My Favorite Pizza Soup Recipe with a Dreamy Whipped Ricotta Topping

The first time I ever heard the words “pizza soup,” I have to admit, I wrinkled my nose a little. It was at a potluck, years ago, and my friend Sarah brought this huge, steaming pot of it. She swore it was the best thing since sliced bread, but I was skeptical. Soup that tastes like pizza? It sounded like something a kid would invent.

Well, one spoonful and I was eating my words, literally. It was rich, savory, and packed with all the flavors I adore on a Friday pizza night, sausage, pepperoni, peppers, and all. I was an instant convert. Of course, my mind immediately started spinning. How could I take this wonderfully comforting concept and make it my own? How could I elevate it from a simple weeknight meal to something truly special?

The answer came to me when I was thinking about my favorite kind of “fancy” pizza, the kind with dollops of creamy ricotta. That was it. A simple topping of melty mozzarella is good, but a cool, creamy, bright dollop of whipped ricotta on top of this hot, zesty soup is a game changer. It cuts through the richness and adds a layer of texture that is just divine. This pizza soup with whipped ricotta is now a staple in our home, especially when the weather starts to cool down.

It’s the perfect way to get that pizza fix without ordering delivery, and it feels a whole lot more special. I can’t wait for you to try it.

Skip to My Special Recipe!

Why This Pizza Soup Recipe Works

Pizza soup has become a darling of the internet and family kitchens for a very simple reason. It captures the universally loved flavors of pizza in a comforting, easy to eat soup form. It’s a low carb friendly way to enjoy pizza night, and it’s a one pot meal that feels both hearty and fun. Kids love it, adults love it, and it’s incredibly simple to throw together on a busy weeknight. It’s the kind of recipe that just makes sense.

Most recipes you’ll find are fantastic on their own. They combine a rich tomato base with Italian sausage, classic pizza vegetables, and a healthy dose of herbs. The finishing touch is almost always a blanket of melted mozzarella cheese, which is delicious, of course. It gives you that cheese pull we all crave and completes the pizza experience.

But my version introduces an element that truly sets it apart. The secret is the whipped ricotta topping. While the melty mozzarella provides that familiar, savory stretch, the whipped ricotta brings a whole new dimension. It’s cool and creamy, offering a beautiful contrast to the hot, robust soup. I whip it with a little heavy cream for lightness, fresh parsley for a touch of herbal freshness, and a pinch of lemon zest to make all the flavors pop.

This dollop of whipped ricotta isn’t just a garnish. It melts ever so slightly into the hot broth, creating creamy pockets throughout the soup. It cuts the acidity of the tomatoes and balances the spice of the sausage and pepperoni. This little twist transforms a fun, comforting meal into a truly memorable one. It adds a touch of elegance without any real extra effort, making this the best pizza soup you’ll ever have.

Ingredients for Pizza Soup

The beauty of this recipe is that it uses straightforward, easy to find ingredients, many of which you might already have in your pantry. But as with any simple dish, the quality of your ingredients really makes a difference. Here’s what you’ll need to make my signature pizza soup.

For the sausage, I prefer a good quality mild or hot Italian sausage from the butcher counter. The flavor is just so much better than the pre-packaged kind, and it creates a wonderful base for the soup. Same goes for the produce, fresh onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms add layers of texture and flavor that are essential. And please, use fresh garlic. It makes all the difference.

The heart of my special twist lies in the whipped ricotta topping. It’s so important to use whole milk ricotta cheese for this. It has a richer flavor and a much creamier texture than the part-skim varieties. The heavy cream helps it whip up to be light and airy, while the fresh parsley and lemon zest provide a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness of the soup. It’s a simple combination that yields spectacular results.

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb mild or hot Italian sausage
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can pizza sauce
• 4 cups beef or chicken broth
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 4 oz pepperoni slices, halved
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• For the Whipped Ricotta Topping (The Twist):
• 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
• 2 tbsp heavy cream
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• Pinch of salt

For the broth, you can use either beef or chicken. I find that beef broth lends a slightly deeper, richer flavor that complements the sausage beautifully, but chicken broth works wonderfully too. Choose a low sodium version so you can control the salt level yourself. This thoughtful selection of ingredients is what makes this pizza soup a standout dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions For Making Pizza Soup

This soup comes together in one pot, making for a wonderfully easy cooking process and even easier cleanup. I love using my large Dutch oven for this, as it holds heat so well and gives everything room to simmer and meld together. Let’s walk through the steps to creating this incredible pizza soup.

Step 1: Brown the Sausage and Sauté the Vegetables

First, heat your olive oil in the Dutch oven over medium high heat. Add the Italian sausage and use a wooden spoon or a meat chopper to break it apart as it cooks. You want to get it nicely browned and crumbly, which builds a fantastic flavor base. Once the sausage is cooked, don’t drain the fat. Add your chopped onion, bell pepper, and sliced mushrooms right into the pot. Sauté everything together for about 5 to 7 minutes. You’re looking for the vegetables to become soft and tender. Finally, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just one more minute until you can smell its wonderful aroma.

Step 2: Build the Soup Base and Simmer

Now it’s time to turn this into a soup. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, pizza sauce, and your choice of broth. Give it all a good stir to combine everything with the sausage and vegetables. Add your dried oregano, dried basil, and the red pepper flakes if you like a little kick of heat. Season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Bring the entire mixture to a lively simmer, then reduce the heat to low, pop the lid on, and let it gently bubble away for at least 20 minutes. This simmering time is crucial, it allows all those individual pizza flavors to marry into one cohesive, delicious soup.

Step 3: Prepare the Whipped Ricotta Topping

While the soup is doing its thing on the stove, you can whip up the topping that makes this recipe so special. In a small bowl, combine the whole milk ricotta, heavy cream, finely chopped fresh parsley, lemon zest, and a tiny pinch of salt. You can use a fork, a small whisk, or even a hand mixer on low speed to whip it all together. You’re aiming for a texture that’s light, fluffy, and spreadable. This shouldn’t take more than a minute or two. Set it aside until you’re ready to serve.

Step 4: Finish and Serve the Soup

After the soup has simmered and the flavors have deepened, it’s time for the final touches. Stir in the halved pepperoni slices. They only need about five minutes in the hot soup to warm through and release a little of their savory, spicy oil. Now you’re ready to serve. Ladle the hot pizza soup into bowls. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella over the top of each serving, and then finish with a big, beautiful dollop of your freshly whipped ricotta. Serve it immediately and watch everyone’s faces light up.

How To Serve Pizza Soup

Serving this pizza soup is half the fun. You can present it simply as is, and it will be absolutely delicious, but adding a few extra touches can make it a truly memorable meal. The goal is to recreate the joy and customization of a pizza night, but in soup form. A toppings bar is always a huge hit at my house, especially when we have guests or when the kids are involved.

The mozzarella and whipped ricotta are essential, but think about other classic pizza toppings. I like to set out small bowls with extra goodies so everyone can build their perfect bowl of soup. It’s interactive and ensures everyone gets exactly what they want. It’s a simple way to elevate the dining experience and make it feel more special than just another soup night.

Here are a few of my favorite serving suggestions and toppings:

• Crusty Bread or Garlic Knots: This is a must. You need something to dip into that rich, tomatoey broth. A crusty baguette, homemade garlic bread, or even some warm breadsticks are perfect for the job.
• Toppings Bar: Set out bowls of sliced black olives, extra pepperoni, grated Parmesan cheese, fresh basil leaves, and even some sautéed crumbled bacon. Let everyone customize their own bowl.
• A Simple Green Salad: To balance the richness of the soup, serve it alongside a crisp green salad tossed in a simple Italian vinaigrette. It provides a fresh, bright contrast that cleanses the palate.
• Gourmet Croutons: Instead of plain croutons, try making some cheesy garlic ones. Just toss cubes of stale bread with olive oil, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese, then bake until golden and crunchy.

No matter how you choose to serve it, the key is to have fun with it. This pizza soup is all about comfort and enjoyment, so gather your favorite pizza accompaniments and dig in. It’s a hearty meal that truly satisfies all those pizza cravings in a brand new way.

How To Store & Reuse Pizza Soup Leftovers

One of the best things about making a big pot of soup is having leftovers for the next day. I honestly think this pizza soup tastes even better on day two, after the flavors have had more time to sit and get to know each other. Storing and reheating it is incredibly simple, but there are a few little tips to make sure it’s just as good as when you first made it.

The main soup base stores beautifully. The only thing to keep in mind is the toppings. I recommend storing the soup separately from the mozzarella and the whipped ricotta. Dairy can sometimes do funny things when reheated, so it’s always best to add those fresh when you’re ready to eat. This ensures you get that perfect melty cheese and the cool, creamy ricotta every single time.

Here’s my guide to storing and enjoying your pizza soup leftovers:

• Refrigerating: Allow the soup to cool down a bit before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Store the whipped ricotta and any extra mozzarella in separate small containers.
• Freezing: This soup freezes wonderfully. Let it cool completely, then pour it into freezer safe containers or heavy duty freezer bags. Be sure to leave about an inch of space at the top for expansion. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. I do not recommend freezing the ricotta topping.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium low heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Once hot, ladle it into a bowl and add your fresh mozzarella and a dollop of ricotta.
• Reusing: Don’t be afraid to get creative with leftovers. You can use the thick soup as a hearty pasta sauce. Just toss it with some cooked rigatoni or penne and top with cheese for an instant pizza pasta bake. It’s a delicious way to give the leftovers a second life.

Properly stored, this pizza soup makes for the easiest and most delicious lunches or quick dinners throughout the week. It’s the meal that keeps on giving, and you’ll be so glad you have it waiting for you.

Substitutions & Variations For Pizza Soup

This pizza soup recipe is a fantastic starting point, but it’s also incredibly forgiving and easy to customize. Think of it as a blank pizza crust, you can add whatever toppings and flavors your family loves most. Whether you need to adapt it for dietary reasons or you just want to experiment with different flavor combinations, there are plenty of delicious possibilities.

Don’t be afraid to raid your refrigerator and use up whatever vegetables you have on hand. Zucchini, different colored bell peppers, or even some spinach stirred in at the end would be wonderful additions. You can also play around with the proteins. Ground beef, turkey, or even a plant based crumble can be used in place of the Italian sausage. The key is to keep the base flavors of tomato, garlic, and herbs intact while you make it your own.

Here are some of my favorite substitutions and variations to get you started:

• For a Vegetarian Pizza Soup: Simply omit the Italian sausage and pepperoni. To build a savory base, sauté a mix of diced zucchini, eggplant, and extra mushrooms. You can also add a can of rinsed cannellini beans for extra protein and texture. Use vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken.
• Make it a Supreme: To capture the flavor of a supreme pizza, add some sliced black olives and, if you’re feeling adventurous, a few diced banana peppers or jalapeños for a spicy, tangy kick.
• Low Carb or Keto Friendly: This soup is already quite low in carbs. To make it even more keto friendly, ensure your pizza sauce has no added sugar and serve it without the bready sides. The whipped ricotta topping is perfectly suitable.
• Different Meats: Swap the Italian sausage for ground beef, ground turkey, or even shredded chicken. For a meat lover’s version, add some crumbled cooked bacon on top when serving.
• Creamy Tomato Version: For a richer, creamier soup base, stir in about a half cup of heavy cream at the very end of the cooking process, just before you add the pepperoni. Let it warm through but don’t let it come to a boil.

Experimenting is part of the joy of cooking. Use this recipe as a guide, but feel free to put your own unique spin on it. No matter what you add, this pizza soup is sure to be a new family favorite.

5 FAQs About Pizza Soup

Here are some straightforward answers to the most common questions I receive about this pizza soup recipe.

Can I make this pizza soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. This recipe adapts beautifully to the slow cooker, which is perfect for those days when you want to come home to a house that smells amazing and a dinner that’s ready to go. To convert the recipe, you’ll still want to do the initial browning and sautéing on the stovetop. This step is crucial for developing the deep, savory flavors from the sausage and vegetables.

First, brown the sausage in a skillet, then sauté the onions, peppers, mushrooms, and garlic as directed. After that, you can transfer the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture to your slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes, pizza sauce, broth, and all the seasonings. Give it a good stir, put the lid on, and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. About 15 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the pepperoni. Then, just ladle it into bowls and add the fresh toppings as usual. The slow cooker method makes this pizza soup an even easier weeknight meal.

What is the best way to make my pizza soup thicker?

This pizza soup is designed to have a brothy, soup-like consistency. However, if you prefer a thicker, more stew-like texture, there are a couple of easy ways to achieve that. My favorite method is to create a simple cornstarch slurry. For a large pot of soup like this, you would mix about 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 3 to 4 tablespoons of cold water in a small bowl until it’s completely smooth. While the soup is simmering, slowly whisk the slurry into the pot. Continue to let it simmer for another 5 to 10 minutes, and you’ll notice it thicken up nicely.

Another option is to simply reduce the amount of broth you use. You could start with 3 cups of broth instead of 4. You can also add a tablespoon or two of tomato paste along with the crushed tomatoes and pizza sauce. Tomato paste has a very concentrated flavor and acts as a natural thickener. Finally, you can add a “hidden” thickener like a puréed can of cannellini beans, which adds body and a little extra protein without altering the classic pizza flavor.

Can I use different cheeses in my pizza soup?

Of course. While mozzarella is the classic choice for that authentic pizza-like cheese pull, you can certainly experiment with other cheeses. Think about the cheese blends you love on your actual pizza. A sprinkle of sharp, nutty Parmesan or Romano cheese on top right before serving adds a wonderful salty bite. You could also use an Italian cheese blend that includes provolone, which melts beautifully and has a slightly sharper flavor than mozzarella.

For the whipped ricotta, I strongly recommend sticking with whole milk ricotta for its creamy texture. However, you could get creative by folding in a tablespoon of grated Parmesan or a little bit of soft goat cheese into the ricotta mixture for an extra tangy flavor. The key is to choose cheeses that melt well and complement the rich, tomato-based broth of the pizza soup. Feel free to mix and match to find your perfect cheesy combination.

Is this pizza soup recipe good for meal prepping?

This pizza soup is an excellent choice for meal prep. In fact, I often make a double batch on a Sunday to have on hand for easy lunches and dinners throughout the week. The soup base itself stores and reheats perfectly, and as I mentioned, the flavors only get better over time. The best way to meal prep this is to make the entire pot of soup, excluding the pepperoni and fresh toppings.

Let the soup cool, then portion it out into individual, microwave-safe containers. You can store these in the fridge for up to 4 days. I also portion out the shredded mozzarella and the pepperoni into small separate bags or containers. I make a batch of the whipped ricotta and store it in a separate airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready for a meal, you can just grab a container of soup, heat it up, and add your fresh toppings. It’s a fantastic way to ensure you have a hearty, homemade meal ready in minutes.

What are some other topping ideas for pizza soup?

The toppings are where you can really let your personality shine. Beyond the standard mozzarella and pepperoni, the possibilities are nearly endless. I love setting up a toppings bar so everyone can customize their bowl. Some fresh basil, torn or sliced into ribbons, adds a wonderful aromatic freshness that brightens up the whole dish. A drizzle of a good quality pesto or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts can add a gourmet touch.

For those who love heat, sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of spicy chili oil can add a fantastic kick. Crumbled, crispy bacon is another crowd-pleaser that adds a salty, smoky flavor. And don’t forget about vegetables. Sliced black olives, sautéed mushrooms, or even some caramelized onions can be stirred in or sprinkled on top. Thinking outside the box with toppings is a great way to keep this pizza soup recipe exciting every time you make it.

Try These Recipes Next

If you loved this fun and comforting pizza soup, here are a few other recipes from my kitchen that I know you’ll enjoy.

• Skillet Pizza Pasta Bake: This is another fantastic one-pan meal that delivers all the pizza flavor you crave in a cheesy, hearty pasta dish.
• Cheesy Pizza Pasta Casserole: A perfect make-ahead meal for a crowd, this casserole is layered with pasta, sauce, cheese, and all your favorite pizza toppings.
• Creamy Sausage Tortellini Soup: If you love hearty, creamy soups, this one is a must-try. It’s packed with cheesy tortellini and savory sausage in a luscious, creamy broth.

I hope you give these a try and that they become new favorites in your home as well.