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Best Stuffed Pepper Soup

Best Stuffed Pepper Soup

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When winter approaches and the chill in the air grows sharper, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a bowl of hearty soup. This Stuffed Pepper Soup brings all the flavors of traditional stuffed peppers into a single pot, blending savory beef, sweet bell peppers, and tangy tomatoes with the comforting texture of rice. It’s nostalgic, filling, and perfect for cozy evenings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Comfort in a Bowl: It combines the best parts of stuffed peppers without the hassle of stuffing.
  • Rich, Balanced Flavors: Sweet bell peppers, savory beef, and the robust umami of tomatoes create a harmonious blend.
  • Customizable: Adjust the seasoning, add more vegetables, or swap the rice for a grain of your choice.

Ingredients

Soup Base

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 yellow onion, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cans diced tomatoes (14.5 oz each)
  • 1 can tomato sauce (15 oz)
  • 1 can low-sodium beef broth (14.5 oz)

Seasonings

  • A handful of fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Additions

  • 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
  • Shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella), optional for topping

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.
  3. Transfer the cooked beef to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the pot.
  2. Toss in the chopped onion and bell peppers, sautéing for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

  1. Return the cooked beef to the pot.
  2. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth.
  3. Stir in the parsley, basil, and oregano.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Step 4: Prepare the Rice

  1. While the soup simmers, cook the rice according to package instructions.
  2. Once the soup is done, you can either stir the cooked rice into the pot or serve it on the side to be added individually.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
  2. If desired, top with shredded cheese and a sprinkle of parsley for added flavor and presentation.

Tips for the Perfect Stuffed Pepper Soup

  1. Separate the Rice for Leftovers
    If you plan to store leftovers, keep the rice separate to prevent it from absorbing too much liquid and becoming mushy.
  2. Make It Your Own
    • Add diced zucchini or corn for extra veggies.
    • Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a healthier or vegetarian option.
  3. Adjust the Consistency
    For a thinner soup, use less rice or add more broth.
  4. Cheese Topping
    For extra indulgence, melt shredded cheese over each serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use uncooked rice in the soup?

Yes, you can add uncooked rice directly to the soup. Simply add an extra cup of broth to account for the liquid the rice will absorb.

2. Can I freeze this soup?

Absolutely! Just freeze the soup without the rice for best results. Add freshly cooked rice when reheating.

3. What other grains can I use instead of rice?

Quinoa, farro, or even small pasta like orzo work wonderfully as substitutes.

Conclusion

This Stuffed Pepper Soup is the ultimate comfort food, bringing the classic flavors of stuffed peppers into an easy, one-pot recipe. It’s hearty, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or preparing a batch for meal prep, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal, and enjoy the cozy vibes it brings!

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