Stuffed Pepper Soup
Stuffed Pepper Soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth and flavor to any dining table. Perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or cozy weeknight meals, this hearty soup combines the classic flavors of stuffed peppers into a simple, one-pot recipe. The rustic tomato-based broth, combined with ground beef, fresh vegetables, and rice, makes it a satisfying choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This stuffed pepper soup comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Hearty and Filling: Loaded with protein and veggies, this soup is sure to satisfy your hunger.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients or add your favorite spices to make it your own.
- One-Pot Wonder: Enjoy minimal cleanup with this all-in-one recipe that cooks in a single pot.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools will make preparing your stuffed pepper soup a breeze. Here are some essentials you’ll need to get started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven: Ideal for browning meat and simmering soups evenly.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes quick work of chopping onions and peppers.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware.
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 the lean ground beef. Break up any clumps as you cook. Drain excess grease if needed. Season the beef with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the pot. Sauté the diced yellow onion and chopped bell peppers until soft, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Stir in the cooked ground beef along with the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Season with Worcestershire sauce, sugar (if using), and Italian seasoning. Taste test and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
Step 4: Bring to a Boil
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and let simmer for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Add Rice & Garnish
If you’re not planning on having leftovers, stir in cooked rice and chopped parsley into the pot. Simmer for an additional minute or two until heated through. If saving some for later, add parsley directly into each bowl before serving along with heated rice.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Dish out your delicious stuffed pepper soup while hot! Top each serving with shredded cheese if desired.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Savor every bite of this comforting stuffed pepper soup! Whether it’s for dinner or lunch leftovers, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household.
How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Soup
Stuffed pepper soup is not just a hearty meal; it’s also versatile in how you can serve it. Whether for a family dinner or a cozy gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your experience.
Garnishing Options
- Shredded Cheese: Top each bowl with cheddar or mozzarella cheese for added creaminess.
- Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil for a burst of flavor and color.
- Sour Cream: Add a dollop of sour cream for tanginess and richness.
Accompaniments
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm loaf of crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
- Salad: A simple green salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
- Cornbread: Pair with sweet cornbread for a delightful Southern twist.
Serving Style
- Individual Bowls: Serve in individual bowls for a more personalized dining experience.
- Family Style: Set up a large pot on the table, allowing guests to serve themselves as they desire.
How to Perfect Stuffed Pepper Soup
Perfecting stuffed pepper soup is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to make it truly exceptional:
- Seasoning: Adjust salt, pepper, and spices according to your taste preferences for the best flavor.
- Quality Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and quality beef broth for a richer taste.
- Simmer Time: Allow the soup to simmer longer if you have time; this enhances the flavors even more.
- Rice Alternatives: Consider using quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier option if you prefer no rice.
- Leftovers Storage: Store soup and rice separately if you plan on having leftovers to maintain texture.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the soup a day in advance; flavors will meld beautifully overnight.
Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Pepper Soup
Pairing side dishes with stuffed pepper soup can enhance your meal. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the flavors of the soup perfectly.
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and freshness alongside the hearty soup.
- Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil makes for an excellent appetizer.
- Roasted Vegetables: A side of seasonal roasted veggies adds nutrition and variety to your plate.
- Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits with cheese pair wonderfully with the warm soup.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges offer another comforting option that everyone loves.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making stuffed pepper soup, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to watch for.
- Skipping the Browning Step: Failing to brown the ground beef can result in bland flavors. Make sure to cook the beef until it’s fully browned for the best taste.
- Overcooking Vegetables: Cooking onions and bell peppers too long can lead to a mushy texture. Aim to sauté them just until soft for a better bite.
- Not Tasting Before Serving: Skipping the taste test can leave your soup under-seasoned. Always sample your soup before serving and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Using Cold Rice: Adding cold rice directly to the soup might not heat through properly. Ensure your rice is warm or stir it in at the end if you plan on storing leftovers.
- Ignoring Leftover Storage: Not storing leftovers properly can lead to spoilage. Use airtight containers and refrigerate immediately after serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store stuffed pepper soup in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes or until hot.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about stuffed pepper soup that may help you as you prepare this dish.
What is Stuffed Pepper Soup?
Stuffed pepper soup is a hearty dish made with ground beef, bell peppers, and rice simmered in a flavorful tomato broth.
Can I make Stuffed Pepper Soup vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute ground beef with lentils or your favorite plant-based meat alternative for a delicious vegetarian version.
How do I customize Stuffed Pepper Soup?
You can add other vegetables like corn or zucchini, or use different types of cheese for topping based on your preferences.
Is there a way to make Stuffed Pepper Soup spicy?
Absolutely! Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes during cooking for some extra heat.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes! Just remember that brown rice takes longer to cook, so adjust your timing accordingly if using uncooked rice.
Final Thoughts
Stuffed pepper soup is an incredibly comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on what you have at home, making it easy and satisfying. Give this recipe a try, and let your creativity shine!
Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Stuffed Pepper Soup is the ultimate comfort food, bringing the classic flavors of stuffed peppers into a cozy, one-pot meal. This hearty dish features ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, and rice simmered in a rich tomato broth. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknight dinners or meal prep for the week ahead. With its customizable ingredients and satisfying taste, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.
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
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar, or to taste (optional)
- 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)
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess grease.
- Add olive oil and sauté diced onion and bell peppers until soft. Stir in garlic for an additional 30 seconds.
- Return the beef to the pot along with diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Season with Worcestershire sauce and Italian seasoning.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in cooked rice if serving immediately; garnish with parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
