Pepper Soup Recipe
This Pepper Soup Recipe transforms the comforting flavors of Italian stuffed peppers into a delicious, one-pot soup. Perfect for cozy weeknights or gatherings, this dish combines juicy sausage, vibrant bell peppers, and tender rice in a zesty tomato broth. The versatility of this recipe allows you to use whatever vegetables or proteins you have on hand, making it suitable for any occasion. With optional melty mozzarella on top, each bowl brims with flavor that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This soup cooks up in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of Italian sausage and fresh herbs creates a rich taste that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use any leftover veggies or switch out proteins to suit your preferences.
- Comforting Meal: Hearty and filling, this soup is perfect for chilly days or family gatherings.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup required as everything cooks in one pot.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this flavorful Pepper Soup Recipe, gather your essential tools to make the cooking process smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven: Essential for cooking the entire soup in one vessel, ensuring even heat distribution.
- Sharp knife: A good knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, enhancing your prep time.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Used for stirring the ingredients without scratching your pot.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. hot Italian sausage (may sub lean ground beef/turkey – see notes)
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped (or half large)
- 1 red bell pepper, 1/2-inch chop
- 1 green bell pepper, 1/2-inch chop
- 4-6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/8-1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes, no salt/seasonings added
- 1 14.5 oz. can fire roasted diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 3/4 cup uncooked long grain white rice (see notes for options)
- 1 TBS EACH fresh chopped basil, oregano, parsley (or 1 tsp EACH dried)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 6 cups low sodium beef broth
- 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Freshly shredded mozzarella for serving
How to Make Pepper Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage and Onions
Heat a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add the sausage and chopped onions to the pot.
Cook for about 4 minutes while breaking up the sausage with a wooden spoon until browned.
Incorporate the bell peppers, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes; sauté for an additional 2–3 minutes until the meat is cooked through and the onions are tender.
Step 2: Combine Remaining Ingredients
- Drain excess grease from the pot.
- Add all remaining ingredients except cheeses to the pot.
- Stir everything together to ensure even distribution of flavors.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Cover the pot and bring it to a boil over high heat.
Once boiling, reduce heat to low.
Simmer covered for about 8–12 minutes, stirring occasionally until rice is cooked through. Check occasionally as cooking time may vary based on your rice type.
Step 4: Stir in Cheese and Seasoning
After simmering:
Stir in Parmesan cheese along with salt and pepper to taste.
If you prefer a thinner soup, add additional beef broth as desired.
Step 5: Serve with Cheese
Ladle the soup into bowls.
Top each bowl with freshly shredded mozzarella before serving.
Dig in and enjoy this delightful Pepper Soup!
How to Serve Pepper Soup Recipe
Serving your Pepper Soup Recipe can elevate the dining experience, making it even more enjoyable. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that complement the robust flavors of this soup.
With Homemade Garlic Bread
- This classic pairing adds a crunchy texture and rich garlic flavor, perfect for dipping into the soup.
Accompanied by a Caesar Salad
- A crisp Caesar salad offers a refreshing contrast to the warm and hearty soup, balancing the meal beautifully.
Topped with Extra Cheese
- For cheese lovers, adding extra mozzarella or Parmesan on top brings a delicious creaminess that enhances every spoonful.
Served in Bread Bowls
- Hollowed-out bread bowls not only look impressive but also absorb the flavors of the soup, creating a tasty treat as you eat.
Alongside Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
- The gooeyness of grilled cheese pairs wonderfully with the spicy and savory notes of your Pepper Soup Recipe, making for a comforting combo.
With Crusty Artisan Rolls
- Crusty rolls are perfect for soaking up every drop of the flavorful broth, adding to your overall enjoyment.
How to Perfect Pepper Soup Recipe
Achieving the perfect Pepper Soup Recipe involves attention to detail and some helpful tips. Here are some ways to enhance your cooking process:
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs significantly boost flavor. Opt for in-season produce when possible.
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Don’t Skip the Browning: Browning the sausage and onions develops deeper flavors in your soup. Take your time during this step for maximum taste.
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Adjust Spiciness: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce red pepper flakes or use sweet Italian sausage instead. Taste as you go to find your ideal spice level.
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Use Quality Broth: A good quality low-sodium beef broth is essential; it serves as the base for your soup’s flavor profile. Homemade broth is even better!
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Let It Simmer: Allowing the soup to simmer longer melds the flavors together beautifully. Just be sure to check if more broth is needed as it cooks.
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Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add any leftover vegetables or grains you have on hand. This recipe is versatile and forgiving, allowing creative tweaks.
Best Side Dishes for Pepper Soup Recipe
To round out your meal, consider these side dishes that pair wonderfully with Pepper Soup Recipe. Each option brings its own unique flair to your table.
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Garlic Knots: Soft and chewy, these knots are brushed with garlic butter and are perfect for dipping into your soup.
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Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a bright contrast to the hearty soup.
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Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful texture contrast and sweetness that complements the savory soup well.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies can add color and nutrition while enhancing the overall meal experience.
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Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized treats filled with cheese and herbs make an excellent appetizer before digging into your main dish.
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Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad adds substance without overshadowing your Pepper Soup Recipe’s flavors; consider adding vinaigrette for brightness.
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Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs can serve as a hearty side that pairs well with any soup dish.
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Crispy Fried Onions: These crunchy toppings add texture and flavor; sprinkle them over the soup before serving for an extra crunch!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making this Pepper Soup Recipe, there are a few common mistakes to watch out for. Avoiding these will help ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough spices can lead to a bland soup. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Overcooking the rice: If you cook the rice too long, it can become mushy. Monitor the soup closely while it simmers.
- Not browning the sausage: Failing to brown the sausage properly can result in less flavor. Take time to cook it until golden before adding other ingredients.
- Ignoring ingredient substitutions: Using dried herbs instead of fresh can alter taste significantly. Know when it’s okay to substitute.
- Forgetting to drain grease: Leaving excess grease can make your soup greasy and unappetizing. Drain after browning meats for a cleaner broth.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Pepper Soup Recipe
- Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it can last for 2-3 months.
Reheating Pepper Soup Recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway.
- Stovetop: Heat on medium in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this Pepper Soup Recipe that may help clarify your cooking experience.
Can I use different types of meat in this Pepper Soup Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute hot Italian sausage with lean ground beef or turkey for a healthier option.
How do I make this Pepper Soup Recipe vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, replace meat with plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
What can I serve with Pepper Soup Recipe?
This soup pairs well with homemade bread or a light salad such as Caesar Salad.
How long does Pepper Soup keep in the refrigerator?
Pepper Soup lasts about 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge.
Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize with any vegetables you have on hand like zucchini or corn.
Final Thoughts
This Pepper Soup Recipe is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have available. Whether you want extra veggies or a different protein, this recipe adapts beautifully. Give it a try and enjoy a warm bowl of deliciousness!
Pepper Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Warm up your evenings with this comforting Pepper Soup, inspired by the beloved flavors of Italian stuffed peppers. This one-pot dish is quick to make, taking only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Featuring juicy sausage, vibrant bell peppers, and tender rice simmered in a zesty tomato broth, every bowl bursts with flavor. Plus, its versatility means you can easily customize it with whatever vegetables or proteins you have on hand. Top with melty mozzarella for an extra touch of indulgence. Enjoy a hearty meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 1 lb hot Italian sausage
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 4–6 garlic cloves, minced
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 14.5 oz fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 3/4 cup uncooked long grain white rice
- 6 cups low sodium beef broth
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- In a large soup pot over medium-high heat, brown the sausage and onions for about 4 minutes.
- Add bell peppers, garlic, and red pepper flakes; sauté until meat is cooked through.
- Drain excess grease and add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, rice, and beef broth. Stir well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for about 8–12 minutes until the rice is tender.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and season to taste before serving with shredded mozzarella on top.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One-pot
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
