Stuffed Pepper Soup
Stuffed pepper soup is a delightful dish that combines the comforting flavors of stuffed peppers in a cozy, hearty one-pot meal. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or chilly weekends when you want something warm and satisfying. Packed with ground beef, fresh vegetables, and rice in a rich tomato-based broth, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re serving it for dinner or enjoying leftovers for lunch, stuffed pepper soup delivers on taste and convenience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting Flavor: The blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a warm, inviting flavor that feels like home.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup makes this dish perfect for busy cooks who want to spend more time enjoying their meal.
- Versatile Ingredients: Customize the soup by adding your favorite veggies or swapping out the rice for quinoa or barley.
- Quick to Prepare: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, this recipe fits easily into your schedule.
- Family-Friendly: Kids love the taste, and it’s an easy way to sneak in some nutritious ingredients.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having everything on hand will make preparation easier and faster.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven: A heavy pot is perfect for even heat distribution and helps achieve that rich flavor as you simmer the soup.
- Cutting board: A stable surface protects your countertops while you chop vegetables safely.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife allows you to quickly and efficiently dice ingredients for a smoother cooking process.
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 while breaking up any clumps. Drain grease if there is any. Season the beef with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Sauté the diced onion and chopped bell peppers in one tablespoon of olive oil until they are soft, about five minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional thirty seconds.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Stir in the cooked beef along with diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Season with Worcestershire sauce, sugar (if using), and Italian seasoning. Taste the mixture; adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Step 4: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for fifteen to twenty minutes while stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Add Rice
If you don’t plan on having leftovers, stir in cooked rice along with chopped parsley, simmering until heated through for about one to two minutes. If planning for leftovers, mix in parsley without adding rice until serving each bowl separately (see notes).
Step 6: Serve
Dish out the hot soup into bowls garnished with shredded cheese if desired.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Serve warm with your favorite bread or crackers on the side!
How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Soup
Stuffed pepper soup is versatile and can be served in numerous delightful ways. Whether you want a simple dinner or a more elaborate meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.
With Fresh Herbs
- Garnish with parsley: A sprinkle of fresh Italian parsley adds color and enhances the flavor.
- Add basil or cilantro: For a different twist, consider fresh basil or cilantro for a refreshing touch.
With Cheese
- Shredded cheddar: Melted cheddar cheese on top creates a rich and creamy layer.
- Mozzarella: Add mozzarella for a gooey, stretchy texture that’s perfect for cheese lovers.
With Crusty Bread
- Serve with garlic bread: A side of garlic bread complements the soup’s flavors beautifully.
- Pair with crusty baguette: Use slices of baguette to scoop up the hearty soup.
As a Meal Prep Option
- Store leftovers properly: Keep leftovers in airtight containers for easy reheating.
- Freezing for later: Portion and freeze for quick meals on busy days.
How to Perfect Stuffed Pepper Soup
Achieving the perfect stuffed pepper soup is all about balance and flavor. Follow these tips to enhance your dish.
- Use quality ground beef: Lean ground beef ensures the soup is hearty without being greasy.
- Sauté vegetables well: Properly sautéing onions and bell peppers allows their natural sweetness to shine through.
- Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste as you go, adding salt, pepper, or sugar until it’s just right.
- Incorporate different peppers: Mix red, green, yellow, or even poblano peppers for varied flavors.
- Add spices carefully: Consider adding crushed red pepper for heat or smoked paprika for depth.
Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Pepper Soup
Pairing side dishes with stuffed pepper soup can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that complement this comforting dish.
- Garlic Bread: An easy-to-make classic that pairs perfectly with the soup’s richness.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing provide a fresh contrast to the warm soup.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful texture and flavor balance to the savory soup.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf can soak up the broth nicely while adding an aromatic element.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients to your meal.
- Baked Potatoes: Simple baked potatoes can serve as a hearty side that complements the soup’s flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Stuffed pepper soup is a delightful dish, but common mistakes can hinder your cooking experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:
- Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking the onions and peppers too long can make them mushy. Sauté just until they are soft to retain some texture.
- Not Tasting as You Go: Failing to taste can lead to bland soup. Adjust seasoning throughout cooking for the best flavor.
- Skipping the Browning Step: Not browning the beef can result in a less flavorful broth. Take the time to brown it well for richer taste.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold broth or tomatoes can slow cooking time. Use room temperature ingredients for quicker results.
- Neglecting Storage Guidelines: Improper storage can affect freshness. Follow recommended storage methods to keep your soup delicious.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low in a pot, stirring occasionally until warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about stuffed pepper soup that might help you enjoy this recipe even more.
What is Stuffed Pepper Soup?
Stuffed pepper soup is a hearty dish made with ground beef, bell peppers, rice, and tomatoes. It captures the flavors of traditional stuffed peppers in a comforting soup form.
Can I make Stuffed Pepper Soup without rice?
Yes! You can omit rice for a low-carb version or substitute it with cauliflower rice or quinoa for different textures.
How do I customize my Stuffed Pepper Soup?
Feel free to add other vegetables like corn or zucchini. You can also switch up the meat by using turkey or chicken instead of beef.
How should I store leftovers of Stuffed Pepper Soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze them for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
Stuffed pepper soup is not only cozy and satisfying but also incredibly versatile. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or customize it with your favorite ingredients, this dish is sure to please everyone at your table. Don’t hesitate to try it out!
Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Stuffed Pepper Soup is a delightful one-pot meal that captures the comforting flavors of traditional stuffed peppers in a hearty, tomato-based broth. This easy recipe combines lean ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, and wholesome rice into a satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights or chilly weekends. With its rich taste and nutritious ingredients, it’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that everyone in the family will love. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal option for lunch leftovers or dinner while you unwind.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
- 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 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups cooked long grain white rice
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess grease and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté diced onion and chopped bell peppers in olive oil until softened (about 5 minutes). Add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds.
- Stir in browned beef along with diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Season with Worcestershire sauce and Italian seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring to a gentle boil; then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- If using immediately, stir in cooked rice and parsley; simmer for an additional minute or two until heated through.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
