Stuffed Pepper Soup
Stuffed Pepper Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that takes the classic flavors of stuffed bell peppers and transforms them into a warm, hearty soup.
This dish is perfect for chilly days, combining tender bell peppers, savory ground meat, rice, and a medley of spices in a delicious broth.
It’s not only satisfying but also versatile, allowing for a variety of adaptations based on your personal taste or dietary preferences.
The concept of stuffed peppers dates back centuries, with origins in various cultures around the world.
The soup version offers the same rich flavors without the labor-intensive process of stuffing and baking the peppers, making it a great option for busy weeknight dinners.
Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or something to warm you up on a cold day, Stuffed Pepper Soup delivers on both comfort and taste.
Ingredients
To create a hearty Stuffed Pepper Soup, gather the following ingredients:
For the Soup:
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey or chicken)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
- 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or a grain of your choice)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite cheese)
How to Make Stuffed Pepper Soup
Brown the Meat:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or your choice of meat) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat if necessary.
Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the diced onion and garlic to the pot. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent. Next, add the diced green, red, and yellow bell peppers, cooking for another 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
Incorporate the Tomatoes and Broth:
Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with their juices and the beef broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Add Seasonings:
Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, cooked rice, oregano, basil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Simmer the Soup:
Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 20-25 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to become tender.
Taste and Adjust:
After simmering, taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can let it simmer uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes.
Serve:
Ladle the Stuffed Pepper Soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and grated cheese, if desired. Serve hot, accompanied by crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Chef’s Note
Stuffed Pepper Soup is incredibly adaptable, allowing you to make it your own. You can easily substitute different types of meat, such as ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian version. If you want to amp up the flavor, consider adding diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper for a touch of heat.
Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Zucchini, corn, or even spinach can be great additions. You can also replace the rice with quinoa, barley, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors only get better as it sits! It can also be frozen for longer storage—just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings)
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Stuffed Pepper Soup not only warms the heart but also offers a good balance of protein, fiber, and vitamins from the vegetables. The combination of ground meat, rice, and colorful bell peppers makes it a nutrient-dense meal.
Be mindful of the sodium content, especially if using canned tomatoes and broth; opting for low-sodium versions can help manage this.
Conclusion
Stuffed Pepper Soup is a delightful twist on a classic dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. Its combination of savory meat, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices creates a rich, satisfying soup that is perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re serving it to family or guests, this dish is sure to be a hit. With its versatility and ease of preparation, Stuffed Pepper Soup is destined to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy every hearty spoonful of this comforting meal!
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