Hearty Stuffed Pepper Soup

Why Make This Recipe

Hearty Stuffed Pepper Soup is a delicious way to enjoy the classic flavors of stuffed peppers in soup form. This dish combines ground beef, fresh vegetables, and spices to create a comforting and filling meal. It’s perfect for chilly days when you crave something warm and satisfying. With its simplicity and bold flavors, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your home.

How to Make Hearty Stuffed Pepper Soup

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 lb lean ground beef (can substitute with ground turkey or chicken)
• 1 small yellow onion, diced finely
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 0.5 tsp sea salt
• 0.25 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 medium red bell pepper, diced into 1/2" pieces
• 1 medium green bell pepper, diced into 1/2" pieces
• 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
• 1 15 oz can tomato sauce
• 2 cups beef broth (can substitute with chicken or vegetable broth)
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 0.5 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 cups cooked parboiled long-grain rice (can substitute with quinoa or cauliflower rice)
• 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
2. Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic and cook until the onion softens.
3. Season with sea salt and black pepper.
4. Add the diced red and green bell peppers to the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth; stir well.
6. Mix in the Italian seasoning and cayenne pepper, adjusting the spice level to taste.
7. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes.
8. Stir in the cooked rice until heated through.
9. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Pro Tip: For an extra kick, add some shredded cheese on top before serving.

How to Serve Hearty Stuffed Pepper Soup

Serve this soup hot in bowls. You can add a sprinkle of cheese on top for extra flavor. A piece of crusty bread or a simple side salad pairs well with this hearty meal. Enjoy it as a cozy dinner or a satisfying lunch.

How to Store Hearty Stuffed Pepper Soup

To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Tips to Make Hearty Stuffed Pepper Soup

• Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
• Adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more or less cayenne pepper.
• For a healthier option, substitute the rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice.
• Don’t skip the parsley garnish; it adds freshness to the dish.

Variation

You can switch up the proteins by using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also add other vegetables like corn or zucchini to enhance the soup’s nutritional value and flavor.

FAQs

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can prepare this soup in a slow cooker. Brown the meat and onion first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Is this soup suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This soup holds up well in the fridge and freezer, making it great for meal prep.

Can I use canned bell peppers instead of fresh ones?
While fresh bell peppers offer better texture and flavor, you can use canned bell peppers in a pinch. Just rinse and drain them before adding them to the pot.