This 30-Minute Stuffed Pepper Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines all the classic flavors of stuffed peppers in a comforting soup form. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is quick to prepare yet delivers a delicious and satisfying meal. Featuring lean ground beef, bell peppers, fire-roasted tomatoes, and cooked white rice, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (28 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes, undrained
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
- Chop Vegetables: Chop the yellow onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper into small, even pieces.
- Mince Garlic: Mince the garlic cloves finely.
Step 2: Cook the Beef and Vegetables
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Sauté Onion: Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it begins to soften.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Peppers and Seasoning
- Add Bell Peppers: Add the chopped red and green bell peppers to the pot. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
- Season: Stir in the Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth
- Tomato Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce and fire-roasted diced tomatoes with their juices.
- Beef Broth: Add the beef broth and stir to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Add Rice and Season
- Add Cooked Rice: Stir in the cooked white rice and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the rice is heated through.
- Season to Taste: Taste the soup and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
Step 6: Serve
- Ladle and Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately. Enjoy the comforting and hearty flavors of this quick and easy stuffed pepper soup.
Cook’s Tips:
- Cooked Rice: Use leftover cooked rice or prepare the rice while the soup is simmering to save time.
- Lean Beef: Lean ground beef is recommended to keep the soup from becoming too greasy. You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Veggie Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like chopped zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and variety.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control the spice level according to your preference.
Variations:
- Cheesy Stuffed Pepper Soup: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese just before serving for a cheesy twist.
- Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or additional vegetables.
- Mexican-Inspired: Add a can of black beans, a teaspoon of cumin, and a squeeze of lime juice for a Mexican-inspired variation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? A: Yes, you can substitute cooked brown rice for white rice. It will add a slightly different texture and flavor but will still be delicious.
Q: How can I store leftovers? A: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this soup? A: Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
Q: Can I make this soup in advance? A: Yes, you can prepare the soup in advance. The flavors will deepen as it sits. Simply reheat on the stovetop when ready to serve.
Q: What can I serve with this soup? A: Serve this stuffed pepper soup with crusty bread, a simple side salad, or a dollop of sour cream for a complete meal.
This 30-Minute Stuffed Pepper Soup is a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy all the flavors of stuffed peppers in a comforting bowl of soup. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy meal, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the hearty combination of ground beef, bell peppers, and savory tomato broth with the added comfort of cooked rice. Make a big pot and savor the flavors of this classic dish in a convenient and comforting soup form.
Enjoy the hearty and comforting flavors of this quick and easy 30-Minute Stuffed Pepper Soup, perfect for any occasion!
