All the comforting flavors of stuffed peppers are captured in this hearty and warming Stuffed Pepper Soup. Loaded with seasoned ground beef, tender bell peppers, and a rich tomato broth, this soup is everything you love about stuffed peppers but in an easy-to-make, one-pot meal. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re craving a cozy, nourishing dish. The mix of spices, veggies, and beef will make this a family favorite that everyone will ask for again and again!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Recipe Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3/4 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté Vegetables
- Add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Seasoning
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, water, Worcestershire sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Add Rice and Simmer
- Add the uncooked rice to the pot. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If desired, add the brown sugar to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Serve
- Once the rice is cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm with crusty bread or rolls for dipping.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Rice: If you plan to make the soup ahead of time, cook the rice separately and add it when serving. This will prevent the rice from becoming overly soft.
- Peppers: Use a mix of different colored bell peppers for added color and sweetness. Red and yellow peppers tend to be sweeter, while green adds a bit more earthiness.
- Make It Thicker: For a thicker consistency, reduce the amount of beef broth by 1 cup or simmer for a little longer.
Recipe Variations
- Turkey or Chicken: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- Spicy Kick: Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño for some extra heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with cooked lentils or crumbled tofu and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? A: Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will take longer to cook. You may need to add extra broth or water to the soup.
Q: Can I freeze stuffed pepper soup? A: Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers or freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: How long will leftovers keep in the refrigerator? A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
This Stuffed Pepper Soup with Ground Beef is an easy, hearty meal that brings all the flavors of traditional stuffed peppers into a comforting, one-pot dish. It’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week, offering all the classic ingredients you love in a cozy soup form. Serve it with some crusty bread, and enjoy a satisfying bowl of comfort that’s sure to warm you from the inside out!