STUFFED PEPPER SOUP

As the days grow cooler and the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and gold, it’s the perfect time to cozy up with a warm and hearty meal. Enter Stuffed Pepper Soup—a delightful twist on the classic stuffed peppers, transformed into a comforting, spoonable version. This soup captures all the flavors of the traditional dish with none of the fuss, making it an ideal choice for any weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Stuffed Pepper Soup is a winner for so many reasons. First, it brings together the rich, savory flavors of ground beef, tomatoes, and bell peppers in one pot. It’s also incredibly customizable; you can adjust the thickness by adding more or less rice. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep, as the flavors deepen even more the next day!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Plate lined with paper towels

Ingredients

• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 2 Tbsp olive oil, divided
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 1 small yellow onion, chopped (1 cup)
• 3/4 cup chopped red bell pepper (a little over 1/2 of a medium)
• 3/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 (14.5 oz) cans petite diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5 oz) can beef broth
• 2 1/2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/4 tsp dried oregano
• 1 cup uncooked long grain white or brown rice (I’ve tried and like both)
• Cheddar or mozzarella cheese, for serving (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat 1 Tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the beef and season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally and breaking up the beef, until browned. Drain the beef and transfer it onto a plate lined with paper towels. Set aside.
2. Heat the remaining 1 Tbsp of olive oil in the pot. Add the onions, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Sauté for 3 minutes, then add the garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds.
3. Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add the parsley, basil, oregano, and cooked beef. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a light boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 30 minutes.
4. While the soup simmers, prepare the rice according to the package instructions. Once the soup has finished simmering, stir in the desired amount of cooked rice into the soup.
5. Serve warm, topped with optional cheese and garnished with fresh parsley.

Tips for Success

• For a thinner soup, don’t add all of the rice. For a thicker, heartier soup, add it all.
• If planning for leftovers, add the rice to each individual bowl rather than the pot. Store the rice separately to prevent it from becoming mushy.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian option.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

While exact nutritional values can vary, this soup is a great source of protein and vitamins from the peppers and tomatoes. Using brown rice can also increase the fiber content.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store the rice separately and add it when you’re ready to serve.

How can I store leftovers?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the rice in a separate container to maintain its texture.

Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Conclusion

Stuffed Pepper Soup is a cozy and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Easy to prepare and wonderfully satisfying, it promises a delightful meal for any occasion. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out for you! We’d love to hear your thoughts and any twists you might have added to make it your own.