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, 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); 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)

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Stuffed pepper soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. This delightful one-pot meal combines the flavors of ground beef, fresh vegetables, and savory spices in a rich tomato broth. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this stuffed pepper soup is not only easy to make but also versatile enough to suit various palates. Whether you’re seeking a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting meal on a chilly day, this recipe will surely become a favorite.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and veggies, this soup satisfies hunger and warms the soul.
Easy to Prepare: With just one pot needed, cleanup is a breeze, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite ingredients or adjust the spices to suit your taste.
Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well in the fridge or freezer, providing tasty leftovers for later.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the familiar flavors of stuffed peppers in this easy-to-eat format.

Tools and Preparation

To make your stuffed pepper soup efficiently, having the right tools is essential. Below are some key items that will help you in the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups
Knife
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Dutch oven: Ideal for even heat distribution, allowing you to brown meat and simmer the soup perfectly.
Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware and ensuring all ingredients combine well.

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)
– 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:
1. Add lean ground beef.
2. Break up any clumps as it cooks.
3. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot:
1. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Sauté diced onions and chopped bell peppers until soft (about 5 minutes).
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Return cooked beef to the pot:
1. Stir in canned diced tomatoes and tomato sauce.
2. Pour in beef broth.
3. Season with Worcestershire sauce, optional sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Taste test; adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil:
1. Reduce heat to medium-low.
2. Simmer for about 15–20 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Add Rice

If you’re not planning leftovers:
1. Stir in cooked rice and parsley into the soup.
2. Simmer until heated through (about 1–2 minutes).

If you want leftovers:
1. Stir parsley into the soup without adding rice.
2. Heat rice separately before adding it individually into each bowl when serving.

Step 6: Serve

Dish out your hot stuffed pepper soup:
1. Garnish with shredded cheese if desired.
2. Enjoy your delicious meal!

How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Soup

Stuffed pepper soup is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this hearty dish.

With Toppings

Shredded Cheese: Add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or mozzarella for extra creaminess.
Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped parsley or basil for a fresh flavor boost.
Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can make the soup even richer and creamier.

As a Meal

With Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread for dipping; it’s perfect for soaking up the broth.
Over Rice: For an added texture, serve the soup over more cooked rice.
In a Bread Bowl: For a fun presentation, serve inside hollowed-out bread bowls.

Pairing with Drinks

Red Wine: A glass of light red wine complements the flavors beautifully.
Iced Tea: A refreshing iced tea can balance the warmth of the soup.

How to Perfect Stuffed Pepper Soup

To ensure your stuffed pepper soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor and texture of the soup.
Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the seasoning based on your taste preferences; add more Italian seasoning if desired.
Cook Rice Separately: If you plan on having leftovers, cook rice separately to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer deepens the flavors; don’t rush this step!

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Pepper Soup

Stuffed pepper soup pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some fantastic options.

Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping in the soup; simply toast slices with garlic butter.
Caesar Salad: A light Caesar salad adds crunch and freshness alongside the hearty soup.
Cornbread: Sweet cornbread balances savory flavors; serve it warm with butter.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a healthy contrast to the rich soup.
Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes can be topped with cheese or sour cream as an additional side.
Stuffed Shells: For a filling meal, pair with cheese-stuffed pasta shells baked in marinara sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making stuffed pepper soup, it’s easy to make some common errors that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish.

Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the ground beef and vegetables can lead to a bland soup. Always taste and adjust seasoning as you go.
Overcooking the rice: If you add rice too early in the cooking process, it may become mushy. Stir it in just before serving for the best texture.
Not using enough broth: If you skimp on beef broth, your soup might turn out too thick. Ensure you measure accurately for a perfect consistency.
Ignoring the sauté step: Neglecting to sauté your veggies can result in a less flavorful base. Take the time to soften onions and peppers for maximum flavor.
Forgetting about leftovers: Leaving cooked soup out at room temperature can spoil it quickly. Store leftovers in airtight containers promptly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store stuffed pepper soup in an airtight container.
It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Stuffed Pepper Soup

Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
The soup can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Stuffed Pepper Soup

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, usually around 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about stuffed pepper soup that may help you prepare this delicious meal.

What is stuffed pepper soup?

Stuffed pepper soup is a comforting dish made with ground beef, bell peppers, rice, and tomatoes simmered together for a hearty one-pot meal.

Can I make stuffed pepper soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

How do I customize my stuffed pepper soup?

Feel free to add other vegetables like corn or zucchini, or spice it up with chili powder or hot sauce for extra heat!

How long does it take to make stuffed pepper soup?

This cozy meal takes about 40 minutes from prep to table, making it a quick dinner option for busy evenings.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed pepper soup is not only hearty and satisfying but also versatile. You can easily customize it with various vegetables or proteins based on your preference. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!

Stuffed Pepper Soup