Are you ready to savor a delightful twist on a classic comfort dish? Our stuffed pepper soup is everything you love about stuffed peppers, transformed into a cozy and heartwarming soup that will leave you asking for more. Prepared with simple ingredients right from your pantry and perfected with savory spices, this recipe is a must-have for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting bowl of goodness.
Growing up, my grandmother’s kitchen was always filled with the enticing aroma of her famous stuffed peppers. Filled with vibrant vegetables and herbs, her recipe was the highlight of family dinners. Over the years, I’ve adapted that concept, transforming it into a soup that captures the same delicious essence but with a delightful spin. This dish quickly became a hit at family gatherings, with everyone eagerly anticipating a steaming bowl of this flavorful soup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a game-changer in the world of comforting soups. It stands out due to its simplicity, unique flavor profile, and amazing versatility:
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, preparing this soup is a breeze, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Components: You can customize this soup according to your taste preferences, diet requirements, or simply what you have on hand.
- Nutritious and Hearty: Packed with vegetables, protein, and spices, this soup delivers a satisfying and nutritious meal in one bowl.
- Great for Meal Prep: It stores well, allowing you to enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.
Ingredients Notes
Sourcing quality ingredients elevates the flavor of this dish. Here’s how you can make the most of each component:
- Bell Peppers: Use a mix of red, yellow, and green peppers to bring color and sweetness. Look for firm and glossy peppers for the best texture.
- Ground Beef: Lean ground beef keeps the soup hearty without being too greasy. For a lighter option, ground turkey works just as well.
- Rice: Any type of rice can work, but we recommend long-grain white rice for its fluffy texture.
- Tomato Base: Either crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce will do, providing a rich and robust flavor.
- Spices and Herbs: Use fresh whenever possible to enhance the aromatic quality, especially with garlic and basil.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Start by preparing your vegetables. Dice the bell peppers and onion, mince the garlic, and set them aside. Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add a touch of olive oil and sauté the garlic and onion until fragrant and translucent.
Step 2
Add the ground beef to the pot. Cook until browned, ensuring to break it apart as it cooks to avoid large clumps. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the soup light.
Step 3
Add the diced bell peppers, canned tomatoes (or sauce), and beef broth to the pot. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over 20-25 minutes.
Step 4
Add the rice to the pot, stirring occasionally. Sauté until the rice is cooked to your desired tenderness. Long-grain rice typically requires around 15 minutes.
Step 5
Season the soup with salt, pepper, and your choice of fresh herbs before serving. Serve it warm with a crusty bread side, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or basil for added freshness.
Storage Options
This soup can be easily stored for later enjoyment. Once cooled, place leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to three months. When reheating, add a bit of broth or water to regain the original consistency.
Variations & Substitutions
Customize this delicious soup to suit different palates or dietary needs:
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils for a protein-rich vegetarian option.
- Low-Carb Surprise: Swap out rice for cauliflower rice to keep the soup low in carbohydrates yet high in flavor.
- Extra Heat: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeño for those who prefer a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
This stuffed pepper soup is versatile enough to be enjoyed in various settings:
- Weeknight Delight: Serve as a quick and easy dinner option that the whole family will love.
- Party Favorite: Offer as a starter at gatherings and potlucks, sure to impress your guests with its comforting flavors.
- Lunchbox Star: Pack into a thermos for a wholesome and satisfying work or school lunch that will keep you energized all day long.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe in a Slow Cooker? Absolutely! Sauté the onions, garlic, and ground beef in a skillet first. Then, transfer everything to a slow cooker, adding the remaining ingredients except the rice. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add the rice during the last hour of cooking.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs? While fresh herbs bestow the soup with vibrant flavors, dried herbs are a handy substitute and great pantry staples. Use them sparingly, as their flavors are typically more concentrated compared to fresh.
What’s the best way to reheat the soup? For optimal flavor, reheat the soup gently over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if the soup has thickened too much in storage.
Stuffed Pepper Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef lean
- 2 bell peppers diced, any color
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz can
- 1 cup rice uncooked
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large pot over medium heat, warm olive oil and sauté diced onions and bell peppers until soft.
- Add in the ground beef, cooking until browned thoroughly. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, rice, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and soup is thickened.
