Stuffed Pepper Soup

Stuffed pepper soup is a delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. This hearty one-pot dish combines ground beef, colorful bell peppers, and rice in a rich tomato-based broth. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for an easy weeknight meal, stuffed pepper soup offers both flavor and satisfaction. It’s versatile enough to adapt to your preferences, making it a standout choice for anyone craving warmth on a chilly day.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• How to Make Stuffed Pepper Soup
• Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
• Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
• Step 3: Combine Ingredients
• Step 4: Simmer the Soup
• Step 5: Add Rice
• Step 6: Serve Hot
• Step 7: Enjoy!
• How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Soup
• With Fresh Breads
• Topped with Cheese
• Garnished with Herbs
• Served with Salad
• How to Perfect Stuffed Pepper Soup
• Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Pepper Soup
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Stuffed Pepper Soup
• Reheating Stuffed Pepper Soup
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I make Stuffed Pepper Soup ahead of time?
• What can I add to my Stuffed Pepper Soup?
• Is there a vegetarian option for Stuffed Pepper Soup?
• How do I thicken my Stuffed Pepper Soup?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you can whip up this dish quickly.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and veggies, it makes for a satisfying meal.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out proteins or add extra vegetables based on your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup stores well, making it ideal for leftovers or freezing for later.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the flavors, so it’s a great way to introduce them to new tastes.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having the right equipment makes all the difference in achieving that perfect stuffed pepper soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for browning meat and simmering soups evenly.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure balanced flavors in your soup.

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 Ground Beef

In a Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the ground beef while breaking up any clumps. Drain grease if needed, then season the beef with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Sauté the onions and bell peppers in 1 tablespoon of olive oil until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Stir in cooked beef along with diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Season with Worcestershire sauce, sugar (if using), and Italian seasoning. Taste test and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper 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 15–20 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Add Rice

If you don’t plan on having leftovers, stir in cooked rice and parsley into the pot. Simmer until heated through, about 1–2 minutes. If you plan on having leftovers, stir in parsley now but keep rice separate until serving.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Dish out servings of the soup hot into bowls garnished with shredded cheese if desired.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Sit back, relax, and enjoy your homemade stuffed pepper soup!

How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Soup

Stuffed pepper soup is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor and appeal. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will make your meal even more enjoyable.

With Fresh Breads

• Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread for dipping. The texture pairs beautifully with the soup.
• Garlic Bread: A warm piece of garlic bread adds a flavorful twist that complements the hearty broth.

Topped with Cheese

• Cheddar Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top for a creamy, rich finish.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melted mozzarella provides a gooey texture that enhances each spoonful.

Garnished with Herbs

• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley not only adds color but also a fresh taste. Scatter it on just before serving.
• Basil Leaves: A few fresh basil leaves can elevate the flavor profile with their aromatic essence.

Served with Salad

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad balances out the richness of the soup, making it a perfect starter.
• Caesar Salad: The crispness and tang of Caesar salad can provide a delightful contrast to the warm soup.

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How to Perfect Stuffed Pepper Soup

Perfecting your stuffed pepper soup is easy with just a few tips. These pointers will help you achieve the best flavors and textures.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs bring out the best flavors in your soup. Always opt for fresh over canned when possible.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to match your preference for a well-balanced flavor.
• Cook Rice Separately: If you’re planning leftovers, cook rice separately to avoid sogginess. This keeps it fluffy and perfect for serving later.
• Experiment with Variations: Don’t hesitate to mix things up! Add other vegetables like corn or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
• Let It Rest: Allowing your soup to rest for about 30 minutes before serving can deepen the flavors as they meld together.
• Store Properly: When storing leftovers, keep rice separate from the soup base. This helps maintain texture when reheating.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Pepper Soup

Pairing side dishes with stuffed pepper soup can create a complete dining experience. Here are some great options that complement this delicious meal.

1. Garlic Knots: These soft, buttery knots are perfect for soaking up every drop of your hearty broth.
2. Cornbread: Sweet and moist cornbread brings a lovely contrast to the savory flavors of the stuffed pepper soup.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and texture, making it an ideal side dish choice.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a satisfying crunch alongside your warm bowl of soup.
5. Stuffed Mushrooms: Flavorful stuffed mushrooms can serve as an elegant appetizer that pairs well with your main dish.
6. Caprese Skewers: These skewers made from fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offer a refreshing bite that complements the richness of the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making stuffed pepper soup is simple, but a few common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Vegetables: Sautéing vegetables for too long can lead to mushiness. Cook them just until they are soft to maintain their texture.
• Skipping Seasoning: Neglecting to season your soup properly can result in bland flavors. Always taste and adjust seasonings throughout cooking.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold broth or tomatoes can lower the soup’s temperature. Always use room temperature ingredients for better cooking results.
• Not Letting it Simmer: Rushing through the simmering step can prevent flavors from developing. Allow your soup to simmer for at least 15 minutes.
• Ignoring Rice Cooking Method: Adding uncooked rice directly into the soup will not yield the best texture. Always use pre-cooked rice for optimal results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Stuffed Pepper Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Stuffed Pepper Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, transfer soup to a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about stuffed pepper soup that might help you on your cooking journey.

Can I make Stuffed Pepper Soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it up to two days in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.

What can I add to my Stuffed Pepper Soup?

Feel free to add beans, corn, or different vegetables based on your preferences.

Is there a vegetarian option for Stuffed Pepper Soup?

Absolutely! Substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.

How do I thicken my Stuffed Pepper Soup?

You can thicken the soup by adding more cooked rice or using a cornstarch slurry.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed pepper soup is not only hearty and satisfying but also versatile. You can customize it with various ingredients based on what you have at home. Whether you’re using leftover vegetables or adjusting spices, this cozy meal is sure to please everyone at the table. Try this recipe soon and enjoy its delightful flavors!