Stuffed Pepper Soup
Stuffed pepper soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This easy-to-make, hearty meal is perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings with friends. With its vibrant mix of flavors from ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a rich tomato broth, stuffed pepper soup is sure to become a favorite in your household. Plus, it’s versatile enough for any occasion, whether it’s a chilly night or a casual get-together.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and veggies, this soup will keep you satisfied.
- Easy One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal.
- Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or swap in different proteins based on what you have on hand.
- Quick Preparation: With just 40 minutes from start to finish, this recipe fits perfectly into any busy schedule.
- Leftover Friendly: The flavors develop even more after sitting, making leftovers taste incredible.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven: Ideal for browning meat and simmering soups evenly. Its heavy base ensures consistent heat distribution.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp chef’s knife is essential for quick and safe chopping of vegetables and meat.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for balancing flavors in your stuffed pepper soup.
Ingredients
Stuffed pepper soup is a cozy and hearty one-pot dinner loaded with ground beef, onions, bell peppers, and rice in a rustic tomato-based broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. lean ground beef
– 1 tablespoon olive oil, divided
– 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced (about 1/2 cup)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
– 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
– 2 (14.5 oz.) cans diced tomatoes
– 1 (15 oz.) can tomato sauce
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar, or to taste (optional, see notes)
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups cooked long grain white rice
– 2 tablespoons fresh Italian parsley, chopped
– Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese, for serving (optional)
How to Make Stuffed Pepper Soup
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the ground beef. Break up any clumps as it cooks. Drain any excess grease if necessary. Season the beef with salt and pepper to taste before removing it from the pot.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
Saute the diced onion and bell peppers in 1 tablespoon of olive oil until soft—about five minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another thirty seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Stir in the cooked beef along with diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add Worcestershire sauce, sugar (if using), and Italian seasoning. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about fifteen to twenty minutes while stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Add Rice
If you don’t plan on having leftovers, stir in the cooked rice along with parsley. Simmer until heated through—around one to two minutes. If you plan on saving some for later, stir in parsley without adding rice until serving each individual bowl.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Dish out the soup hot into bowls garnished with shredded cheese if desired.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Savor every warm spoonful of this delicious stuffed pepper soup!
How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Soup
Serving stuffed pepper soup is easy and allows for creativity. This hearty dish can be enjoyed in various ways to enhance its flavors and presentation.
With Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette pairs perfectly, allowing you to soak up the delicious broth.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic flavor complements the soup nicely and adds a satisfying crunch.
Topped with Cheese
- Shredded Cheddar: Melted cheddar on top adds creaminess and a rich taste that enhances the meal.
- Parmesan Flakes: A sprinkle of parmesan gives a salty contrast that elevates the overall flavor profile.
Garnished with Herbs
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Basil Leaves: Fresh basil can provide an aromatic touch, making each bowl feel more gourmet.
Served Over Rice
- Rice Variation: Serving the soup over white or brown rice makes it heartier and can help absorb the flavors better.
How to Perfect Stuffed Pepper Soup
To make your stuffed pepper soup even more delightful, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will elevate the flavor compared to canned options.
- Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving; adjust salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning as desired.
- Add Heat: If you like spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
- Make It Ahead: Preparing the soup a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully overnight.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to three days for best results.
- Experiment with Proteins: Try substituting ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this comforting dish.
Best Side Dishes for Stuffed Pepper Soup
Pairing side dishes with your stuffed pepper soup can enhance the meal experience. Here are some great options.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, they make perfect dippers for your soup’s rich broth.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing adds a refreshing crunch alongside the warmth of the soup.
- Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to the savory soup flavors.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: These bite-sized delights add an earthy element that complements the soup well.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Classic grilled cheese sandwiches are always a hit; their gooey texture pairs wonderfully with soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables brings additional nutrients and vibrant colors to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making stuffed pepper soup, even small missteps can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the beef and vegetables properly can lead to bland soup. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper levels during cooking.
- Overcooking the rice: If you add rice too early, it can become mushy. Stir in cooked rice just before serving for the best texture.
- Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality canned tomatoes or broth can impact flavor. Opt for high-quality options for a richer taste.
- Neglecting simmer time: Rushing the simmering process won’t allow flavors to meld. Give it at least 15-20 minutes to develop a deeper taste.
- Not storing correctly: Improper storage can lead to spoilage. Always store leftovers in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover stuffed pepper soup in an airtight container.
- It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It stays fresh for up to 3 months.
Reheating Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat soup in an oven-safe dish until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals, stirring between until hot.
- Stovetop: Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many people have questions about making stuffed pepper soup. Here are some of the most common:
Can I make Stuffed Pepper Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare stuffed pepper soup a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when ready to serve.
Is there a vegetarian version of Stuffed Pepper Soup?
Absolutely! You can replace ground beef with lentils or beans and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
How do I customize Stuffed Pepper Soup?
Feel free to add other veggies like corn or zucchini for extra nutrition. You can also spice it up with chili powder or hot sauce.
What should I serve with Stuffed Pepper Soup?
This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Stuffed pepper soup is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with various ingredients based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings!
Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Stuffed Pepper Soup is a comforting, one-pot dish that combines the rich flavors of ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, and hearty tomatoes into a warm and satisfying meal. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this easy-to-make soup is both nutritious and delicious. With just 40 minutes from start to finish, it’s an ideal solution for busy weeknights. Plus, its customizable nature allows you to add your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it versatile enough for any occasion. Enjoy every spoonful of this flavor-packed dish that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked long-grain white rice
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain excess grease and season with salt and pepper.
- Add olive oil and sauté the diced onion and bell peppers until soft (about five minutes). Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another thirty seconds.
- Combine the beef back into the pot with diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix in Worcestershire sauce and Italian seasoning; adjust seasoning as needed.
- Bring to a gentle boil then reduce heat and let simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Stir in cooked rice if serving immediately; otherwise, add rice when serving individual bowls.
- Serve hot with optional garnishes like shredded cheese or fresh herbs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
