Stuffed Pepper Soup

🥣 Stuffed Pepper Soup

Description

Stuffed Pepper Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that captures all the delicious flavors of traditional stuffed peppers—ground beef, bell peppers, tomatoes, and rice—in a warm, savory soup form. It’s rich, satisfying, and perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep. This one-pot meal brings comfort food to your table with minimal effort!

🍅 Ingredients

Serves: 6–8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: ~55 minutes

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for sautéing)

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 3 bell peppers (any color, chopped)

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth)

• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)

• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for umami flavor)

Optional Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped

• Shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack)

• A dollop of sour cream

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Brown the meat:
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.

2. Add vegetables:
   Add onion, garlic, and chopped bell peppers to the pot. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes until softened.

3. Add liquids and seasoning:
   Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, broth, Worcestershire sauce, and all seasonings. Mix well.

4. Simmer:
   Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 25–30 minutes to allow flavors to blend.

5. Add cooked rice:
   Stir in the cooked rice. Simmer for another 5–10 minutes.

6. Taste and adjust:
   Add more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.

7. Serve:
   Ladle into bowls and top with parsley and shredded cheese, if desired.

💡 Notes & Tips

• Rice: If you plan to store leftovers, add rice to individual servings instead of the whole pot to prevent sogginess.

• Protein Options: Substitute beef with ground chicken, turkey, or plant-based crumbles.

• Vegetarian Version: Use veggie broth and skip the meat. Add beans or lentils for protein.

• Spice Level: For a kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or diced jalapeño.

• Freezer Friendly: This soup freezes well (without rice). Cool, portion, and freeze up to 3 months.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple green salad.

• Top with shredded cheese or sour cream for a creamy texture.

• Pair with a glass of red wine or iced tea for balance.

🧮 Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

(Based on 6 servings, using lean beef and white rice)

🌿 Health Benefits

1. Rich in Vitamins: Bell peppers provide Vitamin C, A, and antioxidants.

2. High Protein: Helps with muscle repair and satiety.

3. Low-Calorie Comfort Food: Lighter than traditional stuffed peppers but just as filling.

4. Immune Support: Garlic, peppers, and tomatoes support immunity.

5. Heart Health: Can be made low-sodium and with lean protein options.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q1. Can I make Stuffed Pepper Soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the meat first, then add all ingredients (except rice) to your slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours. Stir in cooked rice just before serving.

Q2. Can I use uncooked rice instead of cooked rice?
You can, but add ½ cup uncooked rice and an extra 1 cup broth. Simmer for about 20 more minutes or until rice is tender.

Q3. How long does Stuffed Pepper Soup last in the fridge?
Up to 4 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

Q4. Can I make it dairy-free or gluten-free?
Yes, the soup is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce. Skip cheese or sour cream for a dairy-free version.

Q5. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Zucchini, corn, or carrots make great additions.