This savory stuffed pepper soup with ground beef and rice brings all the comforting flavors of classic stuffed peppers in a warm and hearty bowl. With tender ground beef, vibrant bell peppers, and a flavorful tomato-based broth, every spoonful is packed with deliciousness. The addition of cooked rice gives it a rich texture, making it a satisfying meal perfect for any time of the year. Not only is this dish simple to prepare, but it’s also great for meal prep. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers taste even better! Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a nourishing lunch, this soup will keep you coming back for more. Serve it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onions and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in diced bell peppers and cook for 2 minutes until slightly softened.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir in Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 20 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Stir in the cooked rice and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The Ultimate Guide to Hearty Stuffed Pepper Soup
Stuffed Pepper Soup is a warm, comforting dish that takes all the classic flavors of traditional stuffed bell peppers and transforms them into a rich, flavorful soup. This one-pot recipe is simple to make, incredibly satisfying, and perfect for meal prepping. Whether you’re looking for a cozy winter meal or an easy weeknight dinner, this soup will become a family favorite.
The Origin of Stuffed Pepper Soup
Stuffed peppers have been a staple dish in many cultures for centuries. Countries like Hungary, Mexico, and Greece have their own variations of stuffed peppers, filled with ingredients like ground meat, rice, herbs, and spices. The idea of turning this beloved dish into a soup is a modern twist that keeps all the flavors intact while making it even easier to prepare. The concept likely originated in American kitchens as a way to enjoy the essence of stuffed peppers without the need to individually prepare and bake each pepper. By turning it into a soup, you save time and effort while still getting that same delicious combination of bell peppers, beef, tomatoes, and rice.
Why This Stuffed Pepper Soup Stands Out
- One-Pot Convenience: Everything is cooked in a single pot, making cleanup quick and easy.
- Rich and Hearty Flavor: The combination of beef, bell peppers, tomatoes, and seasonings creates a deeply satisfying taste.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop.
- Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary needs—use ground turkey for a leaner version or substitute quinoa for rice to make it gluten-free.
- Nutritious and Balanced: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins from the vegetables, this soup is both filling and nourishing.
- Budget-Friendly: All the ingredients are affordable and commonly found in most kitchens, making it a great meal for families on a budget.
Key Ingredients and Their Benefits
1. Bell Peppers
Bell peppers are the star of this dish, providing a sweet and slightly tangy flavor. They are loaded with vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, which support immune health and digestion.
2. Ground Beef
Using lean ground beef adds a rich, savory depth to the soup. It’s a great source of protein, iron, and B vitamins, essential for energy and muscle health. If you prefer a healthier alternative, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead.
3. Tomatoes (Diced and Sauce)
Tomatoes add a natural sweetness and acidity that balances the soup. They are packed with lycopene, an antioxidant known for its heart-health benefits.
4. Rice
Rice helps thicken the soup and makes it more filling. White rice provides a soft, comforting texture, while brown rice or quinoa can be used for a fiber-rich, whole-grain option.
5. Beef Broth
A rich beef broth enhances the deep, savory flavors of the soup. It also provides essential minerals and collagen, which support gut health and joint function.
6. Italian Seasoning and Spices
A blend of Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and pepper brings out the best in all the ingredients, adding layers of flavor without overpowering the dish.
How to Make the Best Stuffed Pepper Soup
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Cooking the ground beef first allows it to develop a delicious, caramelized flavor. Be sure to drain any excess grease to keep the soup from being too oily.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Onions, garlic, and bell peppers should be lightly sautéed before adding the liquid. This step helps bring out their natural sweetness and enhances the depth of flavor.
Step 3: Simmer for Maximum Flavor
Letting the soup simmer allows all the ingredients to blend together beautifully. The longer it cooks, the richer the flavors will be.
Step 4: Add Cooked Rice at the End
To prevent the rice from becoming mushy, stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking. If you plan to store leftovers, keep the rice separate and add it when reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Stuffed Pepper Soup is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides:
- Crusty Bread: A warm baguette or dinner rolls are perfect for dipping.
- Side Salad: A fresh garden salad adds a nice contrast to the hearty soup.
- Cheese Topping: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese enhances the flavor.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop adds a creamy, tangy finish.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
One of the best things about this soup is how well it stores and reheats.
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: This soup freezes beautifully! Place it in freezer-safe bags or containers and store for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. If needed, add a splash of broth or water to adjust the consistency.
Pro Tip: If you plan to freeze the soup, store the rice separately and add it when reheating to maintain the best texture.
Common Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is easy to adapt based on dietary preferences and available ingredients:
- Make it Vegetarian: Swap the ground beef for lentils or plant-based crumbles.
- Low-Carb Option: Skip the rice and add cauliflower rice instead.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
- Creamy Version: Stir in a bit of heavy cream or coconut milk for a richer texture.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
This Hearty Stuffed Pepper Soup is everything you love about classic stuffed peppers but in a fuss-free, comforting bowl of soup. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a warming dish on a cold day, this recipe checks all the boxes.
Easy to Make – Simple steps and minimal prep.
One-Pot Wonder – Less cleanup, more convenience.
Nutritious & Filling – Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
Family-Friendly – A dish that both kids and adults will love.
Make-Ahead & Freezer-Friendly – Perfect for busy schedules.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a delicious, satisfying, and wholesome meal, this Stuffed Pepper Soup is a must-try. It brings together all the best elements of stuffed peppers in an easy, spoonable form that’s perfect for any occasion. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your pot, chop those bell peppers, and get cooking! And don’t forget to share your creations—tag us on social media and let us know how you enjoyed it!