Stuffed Pepper Soup
Stuffed pepper soup is a delightful way to enjoy the classic flavors of stuffed peppers in a comforting and easy-to-make soup. This hearty dish combines ground beef, fresh vegetables, and rice in a rich tomato broth, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this stuffed pepper soup satisfies all occasions with its warm flavors and simple preparation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Comfort: The combination of ground beef, bell peppers, and tomatoes creates a rich, savory broth that warms the soul.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of meat.
- One-Pot Meal: Enjoy the convenience of cooking everything in one pot, which means less cleanup!
- Leftover Friendly: The soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools on hand is essential. Below are some key utensils you’ll need to whip up this stuffed pepper soup.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven: This heavy pot retains heat well and is perfect for simmering soups evenly.
- Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware while breaking up clumps of meat.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and efficient.
Ingredients
Stuffed pepper soup is a cozy and hearty one-pot dinner loaded with ground beef, onions, bell peppers, and rice in a rustic tomato-based broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. lean ground beef
– 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided
– 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced (about 1/2 cup)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
– 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
– 2 (14.5 oz.) cans diced tomatoes
– 1 (15 oz.) can tomato sauce
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar, or to taste (optional, see notes)
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups cooked long grain white rice
– 2 tablespoons fresh Italian parsley, chopped
– Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese, for serving (optional)
How to Make Stuffed Pepper Soup
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a Dutch oven over medium heat, brown ground beef. Break up any clumps as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess grease if needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste before removing from heat and setting aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté diced onions and chopped bell peppers until they soften, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked beef to the pot. Stir in canned diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Season with Worcestershire sauce, sugar (if desired), and Italian seasoning. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if necessary.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 15–20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Add Rice
If you don’t plan on having leftovers, stir in cooked rice along with chopped parsley. Simmer until heated through for about 1–2 minutes. For leftovers, mix in parsley separately when serving.
Step 6: Serve
Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Top with shredded cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious stuffed pepper soup!
How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Soup
Stuffed pepper soup is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you prefer it on its own or with additional flavors, there are numerous serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.
Garnish with Cheese
- Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese adds a creamy texture and rich flavor that complements the soup perfectly.
Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle fresh Italian parsley or basil on top for a burst of color and freshness. This adds vibrancy to each bowl.
Serve with Bread
- Pair the soup with crusty bread or garlic bread. This creates a hearty meal that is perfect for dipping.
Add a Dollop of Sour Cream
- A spoonful of sour cream brings creaminess and tang, balancing the flavors of the soup beautifully.
Include Avocado Slices
- Adding avocado slices offers a creamy component that enhances richness and provides healthy fats.
Side Salad
- A simple green salad can lighten the meal and add freshness, making it a well-rounded dinner option.
How to Perfect Stuffed Pepper Soup
To ensure your stuffed pepper soup turns out delicious every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to minimize grease while retaining flavor.
- Fresh Vegetables: Using fresh bell peppers and onions enhances the overall taste and texture of the soup.
- Taste Before Serving: Always taste your soup before serving. Adjust seasonings as necessary for optimal flavor.
- Customize Your Rice: Feel free to use different types of rice like brown rice or quinoa for added nutrition.
- Slow Cooking Option: For a deeper flavor, consider cooking the soup in a crockpot on low for several hours.
- Make Ahead: This soup can be made ahead of time, allowing flavors to meld. Just reheat before serving.
Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Pepper Soup
Stuffed pepper soup pairs well with several side dishes that complement its flavors and textures. Here are some great options to consider:
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
- Caesar Salad: A Caesar salad offers crunch and creaminess, balancing the warmth of the soup.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread contrasts nicely with the savory notes of stuffed pepper soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrients to your meal.
- Cheesy Biscuits: Soft, cheesy biscuits provide a comforting addition alongside your hearty soup.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad brings freshness and health benefits to round out your dinner.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges add heartiness and a satisfying crunch when dipped into the soup.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad cleanses the palate between bites, enhancing your dining experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making stuffed pepper soup, even small errors can impact the final dish. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Incorrect Meat Choice: Using fatty ground beef can make your soup greasy. Opt for lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- Overcooking Vegetables: Sautéing bell peppers and onions for too long can cause them to lose their texture. Aim for a tender but still crunchy finish by cooking them just until softened.
- Skipping Seasoning: Not seasoning at each step can lead to bland soup. Always taste and adjust seasoning during cooking for the best flavor.
- Ignoring Rice Timing: Adding cooked rice too early can make it mushy. Stir in the rice just before serving to keep it perfectly textured.
- Using Low-Quality Broth: A poor-quality broth can dull the flavor of your soup. Always choose a good-quality beef broth for rich, satisfying taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover stuffed pepper soup in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish, covered, until hot throughout.
- Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
- Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about stuffed pepper soup.
What is Stuffed Pepper Soup?
Stuffed pepper soup is a hearty dish featuring ground beef, bell peppers, rice, and tomatoes simmered in a flavorful broth.
Can I make Stuffed Pepper Soup without meat?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or beans for a vegetarian version that still packs plenty of flavor.
How do I customize my Stuffed Pepper Soup?
You can add different vegetables like corn or zucchini, or spice it up with red pepper flakes or hot sauce based on your taste preferences.
What goes well with Stuffed Pepper Soup?
Serve it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal that’s both filling and delightful.
Final Thoughts
Stuffed pepper soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it according to your pantry staples or personal preferences. We encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for cozy nights or meal prepping!
Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Stuffed Pepper Soup is a delightful twist on the classic stuffed peppers, delivering all the flavors you love in a cozy, hearty bowl. This easy-to-make one-pot meal combines lean ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, and tender rice simmered in a rich tomato broth. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends, this soup is both comforting and versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins. In just 40 minutes, you can create a satisfying dish that warms the heart and soul.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cans diced tomatoes (14.5 oz each)
- 1 can tomato sauce (15 oz)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 cups cooked long-grain white rice
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess grease and season with salt and pepper.
- Add olive oil to the pot, then sauté onion and bell peppers for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Return the beef to the pot and mix in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add Worcestershire sauce, sugar (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a gentle boil; reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
- Stir in cooked rice and parsley if serving immediately; otherwise, reserve parsley for later.
- Serve hot with optional cheese on top.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
