Stuffed Pepper Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that captures all the flavors of classic stuffed peppers in a simple and easy-to-make soup. Loaded with ground beef, bell peppers, rice, and a flavorful tomato broth, this soup is perfect for a cozy family dinner. It’s a great way to warm up on a chilly day and is easy to customize to your liking.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain off any excess fat and set the beef aside on a plate.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the chopped bell peppers and cook for another 5 minutes until slightly softened.
Step 3: Build the Soup Base
- Add the browned ground beef back into the pot with the vegetables.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Add the Rice
- Stir in the cooked rice and let it warm through for about 5 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 5: Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Rice: Use cooked rice for this recipe to save time. You can use either white or brown rice depending on your preference. If you prefer firmer rice, add it just before serving.
- Beef: Ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of ground beef for a lighter version.
- Broth: Adjust the amount of beef broth based on how thick or thin you prefer your soup. Add more broth if you like a thinner consistency.
- Make-Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations
- Stuffed Pepper Soup with Quinoa: Substitute the rice with cooked quinoa for a different texture and added protein.
- Vegetarian Stuffed Pepper Soup: Omit the ground beef and add a can of black beans or kidney beans for a vegetarian version. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
- Spicy Stuffed Pepper Soup: Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage instead of ground beef for a spicier kick.
- Cheesy Stuffed Pepper Soup: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a cheesy twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make Stuffed Pepper Soup in a Slow Cooker?
Yes! To make this soup in a slow cooker, brown the ground beef and sauté the onion, garlic, and bell peppers in a skillet. Then, transfer everything to the slow cooker, add the remaining ingredients (except the cooked rice), and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cooked rice during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
2. How Do I Store Leftover Stuffed Pepper Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. You may need to add a bit of extra broth if the soup has thickened.
3. Can I Freeze Stuffed Pepper Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. For best results, freeze the soup without the rice and add cooked rice when reheating.
4. What Can I Serve with Stuffed Pepper Soup?
Stuffed Pepper Soup pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or garlic bread. You can also top it with a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese for added flavor.
Stuffed Pepper Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any night of the week. It has all the delicious flavors of stuffed peppers, but in a cozy soup form. With tender bell peppers, savory ground beef, and hearty rice in a rich tomato broth, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a bowl of comfort that’s perfect for any occasion!
