Stuffed Pepper Soup

Stuffed Pepper Soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This hearty one-pot dinner, loaded with ground beef, fresh vegetables, and rice in a savory tomato-based broth, is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or as a potluck contribution, this stuffed pepper soup will impress everyone with its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: With just one pot and simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The combination of ground beef, bell peppers, and tomatoes creates a mouthwatering flavor that warms the soul.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your soup by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices to suit your taste.
• Healthy and Filling: Packed with proteins and nutrients, this soup makes for a wholesome meal that will keep you satisfied.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This recipe makes enough to feed a crowd, and it tastes even better the next day!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making stuffed pepper soup, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups evenly without burning.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate ingredient amounts for perfect results.
• Knife: A sharp knife helps dice vegetables quickly and safely.

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 lean ground beef. Break up any clumps as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess grease if necessary. Season the beef with salt and pepper to taste before removing it from the pot.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In the same pot, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté diced onions and finely chopped bell peppers until they soften—about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Stir in cooked ground beef along with diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Season with Worcestershire sauce, sugar (if using), and Italian seasoning. Taste the mixture; adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 15–20 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Add Rice

If you’re not planning on having leftovers, stir in cooked rice along with chopped parsley. Simmer until heated through—around 1–2 minutes. If saving some for later, mix parsley into each individual bowl of soup when served.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Dish out portions of stuffed pepper soup while it’s hot. Garnish each bowl with shredded cheese if desired.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Savor every spoonful of this delicious stuffed pepper soup! Perfectly warm and comforting!

How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Soup

Stuffed pepper soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a cozy get-together, here are some delightful suggestions to enhance your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Italian Parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a burst of color and flavor.
• Basil Leaves: Fresh basil leaves provide an aromatic touch that complements the soup’s ingredients.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread: Its tangy flavor pairs wonderfully with the savory soup.
• Garlic Bread: Adds a buttery, garlicky crunch that is absolutely irresistible.

Serve with Cheese

• Shredded Cheddar: Melts beautifully on top, adding creaminess and richness.
• Mozzarella: Offers a mild flavor that balances the soup’s hearty ingredients.

Add a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with creamy dressing provides a fresh contrast.
• Garden Salad: A mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers for a light touch.

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How to Perfect Stuffed Pepper Soup

To make your stuffed pepper soup truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Lean Meat: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the dish lighter without sacrificing flavor.
• Adjust Tomato Flavor: Taste the broth and add more tomato sauce or diced tomatoes if you prefer it richer.
• Simmer Longer: Allow the soup to simmer longer for deeper flavors; just keep an eye on the rice if added early.
• Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to add spices like cumin or paprika for an extra kick.
• Add More Veggies: Incorporating corn or zucchini can enhance both nutrition and texture.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Pepper Soup

Serving stuffed pepper soup is made even better with complementary side dishes. Here are some fantastic options to consider:

1. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these are perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
2. Cheesy Quesadillas: Crispy tortillas filled with cheese offer a delightful crunch alongside the soup.
3. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet and crumbly cornbread enhances the savory notes of the soup.
4. Roasted Veggies: Seasoned seasonal vegetables provide additional nutrients and flavors.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy wedges seasoned with herbs pair well with the warmth of the soup.
6. Rice Pilaf: Lightly seasoned rice offers a nice complement while keeping it filling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Stuffed pepper soup is simple to make, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are mistakes you should avoid to ensure a delicious result.

• Using too much water: Adding excess liquid can dilute the flavors. Stick to the recommended amounts of broth and tomato sauce.
• Skipping the seasoning: Neglecting to season your soup can lead to blandness. Taste as you cook, adjusting salt, pepper, and spices as needed.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking onions and peppers too long can make them mushy. Sauté just until they’re soft for the best texture.
• Not letting it simmer: Rushing through the cooking process may prevent the flavors from developing fully. Allow at least 15-20 minutes of simmering.
• Forgetting about leftovers: Not storing or reheating leftovers properly can spoil your meal. Ensure you follow storage guidelines for freshness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Let it cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Stuffed Pepper Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave space at the top of containers for expansion during freezing.

Reheating Stuffed Pepper Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a saucepan until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about stuffed pepper soup that might help enhance your cooking experience.

What can I add to my Stuffed Pepper Soup?

You can customize your stuffed pepper soup by adding ingredients like corn, black beans, or different types of meat.

Can I make Stuffed Pepper Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute ground beef with lentils or quinoa and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

How do I thicken Stuffed Pepper Soup?

To thicken your soup, add a slurry of cornstarch and water or some mashed potatoes while it simmers.

Can I use other types of rice in Stuffed Pepper Soup?

Absolutely! You can use brown rice, jasmine rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Final Thoughts

Stuffed pepper soup is a warm and comforting dish perfect for any night of the week. It’s versatile and allows for many customization options based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you’re enjoying it as leftovers or sharing it with friends, this recipe is sure to delight everyone at your table!