Stuffed Pepper Soup Recipe
Description
Stuffed Pepper Soup captures all the comforting flavors of classic stuffed peppers—tender bell peppers, hearty ground beef, tomatoes, rice, and savory seasonings—transformed into a warm, satisfying soup. This easy one-pot dish is perfect for chilly evenings or when you want a cozy, home-cooked meal without all the stuffing and baking. The rich tomato broth blends beautifully with the sweetness of the peppers and the heartiness of the beef, making it a true comfort in a bowl.
Ingredients
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1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef (or turkey for a lighter version)
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 medium onion, diced
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3 bell peppers (red, green, yellow), diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
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1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
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4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth)
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1 cup cooked white or brown rice
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1 tsp dried basil
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
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½ tsp black pepper
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¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
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1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
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Cook the Beef:
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed. -
Sauté Vegetables:
Add diced onions, bell peppers, and garlic to the pot. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant. -
Add Tomatoes and Broth:
Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings (basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes). Mix well. -
Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. -
Add Rice:
Stir in the cooked rice and simmer for another 5–10 minutes to allow flavors to blend. -
Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy with a slice of crusty bread.
Notes
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You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for beef.
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To prevent rice from getting mushy, add it just before serving if you plan to store leftovers.
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For a low-carb version, replace rice with cauliflower rice.
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This soup freezes beautifully—cool completely before storing in freezer-safe containers.
Tips
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Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar to balance the tomato acidity.
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For extra richness, stir in a little parmesan cheese or a dollop of sour cream before serving.
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Use fire-roasted diced tomatoes for a smoky, deeper flavor.
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Double the recipe—it tastes even better the next day!
Servings
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Serves: 6
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Cook Time: 40 minutes
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Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
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Calories: 280
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Protein: 22 g
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Carbohydrates: 25 g
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Fat: 10 g
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Fiber: 4 g
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Sodium: 780 mg
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Sugars: 7 g
(Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.)
Health Benefits
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High in protein – keeps you full longer.
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Rich in vitamin C from bell peppers for immune support.
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Fiber-packed – promotes good digestion.
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Balanced meal – includes vegetables, protein, and grains.
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Low in fat (especially with lean meat or turkey).
Questions & Answers
Q1: Can I use uncooked rice in the soup?
A1: Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time by 15–20 minutes and add an extra cup of broth to ensure the rice cooks fully.
Q2: How long does stuffed pepper soup last in the fridge?
A2: Store it in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Q3: Can I freeze it?
A3: Absolutely! Cool the soup completely, portion into containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Q4: What should I serve with stuffed pepper soup?
A4: It pairs perfectly with crusty bread, cornbread, garlic toast, or a simple side salad.
Q5: Can I make it vegetarian?
A5: Yes—use vegetable broth and swap ground beef with lentils, quinoa, or plant-based meat.