the keto and low-carb adaptations, each spoonful is a reminder of the joy found in a steaming bowl of homemade goodness. Share this delightful soup with friends and family, and let the aroma of pizza fill your home with warmth and culinary bliss.
