Stuffed Pepper Soup

How to Make Stuffed Pepper Soup

Step 1: Cook the Ground Meat

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once the meat is cooked through, drain any excess fat.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, bell peppers, and minced garlic to the pot with the cooked meat. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes, or until they begin to soften and become fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Add the oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If the soup gets too thick for your liking, you can add a little extra broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Add the Rice

Once the soup has simmered and the flavors have blended, stir in the cooked rice. Let the soup cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat the rice through. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning, if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or spices to your preference.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the soup hot, topped with a sprinkle of grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness. Pair it with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad to make it a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Pepper Soup

• Use Your Favorite Meat: While this recipe calls for ground beef, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add extra vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or corn to make the soup even heartier and more colorful.
• Make It Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes, or add a diced jalapeño pepper when sautéing the vegetables.
• Use Brown Rice: For a more nutritious option, try using brown rice instead of white rice. Brown rice adds extra fiber and makes the soup even more filling.
• Vegetarian Option: To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the meat and substitute vegetable broth for a plant-based protein, such as lentils or tofu. The soup will still be just as flavorful!
• Slow Cooker Option: If you prefer a hands-off approach, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables, then transfer them to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 4-6 hours, and add the rice about 30 minutes before serving.

Storing and Freezing Stuffed Pepper Soup

If you have leftovers or want to make this dish ahead of time, you’re in luck. Stuffed Pepper Soup stores and freezes wonderfully:

• In the Refrigerator: Let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• In the Freezer: For long-term storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and heat on the stove or in the microwave.

Why Stuffed Pepper Soup is the Ultimate Comfort Food

Stuffed Pepper Soup is the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out. It’s rich, flavorful, and packed with all the ingredients that make stuffed peppers so satisfying, but without the fuss of stuffing and baking them. Plus, it’s an easy way to get more vegetables and lean protein into your diet, making it both a nourishing and hearty meal.

Whether you’re feeding a family, looking for a simple weeknight dinner, or prepping meals for the week, this soup is versatile, quick, and always satisfying. With its comforting combination of veggies, protein, and rice, it’s a meal that brings the whole family to the table.

Conclusion

Stuffed Pepper Soup is a delicious and wholesome dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its combination of bell peppers, ground meat, rice, and a savory tomato base, it’s a meal that offers both comfort and nutrition. Plus, it’s quick to make and can be easily customized to suit your tastes. Try this recipe today and enjoy a bowl of cozy, satisfying goodness!