Stuffed Pepper Soup
Stuffed pepper soup is the perfect cozy dish for any occasion. This hearty one-pot meal combines ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and rice in a rich tomato-based broth. It’s not only comforting but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it suitable for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite toppings, ensuring that every bowl is uniquely delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This stuffed pepper soup can be made in just 40 minutes, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners.
- Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and vegetables, this soup will keep you satisfied and warm.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.
- One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal with family or friends.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for a quick meal later.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience seamless, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment helps ensure everything runs smoothly while preparing your stuffed pepper soup.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven: Ideal for evenly heating ingredients and simmering the soup to perfection.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy.
- Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware.
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 necessary. Season the beef with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Sauté the diced onions and chopped bell peppers in one tablespoon of olive oil until soft—this should take about five minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for another thirty seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Stir in the cooked beef along with diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Season this mixture with Worcestershire sauce, sugar (if using), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Taste test to adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about fifteen to twenty minutes while stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Add Rice
If you do not plan on having leftovers, stir in cooked rice and parsley into the pot, simmering until heated through—this should take about one to two minutes. If you plan on saving some for later, add parsley now but keep rice separate until serving.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Dish out the soup into bowls while garnishing with shredded cheese if desired.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Enjoy your hearty stuffed pepper soup hot!
How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Soup
Stuffed pepper soup is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. You can enhance this cozy dish with various accompaniments that complement its rich flavors.
With Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of warm baguette for dipping into the soup.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor pairs perfectly with the tomato base.
Topped with Cheese
- Shredded Cheddar: Add a handful on top for a creamy texture and rich taste.
- Mozzarella: Melt some mozzarella for a stretchy, cheesy delight.
Accompanied by a Salad
- Garden Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens adds a crunchy contrast.
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing enhances the savory flavors of the soup.
With Sour Cream
- Dollop of Sour Cream: A spoonful adds creaminess and tang, balancing the spices.
Garnished with Herbs
- Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for freshness and color.
- Basil Leaves: Add basil for an aromatic touch that brightens the dish.
How to Perfect Stuffed Pepper Soup
To make your stuffed pepper soup even better, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance flavors and ensure a comforting meal every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables improve the overall taste and texture of the soup.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you cook, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preference.
- Let it Simmer Longer: Allowing the soup to simmer for longer helps meld the flavors beautifully.
- Experiment with Proteins: Try using ground turkey or sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Add More Veggies: Incorporate additional vegetables like corn or zucchini for extra nutrients and variety.
- Serve with Rice Separately: If you want leftovers, keep rice separate until serving to prevent mushiness.
Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Pepper Soup
Pairing side dishes with your stuffed pepper soup can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options that complement its hearty nature.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic pairing that offers gooey cheese and crispy bread.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to the savory soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your meal.
- Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad brings refreshing elements alongside the warm soup.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
- Stuffed Breadsticks: Cheesy or herby breadsticks are fun to dip in your bowl of soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making stuffed pepper soup, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the taste and texture. Here are a few pitfalls to watch for:
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Ignoring the seasoning: Failing to season your ingredients properly can lead to bland soup. Always taste as you go and adjust with salt and pepper.
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Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking bell peppers too long can make them mushy. Sauté until just soft to maintain their texture.
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Skipping the simmering step: Not allowing the soup to simmer can prevent flavors from fully developing. Be patient; let it bubble for 15-20 minutes for the best taste.
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Using cold rice: Adding cold rice directly into the soup can cool it down. Always warm your rice first or stir it in just before serving.
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Neglecting leftovers storage: Storing hot soup in an airtight container can create condensation, leading to sogginess. Allow it to cool before sealing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover stuffed pepper soup in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion.
Reheating Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through (about 5-10 minutes).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Stuffed Pepper Soup?
Stuffed pepper soup is a hearty dish made with ground beef, bell peppers, tomatoes, and rice, capturing all the flavors of traditional stuffed peppers in a comforting broth.
Can I make Stuffed Pepper Soup without meat?
Yes! You can easily substitute ground beef with lentils or beans for a vegetarian version of stuffed pepper soup that still delivers on flavor.
How do I spice up Stuffed Pepper Soup?
To add more flavor, consider including spices like cumin or chili powder, or even toss in some diced jalapeños for heat!
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Just note that brown rice takes longer to cook. If using it in stuffed pepper soup, add it earlier during cooking.
How do I store leftovers of Stuffed Pepper Soup?
Leftovers should be stored in airtight containers and kept in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for longer storage.
Final Thoughts
This stuffed pepper soup is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different grains or proteins according to your preference. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a family-friendly meal, this recipe checks all the boxes. Give it a try and enjoy its warmth on chilly evenings!
Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Stuffed Pepper Soup is the ultimate cozy comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or busy weeknights. This delightful one-pot meal combines lean ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and tender rice simmered in a rich tomato-based broth. Not only is it hearty and satisfying, but it also allows for customization with your favorite toppings, ensuring every bowl is uniquely delicious. With straightforward preparation and minimal cleanup, this soup is an ideal choice for family dinners or casual gatherings. Treat yourself to a warm bowl of this flavorful dish that embodies the warmth of home-cooked meals.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cans diced tomatoes (14.5 oz each)
- 1 can tomato sauce (15 oz)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
- 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)
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the ground beef; drain excess grease.
- Sauté diced onions and chopped bell peppers in olive oil for about five minutes; add minced garlic and cook for another thirty seconds.
- Stir in the cooked beef along with diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Season with Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil; reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- If serving immediately, stir in cooked rice and parsley until heated through; if saving leftovers, keep rice separate until serving.
- Serve hot with desired toppings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
