Homemade Stuffed Pepper Soup is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together all the delicious flavors of traditional stuffed peppers in the form of a hearty soup. This dish is a perfect way to enjoy the delicious combination of ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and bell peppers in a warm, savory broth. It’s a cozy, filling soup that’s perfect for chilly days, meal prep, or when you’re craving something comforting but easy to make.
The beauty of Stuffed Pepper Soup lies in its simplicity and versatility. It captures all the savory, slightly sweet flavors of stuffed peppers without the need to stuff each pepper individually. By simmering everything in one pot, the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a rich, flavorful broth that is perfect for slurping up on a cold evening. This soup is also a great option for a family meal, as it’s easy to make in large batches and will satisfy even the hungriest appetites.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter version)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bell peppers, chopped (any color)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
- 4 cups beef or vegetable broth (low-sodium recommended)
- 1/2 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for depth of flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Shredded cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove any excess fat from the pot and set the cooked beef aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the chopped bell peppers and sauté for 4-5 minutes until they begin to soften. The peppers will release some of their juices, adding flavor to the soup base.
- Add the Liquids and Seasoning:
- Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and tomato paste. Add the beef or vegetable broth, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, smoked paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add the Rice and Simmer:
- Add the uncooked rice to the pot and stir to combine. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and tender. If the soup becomes too thick, add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce if needed. If you like a little extra kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. For an added indulgence, top with some shredded cheese (such as cheddar or mozzarella) and let it melt into the warm soup.
Why You’ll Love Homemade Stuffed Pepper Soup:
Hearty and Filling: This soup is loaded with ground beef, rice, and vegetables, making it a complete meal in one bowl. It’s comforting and satisfying, perfect for those days when you need a filling meal that doesn’t take too long to prepare.
All the Flavors of Stuffed Peppers: If you love traditional stuffed peppers, this soup gives you all the same delicious flavors but without the work of stuffing each pepper. The bell peppers soften in the broth, adding a sweet, tender texture that pairs perfectly with the savory beef and rice.
One-Pot Meal: This recipe is made in one pot, so it’s easy to prepare and easy to clean up afterward. It’s a no-fuss meal that doesn’t require much time or effort but still delivers great flavor.
Customizable: You can easily customize the soup to your preferences. Add more veggies like zucchini, corn, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture. You can also make it with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or swap in quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
Meal Prep Friendly: This soup makes great leftovers and is perfect for meal prep. The flavors improve as it sits, so it’s an excellent option for make-ahead lunches or dinners. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Tips for Success:
- Use Lean Meat: Ground beef is traditional in this soup, but using lean ground turkey or chicken is a great way to lighten it up. If you use lean meat, you might want to add a little extra olive oil when sautéing the vegetables to ensure the soup has enough richness.
- Perfect Rice: White rice tends to cook quickly and easily in this soup, but if you use brown rice, it will take a little longer to cook. You may need to add a little extra broth or water to ensure the rice cooks properly. You can also cook the rice separately and add it at the end if you prefer.
- Add Extra Veggies: If you want to pack in more vegetables, you can easily add chopped zucchini, carrots, corn, or even some spinach or kale for extra nutrients. Just throw them in with the bell peppers to soften and cook.
- Broth Consistency: The soup will thicken as the rice absorbs liquid, so if you prefer a thinner broth, feel free to add more broth or water as it cooks. Keep an eye on the consistency to ensure it’s just how you like it.
Nutrition Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 350-400 kcal
- Protein: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fiber: 3-5g
- Net Carbs: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Saturated Fat: 5-7g
- Cholesterol: 50-70mg
- Sodium: 600-700mg (depending on broth and seasoning)
- Calcium: 50-80mg
- Iron: 3-4mg
Homemade Stuffed Pepper Soup is a delicious, hearty meal that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner, a meal prep option, or a satisfying dish to feed a crowd, this soup has it all. With its tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and comforting broth, it brings all the classic stuffed pepper flavors to the table in a simple, one-pot form. Enjoy a bowl of this soup today, and let it become a new favorite in your recipe rotation!
