Stuffed Pepper Soup captures all the delicious flavors of traditional stuffed peppers in a warm, hearty bowl of soup. Packed with tender ground beef, colorful bell peppers, rice, and a flavorful tomato broth, this recipe is a comforting and easy meal perfect for any night of the week.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Ladle
Ingredients Overview
- Ground Beef: Provides a rich, savory base for the soup. Substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Bell Peppers: A mix of red, green, and yellow peppers adds sweetness and color.
- Rice: Provides texture and makes the soup hearty.
- Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce create a rich, flavorful broth.
- Seasonings: Garlic, onion, and Italian herbs add depth and aroma.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add 1 pound ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
- Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 diced onion, and 3 diced bell peppers (red, green, and yellow).
- Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
- Add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional 1 minute.
3. Combine Ingredients
- Return the cooked ground beef to the pot.
- Stir in:
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
4. Simmer
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Add Rice
- Stir in 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown) and let it warm through for 5 minutes.
- For a thicker consistency, add additional rice.
6. Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley or shredded cheese, if desired.
Recipe Tips
- Rice Options: Use cooked quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb alternative.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño for some heat.
- Freezing Tip: If making ahead or freezing, keep the rice separate and add it when reheating to avoid sogginess.
What to Serve With This Recipe
Pair this soup with crusty bread, a fresh side salad, or a slice of garlic toast for a complete and satisfying meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles work well in this recipe.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the meat first, then transfer all ingredients (except the rice) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add cooked rice before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For freezing, store without the rice and add fresh rice when reheating.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3 bell peppers (red, green, yellow), diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup cooked rice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in a large pot, drain fat, and set aside.
- Sauté onion, bell peppers, and garlic in olive oil until softened.
- Return beef to the pot and stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 20-25 minutes.
- Add cooked rice and heat through for 5 minutes.
- Serve warm, garnished with parsley or cheese.
Enjoy this Stuffed Pepper Soup, a comforting and flavorful dish that brings the essence of stuffed peppers to your table in a delightful, spoonable form!
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