Stuffed Pepper Soup

This Hearty Stuffed Pepper Soup combines all the delicious flavors of classic stuffed peppers in a warm, comforting bowl of soup. Packed with juicy ground beef, tender bell peppers, and a rich tomato broth, this dish is perfect for chilly nights or when you’re craving something filling yet healthy. Not only is this soup easy to prepare in one pot, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Swap out the beef for turkey, add extra veggies, or use brown rice for a fiber boost. Whether you’re meal prepping or cooking for family, this soup is guaranteed to be a hit!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 bell peppers (red, green, yellow), chopped
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup uncooked rice
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
  2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
  3. Stir in the chopped bell peppers and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
  4. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir in oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
  5. Bring to a gentle boil, then add in the uncooked rice and Worcestershire sauce. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Once the rice is tender, taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 275 kcal per serving | Servings: 6

The Origins of Stuffed Pepper Soup

Stuffed peppers themselves have been enjoyed in many cultures for centuries. From Mediterranean dolmas to Mexican chile rellenos, the concept of stuffing peppers with flavorful ingredients is a time-honored tradition. The American-style stuffed pepper typically featuring ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce baked inside a bell pepper has been a staple of home cooking for decades.

Stuffed Pepper Soup takes this concept and turns it into an easy-to-make one-pot dish. Instead of stuffing individual peppers, all the ingredients are combined in a savory broth, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully. This soup is a popular choice in homes across the U.S. because it’s both comforting and convenient.

Why You’ll Love This Soup

There are so many reasons why Stuffed Pepper Soup is a must-try dish. Here are a few highlights:

1. Easy to Make

This recipe requires minimal prep work and comes together in one pot. Unlike stuffed peppers, which require baking, this soup allows you to enjoy the same flavors with less effort.

2. Hearty and Filling

Thanks to a combination of protein from the ground beef, fiber from the bell peppers, and carbohydrates from the rice, this soup is incredibly satisfying. It’s a complete meal in a bowl, making it perfect for dinner or meal prep.

3. Packed with Flavor

With ingredients like garlic, onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, and Worcestershire sauce, every bite is loaded with deliciousness. Herbs like oregano and basil add a subtle depth of flavor.

4. Versatile and Customizable

You can easily adapt this soup to suit your dietary needs. Whether you want to make it low-carb, vegetarian, or extra spicy, there are countless ways to tweak this recipe to your liking.

5. Perfect for Meal Prep

Stuffed Pepper Soup stores well, making it a great option for batch cooking. It reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

How to Customize Stuffed Pepper Soup

One of the best things about this soup is its versatility. Here are a few ways to customize it based on your preferences or dietary needs:

1. Swap the Protein

  • Instead of ground beef, try using ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • If you prefer a plant-based version, use lentils, crumbled tofu, or a meat substitute.

2. Change the Grains

  • Classic recipes use white rice, but brown rice adds more fiber and nutrients.
  • For a low-carb version, substitute rice with cauliflower rice or omit it entirely.
  • Quinoa or barley can be used for a unique texture and added protein.

3. Make It Spicy

  • If you like heat, add crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños.
  • Use spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef for a bolder flavor.

4. Boost the Vegetables

  • Add diced carrots, celery, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition.
  • Mushrooms can add a meaty texture if you’re making a vegetarian version.

5. Try Different Broths

  • Beef broth provides a rich, deep flavor, but you can use chicken or vegetable broth as well.
  • For a thicker consistency, blend some of the soup before serving.

Nutritional Benefits of Stuffed Pepper Soup

This soup is not just delicious it’s also nutritious! Here’s why:

1. High in Protein

Thanks to the ground beef (or turkey), this soup is an excellent source of protein, which helps keep you full and supports muscle health.

2. Rich in Vitamins and Antioxidants

Bell peppers are packed with vitamin C, which supports immunity, and vitamin A, which promotes healthy skin and eyes. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.

3. Good Source of Fiber

Rice and bell peppers add fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.

4. Balanced Meal

This soup provides a good mix of protein, carbs, and healthy fats, making it a well-rounded meal that satisfies hunger.

Cooking Tips for the Best Stuffed Pepper Soup

To ensure that your Stuffed Pepper Soup turns out perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:

1. Brown the Meat First

Sautéing the ground beef with onions and garlic adds depth of flavor. Be sure to drain excess fat if necessary.

2. Let the Flavors Develop

Simmering the soup for at least 20-30 minutes allows the flavors to blend together beautifully.

3. Adjust Seasonings to Taste

Taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. A dash of hot sauce or extra Worcestershire sauce can enhance the flavor.

4. Add the Rice at the Right Time

If using uncooked rice, add it early so it has time to cook in the broth. If using pre-cooked rice, stir it in at the end to prevent it from getting mushy.

5. Make It Ahead

This soup tastes even better the next day! If making it in advance, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions

Stuffed Pepper Soup is a complete meal on its own, but here are a few ideas to make it even better:

  • Serve with Crusty Bread – A warm, crusty loaf pairs beautifully with this soup.
  • Top with Cheese – A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Parmesan adds extra richness.
  • Add a Dollop of Sour Cream – A little sour cream or Greek yogurt can make it creamy and tangy.
  • Pair with a Side Salad – A simple green salad adds freshness and balances out the meal.

Conclusion:

Stuffed Pepper Soup is a flavorful, satisfying dish that captures all the goodness of traditional stuffed peppers in an easy-to-make, one-pot meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving a cozy and nourishing dish, this soup is a fantastic choice.

With its rich flavors, hearty texture, and endless customization options, it’s no wonder that this recipe has become a favorite in many households. Give it a try, and enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of deliciousness!

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