This creamy pizza soup is a warm, comforting meal that brings all the familiar flavors of pizza into one cozy bowl. It combines Italian sausage, ground beef, mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, tomatoes, and Italian seasoning in a rich broth.
A little cream cheese and heavy cream make the soup smooth and creamy, while mozzarella or Parmesan on top adds an extra cheesy finish. It is easy to prepare and works well for both a quick dinner and meal prep.
Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1 lb ground beef
- 8 oz mushrooms, chopped
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 cup chopped zucchini
- 3 cups spinach
- ½ cup chopped bell pepper
For the Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 1 container (32 oz) beef broth
For the Creamy Finish
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup heavy cream
Optional Toppings
- Shredded mozzarella
- Grated Parmesan
Instant Pot Method
1. Brown the Meat
Set the Instant Pot to Sauté. Lightly spray the bottom and add the Italian sausage and ground beef. Cook until the meat is browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
2. Add the Vegetables and Soup Base
Turn off the Sauté setting. Add the mushrooms, garlic, zucchini, spinach, bell pepper, Italian seasoning, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Stir everything together.
3. Pressure Cook
Secure the lid and move the valve to Sealing. Select Manual/Pressure Cook and cook for 15 minutes.
When the cooking time is finished, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5–10 minutes. Carefully release any remaining pressure.
4. Make It Creamy
Add the softened cream cheese and heavy cream. Stir until the cream cheese has completely melted and the soup becomes smooth and creamy.
5. Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and top with shredded mozzarella or Parmesan if desired.
Stovetop Method
1. Cook the Meat
Place a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking the meat into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
2. Cook the Vegetables
Add the mushrooms, garlic, zucchini, and bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Simmer the Soup
Add the beef broth, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 25 minutes, stirring from time to time.
4. Add the Creamy Ingredients
Stir in the cream cheese and heavy cream. Add the spinach and cook until it wilts and the soup is smooth and creamy.
Helpful Tips
- The soup may look like it has less liquid at first, but the vegetables release additional moisture as they cook.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened before adding it so it blends more easily.
- Stir the cream cheese in gradually for a smoother texture.
- If you prefer a thinner soup, add a little extra beef broth.
- For a stronger pizza flavor, add extra Italian seasoning or your favorite pizza toppings.
Easy Variations
Extra Pizza Flavor
Add sliced pepperoni just before serving for an even stronger pizza-inspired taste.
Dairy-Free
Leave out the cream cheese and heavy cream. The soup will have a thinner consistency but will still be flavorful.
Spicy Pizza Soup
Add red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage if you enjoy a little extra heat.
Storage and Meal Prep
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days.
When reheating, warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir well before serving.
This soup is also a convenient meal-prep option. The flavors can become even better after sitting overnight.
Serving Ideas
Serve the soup on its own for a simple meal, or add a little shredded mozzarella or Parmesan on top. You can also serve it with a small side salad or your favorite low-carb side.
Nutrition Information
Approximate nutrition per serving:
- Calories: 327 kcal
- Protein: 28.4 g
- Fat: 19.9 g
- Carbohydrates: 9 g
- Fiber: 1.9 g
- Net Carbs: ~7.1 g
- Serving Size: 1½ cups
Final Thoughts
Creamy pizza soup is a simple way to enjoy familiar pizza flavors in a warm and comforting soup. The combination of seasoned meat, vegetables, tomatoes, and creamy cheese makes it filling and flavorful without requiring complicated preparation.
Whether you make it in the Instant Pot or on the stovetop, it is a practical recipe for a busy weeknight and makes a great leftover meal too.
