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Stuffed Pepper Soup Recipe

Name: Stuffed Pepper Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces bell peppers (chopped) (Use a mix of colors for more visual appeal!); 1 piece onion (chopped) (Yellow or white onions work best for a sweet flavor.); 2 cups tomatoes (diced or canned) (Use crushed tomatoes for a smoother consistency.); 1 pound ground beef (Substitute with ground turkey or lentils for a lighter option.); 1 cup rice (uncooked) (Use brown rice for a healthier twist.); 4 cups beef broth (Swap with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.); 1 teaspoon garlic powder (Fresh minced garlic can be used for an extra punch.); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (Mix your own from basil, oregano, and thyme.); to taste salt and pepper (Always taste before serving!)

This Stuffed Pepper Soup is a cozy hug in a bowl! Imagine digging in and tasting vibrant bell peppers mingling with hearty ground beef, fluffy rice, and rich tomato flavor—so comforting and satisfying. As the soup simmers, it fills your kitchen with the fragrant smell of garlic and herbs, making your mouth water in anticipation. Plus, it’s creamy without any cream—it’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for a chilly day or any day when you crave a warm meal. If you’ve got a busy week ahead, this recipe is easy to whip up, pantry-friendly, and perfect for meal prep. With just one pot, you can make a dish your whole family will love!

Why You’ll Love Stuffed Pepper Soup (Creamy, Easy, and Cozy)

This Stuffed Pepper Soup isn’t just delicious; it’s a total game changer for weeknight dinners. In about 30 minutes, you’ll create a dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrition while still being easy to make. It’s filled with familiar ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen, making it a fantastic option for any night of the week. The creamy texture makes every spoonful feel special, while the savory ingredients make your taste buds dance.

Here are some reasons why you’ll love this soup:

Quick to Make: Ready in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
Comforting Texture: Creamy without cream, each bite is hearty and satisfying.
Pantry-Friendly: Uses common ingredients you probably have on hand.
Meal Prep Winner: Leftovers taste even better the next day!
Customizable: Can easily be adapted to fit dietary needs.
Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable ingredients that fill you up.
Family-Friendly: A favorite for kids and adults alike!

Key Ingredients for Stuffed Pepper Soup

4 bell peppers (chopped)

Purpose: Adds a pop of color and sweetness.
Tip: Use a mix of colors for more visual appeal!

1 onion (chopped)

Purpose: Brings out the savory depth of flavor.
Tip: Yellow or white onions work best for a sweet flavor.

2 cups tomatoes (diced or canned)

Purpose: Forms the base of the soup with rich, juicy flavor.
Tip: Use crushed tomatoes for a smoother consistency.

1 pound ground beef

Purpose: Introduces a meaty element and protein.
Tip: Substitute with ground turkey or lentils for a lighter option.

1 cup rice (uncooked)

Purpose: Helps thicken the soup and makes it heartier.
Tip: Use brown rice for a healthier twist.

4 cups beef broth

Purpose: Adds depth and richness to the soup.
Tip: Swap with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Purpose: Brings in aromatic, savory flavor.
Tip: Fresh minced garlic can be used for an extra punch.

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Purpose: Complements the tomatoes and meat with herby notes.
Tip: Mix your own from basil, oregano, and thyme.

Salt and pepper to taste

Purpose: Enhances all flavors.
Tip: Always taste before serving!

Ready to cook? See the recipe card for exact measurements below.

How to Make Stuffed Pepper Soup

Phase 1 – Prep

Start by washing and chopping your bell peppers and onion.
Dice the tomatoes if using fresh ones.
Gather all other ingredients on your countertop for easy access.

Phase 2 – Cook/Assemble

In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until no longer pink.
Add the chopped onions and cook until they’re soft and translucent.
Stir in the bell peppers, cooking for about 3-4 minutes.
Add in the diced tomatoes, rice, beef broth, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes or until rice is tender.

Phase 3 – Serve

Give the soup a taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Serve hot, and enjoy the warmth and comforting flavors!
Optional: Top with shredded cheese or fresh herbs for extra flavor.

Pro Tips for the Best Results

Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add in some chopped zucchini or corn for extra veggies.
Texture Tip: For a thicker soup, let it simmer longer. You can also mash some of the beans if you choose to include them.
Storage Tip: portion leftovers into containers for quick lunches during the week.
Swap it Up: Try ground turkey or plant-based protein instead of beef for a lighter dish.
Use Leftovers Creatively: Transform any leftovers into tasty stuffed peppers later in the week!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is overcooking the rice. This can make your soup mushy and unappetizing. To fix this, keep a close eye on the cook time and add rice toward the end of the simmering phase.

Another mistake can occur by skimping on seasoning. Since soup can be quite bland without sufficient flavor, be generous with the salt and spices. Always taste as you go along to get it just right!

Lastly, many may use too much liquid. If your soup turns out too watery, consider adding a bit more rice or letting it simmer longer to reduce.

Recipe Variations

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free rice or quinoa.
Dairy-Free: Skip the cheese or use a non-dairy alternative.
Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
Herbal: Fresh basil or parsley can brighten the flavors.
Cooking Method: This soup can be made stovetop, in an Instant Pot, or even in an air fryer!

How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Soup

Best Pairings: Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Toppings & Garnishes: Consider sour cream, shredded cheese, or even crushed crackers on top.
Drink Pairing: A nice glass of iced tea or a light beer goes wonderfully with this soup!

Make Ahead & Storage

Can I Meal Prep This?

Yes! This soup is perfect for meal prep. Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer.

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Just be aware that the rice may change texture slightly once thawed.

Reheating

To reheat, warm it in the microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, or on the stovetop until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cauliflower?
Yes! You can add frozen cauliflower for extra veggies. Just stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking.

How to make it extra creamy without cream?
Blend in some cooked potatoes or add a dollop of cream cheese at the end for creaminess.

Can I double it?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time if using a smaller pot, and make sure to keep taste testing!

How to fix a too-thick soup?
Add a little extra beef broth or water while cooking, then stir well until you reach your desired consistency.

By incorporating vibrant veggies, hearty protein, and comforting spices, this Stuffed Pepper Soup not only fills your stomach but warms your heart, too. It’s easy, satisfying, and ideal for any night. Why not give it a try and let us know how you loved it? If you enjoyed this recipe, check out our other cozy soup dishes!