Stuffed Pepper Soup
Stuffed pepper soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This hearty one-pot dinner combines the rich flavors of ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, and savory spices in a rustic tomato-based broth. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this stuffed pepper soup is not only easy to prepare but also satisfying and full of nutrition. With its versatility, you can enjoy it as a standalone meal or pair it with your favorite bread for an extra treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Pot Wonder: Eliminate the hassle of multiple dishes as everything cooks in one pot, simplifying cleanup.
- Flavorful Ingredients: Packed with ground beef, fresh vegetables, and seasonings, this soup is bursting with flavor.
- Customizable: Tailor the recipe to suit your taste by adding or omitting ingredients like rice or cheese.
- Comfort Food: Ideal for chilly days, this soup warms you from the inside out.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking stuffed pepper soup, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven: Provides even heat distribution, perfect for browning meat and simmering soups.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise chopping of vegetables for consistent cooking times.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements allow for perfect seasoning and flavor balance.
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)
– 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:
1. Add the lean ground beef.
2. Break up any clumps while browning until fully cooked.
3. Drain excess grease if necessary.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Using the same Dutch oven:
1. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Sauté the diced onions and finely chopped bell peppers until soft, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Stir in:
1. The cooked ground beef.
2. Two cans of diced tomatoes.
3. One can of tomato sauce.
4. Two cups of beef broth.
5. Worcestershire sauce, optional sugar, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil:
1. Reduce heat to medium-low.
2. Simmer for about 15–20 minutes while stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Add Rice & Parsley
If you don’t plan on having leftovers:
1. Stir in cooked rice and chopped parsley into the pot.
2. Simmer until heated through (about 1–2 minutes).
If you plan on having leftovers:
1. Stir in parsley only at this stage.
2. Serve individual bowls with heated rice mixed in later.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Ladle into bowls:
1. Garnish with shredded cheese if desired.
2. Enjoy your delicious stuffed pepper soup!
How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Soup
Stuffed pepper soup is a comforting dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- Sourdough Bread – A thick slice of sourdough bread complements the soup perfectly.
- Garlic Breadsticks – Add some flavor with warm garlic breadsticks for dipping.
- French Baguette – Crispy baguette slices are ideal for scooping up the soup.
Add a Fresh Salad
- Caesar Salad – The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons work well alongside the soup’s flavors.
- Garden Salad – A light garden salad adds freshness and balances the heartiness of the soup.
- Spinach Salad – Spinach topped with nuts and feta provides a nutritious contrast.
Top with Cheese
- Shredded Cheddar – Sprinkle on some shredded cheddar cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
- Parmesan Cheese – Grated Parmesan adds a nutty taste that enhances the dish.
Serve with Toppings
- Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream can add creaminess to each bowl.
- Chopped Green Onions – Fresh green onions bring brightness and crunch to the soup.
How to Perfect Stuffed Pepper Soup
Perfecting stuffed pepper soup involves careful preparation and attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Always opt for fresh bell peppers and herbs for the best flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning – Taste as you go and adjust the salt, pepper, and seasoning to your preference.
- Simmer Longer – Allowing the soup to simmer longer develops deeper flavors; just be cautious not to overcook the vegetables.
- Customize Your Meat – Feel free to substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Add More Veggies – Incorporating other vegetables like zucchini or corn can add more nutrition and texture.
- Store Properly – If you have leftovers, store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days.
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:
- Garlic Toast – Crunchy garlic toast is perfect for soaking up every last drop of soup.
- Cheesy Nachos – Crispy nachos topped with melted cheese make an indulgent side treat.
- Coleslaw – A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and tanginess, balancing the rich flavors of the soup.
- Cornbread Muffins – Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to the savory soup.
- Bruschetta – Tomato bruschetta offers a fresh, vibrant addition that pairs well with tomato-based soups.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned roasted veggies complement the dish while adding extra nutrients.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making stuffed pepper soup can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can impact its flavor and texture. Here are a few tips to help you avoid them.
- Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season your ground beef adequately will result in bland soup. Make sure to add salt and pepper during browning.
- Using uncooked rice: Adding uncooked rice will lead to a soupy mess. Always use cooked rice for proper texture.
- Overcooking vegetables: Cooking the onions and peppers too long can make them mushy. Sauté until just soft for the best results.
- Skipping taste tests: Not tasting your soup before serving may leave it under-seasoned. Always sample and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Not letting it simmer: Rushing the cooking process will prevent flavors from developing fully. Allow the soup to simmer for at least 15 minutes.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store stuffed pepper soup in an airtight container.
- It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with the date for reference.
Reheating Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot.
- Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally and heat until bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making stuffed pepper soup.
What is Stuffed Pepper Soup?
Stuffed pepper soup is a comforting dish made with ground beef, bell peppers, rice, and tomatoes, reflecting the classic flavors of stuffed peppers.
Can I make Stuffed Pepper Soup vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian version.
How do I enhance the flavor of Stuffed Pepper Soup?
Adding fresh herbs like basil or oregano can elevate the taste. You might also consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth.
Is it possible to make Stuffed Pepper Soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours for a hands-off meal.
Final Thoughts
Stuffed pepper soup is not only cozy but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding different vegetables or spices based on your preferences. This hearty one-pot meal is perfect for any occasion—give it a try!
Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Stuffed Pepper Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. This hearty dish combines ground beef, fresh bell peppers, and aromatic spices in a savory tomato broth that warms you from the inside out. With its rich flavors and one-pot convenience, this easy-to-make soup is both satisfying and nutritious. Enjoy it on its own or pair it with crusty bread for a delightful meal. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy dinners at home.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
- 2 cups cooked long grain white rice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked; drain excess grease.
- Add olive oil to the same pot and sauté onions and bell peppers until soft. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Combine the cooked beef with diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, optional sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a gentle boil; reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
- If serving immediately, stir in cooked rice and parsley; simmer briefly until heated through.
- Serve hot with shredded cheese if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: One-Pot Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
