Stuffed pepper soup is a cozy dish. It combines the classic flavors of stuffed peppers in a hearty, easy-to-make soup. This soup combines tender ground beef, bell peppers, tomatoes, rice, and tasty seasonings. It’s great for chilly days or when you want a quick, satisfying meal.
This article covers all you need to know about stuffed pepper soup. You’ll find cooking tips, variations, nutritional facts, and answers to common questions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick and Easy – No need to stuff individual peppers!
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One-Pot Meal – Fewer dishes to clean up.
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Packed with Flavor – Savory ground beef, sweet bell peppers, and rich tomatoes make a satisfying combination.
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Customizable – Easily adjust ingredients to fit your preferences.
Ingredients List
To make a delicious stuffed pepper soup, you will need:
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Ground beef – Lean ground beef works best. You can also use ground turkey or chicken.
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Bell peppers – A mix of red, green, or yellow for a variety of flavors.
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Onion – Adds depth to the soup.
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Garlic – Enhances the flavor.
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Diced tomatoes – Canned or fresh tomatoes work great.
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Tomato sauce – Thickens the soup and adds richness.
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Beef broth – Provides a hearty base.
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Cooked rice – White or brown rice works well.
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Seasonings – Salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
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Olive oil – For sautéing.
Timing – How Long Does It Take?
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Preparation Time: 10 minutes
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Cooking Time: 35 minutes
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Total Time: 45 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until softened.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned. Drain excess grease if needed.
Step 3: Add the Peppers
Stir in the diced bell peppers and cook for a few minutes until they begin to soften.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir everything together.
Step 5: Simmer the Soup
Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 20-30 minutes to develop the flavors.
Step 6: Add the Rice
Stir in the cooked rice and let the soup heat through for another 5 minutes.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy.
Tips for Making the Perfect Stuffed Pepper Soup
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Use fresh bell peppers for the best texture.
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Brown the meat well to add extra flavor.
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Add rice at the end to prevent it from getting mushy.
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Let the soup simmer longer for a richer taste.
You Can Try These Different Variations
1. Make It Spicy
Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
2. Use Different Proteins
Swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage.
3. Make It Low-Carb
Replace rice with cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly version.
4. Add More Vegetables
Include zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.
5. Make It Creamy
Stir in a splash of heavy cream or shredded cheese for a creamy texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Adding rice too early – It can become too soft.
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Not browning the meat – This step adds depth of flavor.
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Skipping seasonings – They make a big difference in taste.
What to Serve with Stuffed Pepper Soup
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Crusty Bread – Perfect for dipping.
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Side Salad – A fresh green salad pairs well.
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Grilled Cheese Sandwich – A comforting side dish.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
Can You Freeze Stuffed Pepper Soup?
Yes! Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
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Calories: 320
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Protein: 22g
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Carbohydrates: 35g
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Fat: 12g
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Fiber: 5g
(Values may vary based on ingredient choices.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I use uncooked rice in this soup?
Yes, but you’ll need to increase the broth amount and let it cook longer.
Q2: How do I thicken the soup?
Let it simmer longer, or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water.
Q3: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the meat first, then add everything except the rice to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours. Stir in cooked rice before serving.
Conclusion
Stuffed pepper soup is a simple, comforting meal that’s packed with flavor and easy to prepare. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try a variation, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy a warm, hearty bowl of goodness.