Stuffed Pepper Soup

Stuffed Pepper Soup: A Hearty and Comforting Bowl of Goodness 🍲🌶️🔥

1. Introduction

If you love the classic flavors of stuffed peppers but want something even heartier and easier to make, this Stuffed Pepper Soup recipe is exactly what you need! Imagine all the deliciousness of traditional stuffed peppers – the savory ground beef, sweet bell peppers, and rich tomato sauce – transformed into a warm, comforting soup that’s perfect for any night of the week. This soup is not only packed with flavor but also incredibly versatile – you can easily customize it to your taste preferences or dietary needs.

What makes this stuffed pepper soup recipe truly special is how it captures the essence of homemade comfort food while being simple enough for busy weeknights. The aroma alone will have your family gathering in the kitchen before you even call them to dinner! If you’re a fan of comforting soups like our Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup or Creamy Potato and Bacon Soup, you’ll absolutely adore this recipe.

2. Ingredients

One of the best things about this stuffed pepper soup is that it uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option – both work beautifully)
• 1 large onion, diced (yellow or white onions work best for their sweet flavor when cooked)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic makes all the difference in flavor)
• 3 bell peppers (I recommend using a mix of red, green, and yellow for color and flavor variety)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted tomatoes add extra depth if you have them)
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce (this creates the rich, tomatoey base of the soup)
• 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version – homemade or store-bought both work)
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown rice both work – see our Homemade Ramen for another great rice-based soup idea)
• 1 tsp dried oregano (this classic Italian herb adds wonderful aroma)
• 1 tsp dried basil (another essential Italian seasoning)
• 1 tsp paprika (smoked paprika adds a wonderful depth if you have it)
• Salt and black pepper to taste (don’t be shy with the seasoning!)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing the vegetables)
• Shredded cheese and fresh parsley for garnish (optional but highly recommended for extra flavor and presentation)

For those who love experimenting with different soup recipes, you might also enjoy our Cajun Potato Soup or Easy Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup as alternative comfort food options.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and translucent – this should take about 3-4 minutes. This step is crucial as it builds the flavor foundation for your stuffed pepper soup. The onions should soften but not brown too much. If you’re enjoying this cooking process, you might also love making our Easy Chicken Taco Soup, which starts with a similar aromatic base.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Now, add the ground beef to the pot with your sautéed aromatics. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat into small pieces as it cooks. You’ll want to cook it until it’s fully browned and no pink remains – this usually takes about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, you can drain it off, but leaving a little adds great flavor. The beef should be nicely crumbled and well incorporated with the onions and garlic. For another great ground beef soup recipe, check out our Easy Taco Soup.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Tomatoes

Next, stir in your diced bell peppers. The combination of different colored peppers not only makes the soup more visually appealing but also adds subtle flavor variations. Add the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices) and tomato sauce. Let this mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the peppers to begin softening and the flavors to start melding together. The tomatoes will begin to break down slightly, creating a wonderful base for your soup. If you enjoy tomato-based soups, you might also like our Slow Cooker Tomato Tortellini Soup.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Now it’s time to pour in the beef broth and add all your seasonings – oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir, then bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes. This simmering time allows all the flavors to develop and marry together beautifully. During the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in your cooked rice. The rice will absorb some of the flavorful broth while maintaining its texture. For another delicious rice-based soup, try our Creamy Alfredo Lasagna Soup.

4. Serving Suggestions

Now comes the best part – serving your delicious stuffed pepper soup! Ladle the hot soup into bowls and top with shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella work great) and a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired. The cheese will melt beautifully into the hot soup, adding a creamy richness that complements the other flavors perfectly.

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping or a simple green salad for a complete meal. It’s also fantastic with a side of garlic bread or dinner rolls. The soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers. For more comforting meal ideas, browse our Diner category for classic favorites.

5. Variations & Tips

One of the best things about this stuffed pepper soup recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some delicious variations and helpful tips:

• Vegetarian Option: Easily make this meat-free by swapping the ground beef for cooked lentils, quinoa, or plant-based crumbles. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
• Spicier Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, some diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce if you like heat.
• Slow Cooker Method: Brown the beef first, then add all ingredients (except rice) to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add cooked rice during the last 30 minutes.
• Freezing: This soup freezes exceptionally well. Cool completely, then store in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Rice Alternatives: Try using quinoa, cauliflower rice, or orzo pasta instead of traditional rice for different textures.
• Extra Vegetables: Feel free to add mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots for additional nutrition and flavor.

For more inspiration, check out this similar Stuffed Pepper Soup recipe from Cooking Classy which offers some additional variations.

6. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This stuffed pepper soup recipe has become a favorite in countless households, and here’s why:

• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love this soup! The familiar flavors of stuffed peppers in soup form make it appealing to all ages.
• Meal Prep Champion: Makes excellent leftovers and freezes beautifully for future quick meals.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients that stretch to feed a crowd.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Warm, hearty, and satisfying – perfect for cold days or when you need some culinary comfort.
• Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with protein from the beef, vitamins from the peppers, and fiber from the vegetables and rice.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor payoff.

7. Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use uncooked rice in the soup?
Yes, you can! Add an extra cup of broth and extend the simmering time by 15-20 minutes to allow the rice to cook through. Keep in mind the rice will absorb more liquid this way.

How long does stuffed pepper soup last in the fridge?
Properly stored in an airtight container, it will keep for 4-5 days in the refrigerator. The flavors actually improve over time!

Can I use frozen bell peppers?
While fresh peppers provide the best texture, frozen peppers will work in a pinch. No need to thaw – just add them directly to the pot.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much. Microwave reheating works too – stir every minute until heated through.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! Use the sauté function for browning the beef and aromatics, then pressure cook on high for 8 minutes with quick release. Add cooked rice after cooking.

8. Nutritional Information

(Per serving, based on 6 servings):
Calories: 280 | Protein: 18g | Carbohydrates: 22g | Dietary Fiber: 4g | Sugars: 6g | Fat: 12g (Saturated Fat: 4g) | Cholesterol: 45mg | Sodium: 850mg

This nutritional profile makes stuffed pepper soup a balanced meal option. The protein from the beef keeps you satisfied, while the vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals. The fiber content helps with digestion and maintaining steady energy levels.

9. Conclusion

Stuffed Pepper Soup truly is the ultimate comfort food – it’s flavorful, filling, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, meal prepping for the week ahead, or simply craving something warm and satisfying, this recipe delivers on all fronts. The familiar flavors of stuffed peppers transformed into a spoonable, soul-warming soup make this dish a year-round favorite.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand, make it vegetarian if needed, or spice it up to your preference. It’s one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day, making leftovers something to look forward to rather than dread.

So gather your ingredients, grab your favorite soup pot, and get ready to enjoy the delicious taste of stuffed peppers in comforting soup form. One bite and you’ll understand why this recipe has become such a beloved classic. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular in your dinner rotation – it’s that good! Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious spoonful! 🥄🔥

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