This cozy stuffed bell pepper soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It features juicy bell peppers, hearty ground meat, and lots of tasty veggies, all simmered in a flavorful broth.
I love how easy it is to make, and it’s perfect for when I want something comforting. Plus, you can even top it with cheese—yum! Who doesn’t love a cheesy soup? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef is great for flavor, but I often swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Feel free to use plant-based meat if you’re looking for a vegetarian choice!
Bell Peppers: I love using a mix of green, red, and yellow peppers for color and sweetness. If you have only one kind, go with that! You can also use diced zucchini or mushrooms if you’re looking to switch things up.
Rice: White rice makes this soup hearty. If you want a healthier twist, try brown rice or quinoa, but remember, cooking times may vary a bit.
Beef Broth: For a vegetarian version, swap beef broth for vegetable broth. Homemade broth enhances the flavor, but store-bought works just fine too!
How Do You Ensure Your Soup is Flavorful?
A big part of making this soup tasty is building flavors step-by-step. Start by cooking the beef until it’s nicely browned; this adds that deeper flavor.
- Don’t rush adding the onions and garlic; let them cook until the onion is clear for the best flavor.
- Don’t skip the herbs and spices; they bring the soup to life! Adjust based on what you enjoy—more herbs mean more flavor.
- Simmer it long enough for the rice to absorb all the broth. If it seems too thick, just add a bit more broth or water.
Delicious Stuffed Bell Pepper Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Soup:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and roughly 30 minutes to cook. So, you’ll be enjoying your hearty soup in about 45 minutes total. Perfect for a cozy evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. If there’s a lot of grease, drain some of it off.
2. Add Aromatics:
Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook this mixture for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes nice and translucent, making the kitchen smell amazing!
3. Incorporate the Peppers:
Next, go ahead and add the diced bell peppers all at once. Cook them for 3-5 minutes until they start to soften.
4. Combine Ingredients:
Now it’s time to add in the uncooked rice, canned diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, and the beef or vegetable broth. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Season the Soup:
Sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir to mix the seasonings evenly.
6. Let It Simmer:
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow it to simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed plenty of flavor from the broth.
7. Final Taste Adjustments:
After the soup is cooked, take a moment to taste your creation. Adjust any seasonings by adding more salt or pepper if you feel it needs it!
8. Serve & Garnish:
Using a ladle, serve the delicious soup into bowls. Don’t forget to garnish each serving with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
9. Optional Toppings:
If you want to make it extra special, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top or add a dollop of sour cream.
Enjoy your comforting and hearty Stuffed Bell Pepper Soup! It’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Cooked Rice Instead of Uncooked?
Absolutely! If you have cooked rice on hand, you can add it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking to heat it through. Just remember to reduce the simmering time for the soup accordingly!
How Long Does Leftover Soup Last?
Leftover Stuffed Bell Pepper Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating it.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup! Cool it completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for about 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it gently on the stove or microwave.
What Should I Serve With Stuffed Bell Pepper Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh side salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of cheese quesadillas or grilled cheese sandwiches!
