Stuffed Pepper Soup

A Stuffed Pepper Soup is an incredible dish that blends the flavors of traditional stuffed peppers into a comforting and hearty soup. Perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings, this recipe showcases vibrant bell peppers, savory beef, and aromatic herbs. It’s a versatile meal that can be made in a crockpot, instant pot, or on the stovetop, making it suitable for any cooking style.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in less than an hour!
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of herbs and spices creates a rich flavor profile that warms you from the inside out.
• Versatile Cooking Methods: Whether you prefer using a slow cooker or a stovetop, this recipe adapts to your preferred method without sacrificing taste.
• Nutritious: Packed with vegetables and lean protein, this soup is both healthy and filling.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time, and enjoy leftovers throughout the week for easy lunches or dinners.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Stuffed Pepper Soup easily, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and help create the perfect dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Stirring spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot or Dutch oven: This allows for even cooking and provides ample space to combine all ingredients comfortably.
• Stirring spoon: A sturdy spoon helps mix ingredients thoroughly while preventing sticking or burning.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make your delicious Stuffed Pepper Soup:

For the Base

• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup diced onion
• ½ tablespoon minced garlic

For the Vegetables

• 2 cups diced red (orange or yellow bell peppers)
• 14 ½ oz can petite diced tomatoes
• 15 oz can tomato sauce

For the Broth

• 3 cups water
• 2 cups low sodium beef broth

For Seasoning

• ½ teaspoon dried parsley
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes

For the Rice

• ⅔ cup long grain white rice

How to Make Stuffed Pepper Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Ingredients

Start by heating the olive oil in your large pot over medium heat. Once hot:
1. Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
2. Stir in diced onions and minced garlic; sauté until onions become translucent.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Liquids

Once your meat mixture is ready:
1. Add diced bell peppers to the pot; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
2. Pour in petite diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.

Step 3: Season Your Soup

Incorporate all your spices:
1. Add dried parsley, basil, oregano, black pepper, bay leaf, and red pepper flakes.
2. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors.

Step 4: Cook the Rice

Add rice directly into the soup mixture:
1. Bring everything to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes until rice is tender.

Enjoy your warm bowl of Stuffed Pepper Soup! This delightful meal is sure to become a favorite in your home!

How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Soup

Stuffed Pepper Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve with slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth.
• Garlic Bread: Pair with buttery garlic bread for an extra layer of flavor that complements the soup.

Topped with Cheese

• Shredded Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella, on top of each bowl for a melty addition.
• Parmesan Crumbles: Add freshly grated Parmesan for a nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste.

Garnished with Herbs

• Fresh Parsley: Chop fresh parsley and sprinkle it over the soup for a pop of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Use whole basil leaves as a garnish to add an aromatic touch.

Accompanied by Salad

• Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with vinaigrette can balance the richness of the soup.
• Caesar Salad: For a heartier option, serve with Caesar salad for added crunch and flavor.

How to Perfect Stuffed Pepper Soup

To achieve the best results with your Stuffed Pepper Soup, consider these tips to elevate your dish.

• Bold Flavors: Use fresh herbs and spices to intensify flavors. Adding more garlic or Italian seasoning can make a big difference.
• Quality Broth: Opt for high-quality low-sodium beef broth. It enhances the soup’s depth without making it too salty.
• Adjust Rice Cooking Time: If you prefer softer rice, allow it to cook longer in the soup. Just ensure you stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste your soup before serving and adjust seasoning as needed. This ensures the perfect balance of flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Pepper Soup

Pairing side dishes with your Stuffed Pepper Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread complements the savory flavors of the soup beautifully.
2. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Classic grilled cheese sandwiches offer a comforting side that pairs well with any soup.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies provide additional nutrition and flavor contrast.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges add crunch and are perfect for dipping into the soup.
5. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds protein and freshness, balancing the hearty soup.
6. Stuffed Mini Peppers: For a thematic touch, serve stuffed mini peppers alongside your main dish, filled with cheese or grains.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes will help you create a delicious Stuffed Pepper Soup. Here are some common pitfalls and how to steer clear of them.

• Using the wrong kind of meat: Choosing low-quality or fatty ground beef can affect the soup’s flavor and texture. Opt for lean ground beef for the best results.

• Skipping the seasoning: Forgetting to season your soup adequately will lead to bland flavors. Make sure to follow the seasoning amounts for a well-balanced taste.

• Overcooking the rice: If you add rice too early, it may become mushy. Stir it in during the last 20 minutes of cooking for perfect texture.

• Neglecting fresh ingredients: Using stale or old vegetables can ruin your soup. Always use fresh bell peppers and onions for a vibrant taste.

• Not adjusting liquid levels: If your soup is too thick, it can be hard to enjoy. Adjust the water or broth as needed based on your desired consistency.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Allow soup to cool before refrigerating.

Freezing Stuffed Pepper Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date for easy reference.

Reheating Stuffed Pepper Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warm, about 20-25 minutes.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl; cover loosely and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

• Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over medium heat; stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Stuffed Pepper Soup that may help clarify any uncertainties.

What is Stuffed Pepper Soup?

Stuffed Pepper Soup is a hearty dish that combines ground beef, bell peppers, tomatoes, and rice in a flavorful broth. It’s a comforting meal perfect for any occasion.

Can I make Stuffed Pepper Soup vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives. Also, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for extra flavor.

How do I customize my Stuffed Pepper Soup?

Feel free to add other vegetables like corn or zucchini and adjust spices according to your taste preferences. This soup is very versatile!

Is Stuffed Pepper Soup good for meal prep?

Absolutely! This soup stores well and tastes even better after flavors meld together overnight, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed Pepper Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different proteins or veggies based on your preference. Give this recipe a try today, and enjoy a warm bowl of comfort!