Stuffed Pepper Soup

Name: Stuffed Pepper Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb lean ground beef; 1 tablespoon olive oil; ½ 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; 2 cups cooked long-grain white rice

Published: July 3, 2025

by Emilia

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Stuffed pepper soup is a warm and inviting dish that brings the flavors of stuffed peppers into a comforting bowl of soup. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy gathering, this hearty meal showcases ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and rice all simmered in a rich tomato broth. It’s a delightful twist on a classic that will satisfy your cravings and warm your soul.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and vegetables, this soup is sure to keep you full and satisfied.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize it with your favorite veggies or grains to suit your taste preferences.
One-Pot Wonder: Easy cleanup with everything cooked in one pot means more time enjoying your meal.
Family-Friendly: A comforting dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your stuffed pepper soup, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Dutch oven
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

Dutch oven: This heavy pot distributes heat evenly, perfect for simmering soups and stews.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and prepping ingredients.
Chef’s knife: A versatile tool that makes prepping ingredients quick and easy.

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 Beef

In a Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the ground beef until cooked through. Break up any clumps as it cooks. Once browned, drain off any excess grease if necessary. Season the beef with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same Dutch oven, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
Sauté the diced onions 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 everything with Worcestershire sauce, sugar (if desired), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Then reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 15–20 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Add Rice

If you don’t plan on having leftovers, stir in the cooked rice along with chopped parsley into the soup. Let it simmer for an additional minute or two until heated through. If you anticipate leftovers, stir in parsley but keep rice separate until serving.

Step 6: Serve

Dish out hot soup into bowls garnished with shredded cheese if desired.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Savor each spoonful of this hearty stuffed pepper soup!

How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Soup

Serving stuffed pepper soup is a delightful experience that can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you enjoy it plain or with various toppings, this hearty dish is sure to warm your heart.

Classic Garnish

Shredded Cheese: Top each bowl with shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a creamy finish.
Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped Italian parsley or basil for added freshness and flavor.

Accompanying Bread

Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of rustic bread to soak up the delicious broth.
Garlic Bread: A side of garlic bread adds a savory touch that pairs well with the soup.

Salad Pairings

Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad complements the richness of the soup perfectly.
Mixed Greens: A simple salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.

Optional Extras

Sour Cream: Adding a dollop of sour cream can enhance the creaminess and balance the flavors.
Hot Sauce: For those who prefer a kick, a few drops of hot sauce can elevate the taste.

How to Perfect Stuffed Pepper Soup

Creating the perfect stuffed pepper soup requires attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to make your dish stand out.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture. Opt for ripe bell peppers and fresh herbs whenever possible.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce to match your preference.
Customize Rice Options: Feel free to substitute long-grain white rice with brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist.
Control Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer longer or reduce some broth.
Add Spice: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking.
Store Properly: If making in advance, store rice separately from the soup to maintain texture when reheating.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Pepper Soup

Pairing side dishes with stuffed pepper soup can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement its rich flavors.

Garlic Bread: This buttery treat is perfect for dipping into the savory broth.
Cornbread: A sweet cornbread provides a delightful contrast to the savory soup.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Parmesan and croutons adds crunch and flavor.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring additional nutrients and vibrant colors to your meal.
Cheesy Biscuits: Fluffy biscuits with cheese are perfect for enjoying alongside each bowl of soup.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges offer a satisfying crunch that pairs nicely with the soup’s softness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making stuffed pepper soup, avoiding common mistakes can enhance its flavor and texture.

Ignoring the seasoning: Seasoning your ingredients at each step is key. Don’t wait until the end; add salt and pepper as you cook for a deeper flavor.
Overcooking the vegetables: Softening bell peppers and onions is important, but don’t let them become mushy. Sauté them just until tender for a better texture.
Skipping the taste test: Always taste the soup before serving. Adjust with Worcestershire sauce or sugar as needed to balance flavors.
Using uncooked rice: Make sure to use cooked rice in your soup. Adding raw rice will change the consistency and cooking time significantly.
Not letting it simmer long enough: Simmering allows flavors to meld. Be sure to let your soup simmer for at least 15-20 minutes for optimum taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
The soup lasts up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Stuffed Pepper Soup

Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Stuffed Pepper Soup

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20 minutes.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until heated through (about 5-10 minutes).

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about stuffed pepper soup that may help you along your cooking journey.

How do I make stuffed pepper soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for added flavor.

Can I use different types of rice?

Absolutely! You can use brown rice or quinoa as alternatives. Just ensure they are cooked before adding them to the soup.

Is stuffed pepper soup healthy?

Yes! This dish is packed with vegetables, lean protein, and can be made lower in calories by reducing cheese or using less oil.

How long does stuffed pepper soup take to cook?

The total time for this recipe is about 40 minutes, including prep and cooking time, making it a quick meal option during busy weeknights.

Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to add zucchini, corn, or beans for extra nutrition and flavor. Customize it according to your preferences!

Final Thoughts

Stuffed pepper soup is not only comforting but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting spices. It’s perfect for meal prep too—try it out today!

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