Pepper Soup Recipe
This Pepper Soup Recipe is a delightful twist on the classic Italian stuffed peppers. It combines the comforting flavors of juicy sausage, sweet bell peppers, and zesty tomatoes into a hearty soup that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for an easy weeknight meal, this one-pot wonder delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. Plus, it’s versatile enough to use whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it an ideal recipe for leftover ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This soup cooks in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich Flavor: The blend of Italian seasonings and fresh ingredients creates a comforting and robust taste.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize it with your choice of meats and vegetables.
- One-Pot Meal: Enjoy easy cleanup with this simple one-pot preparation method.
- Freezable: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for a quick meal later.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools to make your Pepper Soup Recipe seamlessly. Having everything ready will ensure a smooth cooking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Chopping board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven: This allows you to cook all the ingredients in one vessel, enhancing flavors while simplifying cleanup.
- Chopping board: A stable surface is key for safely cutting your vegetables and meat.
- Sharp knife: Helps you chop ingredients quickly and efficiently, saving you time in preparation.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. hot Italian sausage (may sub lean ground beef/turkey – see notes)
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped (or half large)
- 1 red bell pepper, 1/2-inch chop
- 1 green bell pepper, 1/2-inch chop
- 4-6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/8-1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes, no salt/seasonings added
- 1 14.5 oz. can fire roasted diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 3/4 cup uncooked long grain white rice (see notes for options)
- 1 TBS EACH fresh chopped basil, oregano, parsley (or 1 tsp EACH dried)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 6 cups low sodium beef broth
- 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Freshly shredded mozzarella for serving
How to Make Pepper Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage and Onions
Heat a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add the hot Italian sausage and chopped onions.
Cook for about four minutes, breaking up the sausage as it browns.
Step 2: Add Peppers and Garlic
Once the sausage is browned:
Stir in the chopped red and green bell peppers along with minced garlic and red pepper flakes.
Sauté for an additional two to three minutes until the vegetables are tender.
Step 3: Combine Remaining Ingredients
Add all remaining soup ingredients except cheeses:
Stir well to combine everything evenly.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a boil:
Once boiling, reduce heat to low.
Allow it to simmer covered for about eight to twelve minutes until rice is cooked through.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese
Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese:
Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
If you prefer a thinner soup, add extra broth as needed.
Step 6: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls:
Top each bowl with freshly shredded mozzarella before serving. Enjoy!
With its wonderful blend of flavors, this Pepper Soup Recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home!
How to Serve Pepper Soup Recipe
Serving your Pepper Soup is as delightful as making it. This comforting dish can be enjoyed in various ways, enhancing its flavors and making each meal a unique experience.
With Crusty Bread
- A slice of warm, crusty bread pairs perfectly with the soup, allowing you to soak up every last drop of the savory broth.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the flavor profile, adding a pop of freshness that complements the rich soup.
Accompanied by Cheese
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or a dollop of sour cream on top for a creamy texture and extra indulgence.
On a Bed of Rice
- For a heartier meal, serve the soup over a scoop of cooked rice, perfectly absorbing the zesty flavors.
With a Side Salad
- A light Caesar or garden salad offers a refreshing contrast to the rich soup, balancing your meal nicely.
Chilled for Summer Days
- Enjoy this soup chilled during warmer months for a refreshing twist that still retains its delicious flavors.
How to Perfect Pepper Soup Recipe
To make your Pepper Soup truly standout, consider these helpful tips that will enhance its taste and texture.
- Use quality sausage: Choosing high-quality Italian sausage can make all the difference in flavor and richness.
- Adjust spice levels: Feel free to modify the amount of red pepper flakes based on your heat preference. You can always add more but can’t take it out!
- Fresh vegetables: Use fresh bell peppers and herbs for the best flavor; they brighten up the dish significantly.
- Simmer longer: Letting your soup simmer longer allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep an eye on the rice!
- Add variety: Don’t hesitate to throw in other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and taste.
- Store properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge and enjoy them within three days.
Best Side Dishes for Pepper Soup Recipe
Complementing your Pepper Soup with a side dish can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Bread: This classic choice is perfect for dipping into your hearty soup.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing provides a refreshing crunch alongside your warm soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add both color and nutrition to your meal.
- Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad with vinaigrette helps balance out the warmth of pepper soup.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful contrast to the spicy flavors of the soup.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A gooey grilled cheese is always a hit and can be dunked into your soup for extra comfort.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs serve as a satisfying side that pairs well with any soup.
- Stuffed Peppers: For those who want more pepper goodness, serving stuffed peppers on the side can be an excellent choice!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Pepper Soup Recipe, avoiding common pitfalls will ensure a delicious result. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the browning: Failing to brown the sausage and onions can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always take the time to brown these ingredients properly.
- Not measuring rice: Adding too much or too little rice can alter the texture of your soup. Measure carefully for the best results.
- Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Each ingredient has its own flavor profile. Taste your soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed for balance.
- Overcooking or undercooking rice: Rice cooking times can vary based on the type used. Keep an eye on it while simmering to avoid mushy or hard grains.
- Neglecting broth quality: Using low-quality broth can diminish the overall taste of your soup. Opt for low sodium or homemade broth for better flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezing Pepper Soup Recipe
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months.
- Leave some space at the top of containers as soup expands when frozen.
Reheating Pepper Soup Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add broth if necessary to thin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Pepper Soup Recipe:
Can I use different types of meat in my Pepper Soup Recipe?
Yes! You can substitute Italian sausage with ground turkey, beef, or even plant-based alternatives for a lighter version.
How do I thicken my Pepper Soup Recipe?
If you prefer a thicker soup, consider adding more rice or blending a portion of the soup and returning it back into the pot.
Can I make this Pepper Soup Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use vegetable broth and omit the meat. You can add beans or lentils for protein instead.
What vegetables can I add to my Pepper Soup Recipe?
Feel free to customize with any veggies you have on hand such as zucchini, carrots, or corn for added nutrition and flavor!
How long does this Pepper Soup Recipe take to prepare?
The total prep time is about 15 minutes with an additional 20 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick weeknight meal!
Final Thoughts
This Pepper Soup Recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. Its comforting flavors make it perfect for any season, while customization options allow you to make it your own. Whether you’re using leftover veggies or different meats, this recipe promises a delicious meal that everyone will love!
Pepper Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Indulge in a bowl of our delectable Pepper Soup Recipe, a delightful twist on classic stuffed peppers. This heartwarming dish is packed with juicy Italian sausage, vibrant bell peppers, zesty tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, all simmered together to create a comforting, flavorful experience. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this one-pot wonder, making it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. Its versatility allows for any vegetables on hand to be included, ensuring nothing goes to waste. Serve it as a standalone meal or pair it with crusty bread for an extra touch of comfort.
Ingredients
- 1 lb hot Italian sausage (or lean ground beef/turkey)
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 4–6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can crushed tomatoes (28 oz)
- 1 can fire-roasted diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 3/4 cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 6 cups low sodium beef broth
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and shredded mozzarella for serving
Instructions
- In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, brown the sausage and onions for about four minutes.
- Add the chopped bell peppers, garlic, and red pepper flakes; sauté until tender.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, rice, broth, and herbs; mix well.
- Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer covered for 8-12 minutes until rice is cooked.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese; adjust seasoning if needed and serve topped with mozzarella.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (350g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
