Stuffed Pepper Soup is a wonderfully hearty dish, perfect for chilly days and family gatherings. Infused with the rich flavors of ground beef, fresh vegetables, and robust tomato broth, this soup transforms the classic stuffed pepper into a warm, soul-satisfying bowl. It’s both nourishing and filling, making it a favorite for many home cooks.
Why We Love This Stuffed Pepper Soup Recipe
This Stuffed Pepper Soup is more than just a delicious meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. The simplicity of the ingredients makes it accessible for any cook, while the rich and savory flavors create a dish that everyone will love. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it’s also an excellent way to use up any leftover rice or other veggies you have on hand. You can whip this up for weeknight dinners, or serve it at gatherings without a fuss. Trust us—you’ll find it hard to resist a second helping.
Ingredients for Stuffed Pepper Soup
To create this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds ground beef
- 1 1/2 cups green pepper, chopped (approximately 1 large pepper)
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 (15 oz.) cans tomato sauce
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 (14.5 oz.) cans beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 3/4 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1/2 to 1 cup water
- 1/8 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 to 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon ground pepper
- 2 cups cooked white rice
How to Make Stuffed Pepper Soup Directions
Creating your Stuffed Pepper Soup is an easy process. Here’s how you do it:
- Start by heating olive oil in a large soup pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped green peppers and onions, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté them for about 5 to 7 minutes. You want them softened and fragrant.
- Next, add the ground beef to the pan. Season it lightly with more salt and pepper. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, which should take around 7 to 10 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess grease after cooking.
- Once the meat mixture is ready, it’s time to add in the star ingredients. Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
- Now, it’s time to sweeten the pot. Add the brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and half a cup of water. Season again with 1 teaspoon of salt and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed.
- Bring the entire mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the soup simmer gently. Allow it to simmer for 30 to 40 minutes, allowing the flavors to mingle and deepen.
- When nearing the end of the cooking process, check the consistency of your soup. If it seems too thick, add an additional 1/2 cup of water to achieve your desired texture.
- To serve, place a generous scoop of hot cooked rice directly in your bowl. Ladle the steaming soup mixture over the rice. Stir it together for a perfect blend of flavors and enjoy.
How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Soup
Serving your Stuffed Pepper Soup is just as satisfying as making it. For an inviting presentation, ladle a generous portion into bowls, allowing the vibrant colors to shine through. Top each bowl with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or shredded cheese, if you prefer. Serve it hot and watch as everyone gathers around, drawn in by the rich aroma. Pair it with hearty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. If you have leftovers, refrigerate them for an ideal lunch option the next day.
Expert Tips for Perfect Stuffed Pepper Soup
Here are some expert tips to make your soup even better:
- Use the Best Ingredients: Fresh, high-quality ingredients elevate your soup’s flavor. Opt for fresh green peppers and crisp onions for added crunch.
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes while cooking. This can give your soup a delightful kick.
- Cook Rice Separately: Cooking rice separately ensures it stays fluffy and doesn’t absorb too much liquid from the soup.
- Taste as You Go: Don’t hesitate to sample your soup while it simmers. It allows you to adjust seasoning according to your preferences before serving.
- Freezing is an Option: If you’re cooking for a crowd or want to save some for later, this soup freezes exceptionally well. Just ensure it’s cooled before transferring it to an airtight container.
How to Store Stuffed Pepper Soup
Storing your Stuffed Pepper Soup is easy. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. The soup can safely remain in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Variations of Stuffed Pepper Soup
This soup is wonderfully versatile, and you can experiment with different flavors to suit your taste. Here are some variations to consider:
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with a mix of black beans, lentils, or textured vegetable protein (TVP) for a plant-based option. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it meatless.
- Spice It Up: Add cooked chorizo or Italian sausage for a flavor-packed twist. The herbs and spices in these meats can add an exciting dimension to the soup.
- Add Extra Veggies: Incorporate other vegetables such as corn, diced carrots, or zucchini. This not only enhances the nutrition of the dish but also contributes various textures.
- Different Grains: Instead of white rice, you could experiment with quinoa, barley, or wild rice for a unique texture and flavor profile.
- Creamy Twist: For a creamier texture, stir in a bit of cream or cheese towards the end of the cooking process.
FAQ about Stuffed Pepper Soup
What gives Stuffed Pepper Soup its distinct flavor?
The combination of ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a blend of spices like Worcestershire sauce and garlic creates a robust flavor profile that is characteristic of stuffed peppers.
Can I make Stuffed Pepper Soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for a few days or even frozen for later use. The flavors will develop even more with time.
Is Stuffed Pepper Soup gluten-free?
Yes, this soup can be made gluten-free by ensuring that the beef broth and any canned tomatoes used are certified gluten-free.
How can I make Stuffed Pepper Soup spicier?
To add more heat to your soup, incorporate diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes during the cooking process. Adjust according to your spice tolerance!
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in Stuffed Pepper Soup?
Yes! Brown rice can be used instead of white rice. Just keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you may want to prepare it separately and add it to the soup when serving.
Enjoy creating and sharing this delicious Stuffed Pepper Soup, perfect for any occasion!