This Stuffed Pepper Soup brings all the flavors of a classic stuffed pepper into a comforting, easy-to-make soup. It’s packed with juicy ground beef, tender rice, and sweet bell peppers, all simmered together in a savory tomato broth. The combination of herbs adds a depth of flavor that will make this a family favorite. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re craving something hearty and filling, this soup is a great one-pot meal that can easily be made in advance. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it suitable for a variety of diets while still being incredibly delicious.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 2 bell peppers (diced)
- 1 onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz)
- 1 can tomato sauce (15 oz)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
- Add the diced bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the pot. Sauté for 5 minutes until vegetables are soft.
- Stir in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add the uncooked rice, stir, and let it cook for another 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings
The Origins of Stuffed Pepper Soup
The classic stuffed pepper is believed to have roots in various cuisines around the world, from Eastern European to Mediterranean dishes. Traditionally, bell peppers are hollowed out and stuffed with a mixture of ground meat, rice, and spices before being baked. This meal was designed to be both filling and economical, using affordable ingredients that are easy to find and prepare.
Stuffed Pepper Soup takes those same elements but transforms them into a soup, making it even easier to prepare and enjoy. Instead of stuffing each pepper individually, all the ingredients are chopped up and cooked together in one pot, which not only cuts down on prep time but also creates a rich and flavorful broth that infuses every bite.
Why Stuffed Pepper Soup is a Great Choice
One of the main reasons why this soup has become a favorite is its balance of taste, texture, and nutrition. The combination of tender ground beef, soft rice, and crunchy bell peppers offers a satisfying bite, while the tomato-based broth brings a comforting and tangy flavor to the dish. Additionally, stuffed pepper soup is naturally gluten-free, making it accessible to those with dietary restrictions, and it can be easily adapted to be dairy-free or even vegan by swapping out the meat and using vegetable broth.
For families, this dish is ideal for meal prepping. It stores well in both the refrigerator and freezer, meaning you can make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week. The flavors tend to deepen and improve after a day or two, making leftovers even more enjoyable.
Nutritional Benefits
Stuffed Pepper Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Bell peppers are the star of this dish, and they bring a host of vitamins and minerals to the table. Red, green, yellow, and orange bell peppers are rich in vitamins C and A, both of which are powerful antioxidants that help support immune function and skin health. They are also a good source of fiber, helping to promote digestive health.
Ground beef provides a solid dose of protein, along with essential vitamins like B12 and zinc, both of which are crucial for maintaining energy levels and supporting overall health. For those who prefer to reduce their red meat intake, ground turkey or chicken can easily be substituted for a leaner option while still providing high-quality protein.
Rice, often included in the recipe, adds carbohydrates for energy and fiber for satiety. Brown rice or quinoa can be used as an alternative to white rice if you’re looking to increase the fiber content and keep the dish more nutrient-dense.
The soup’s base of tomato sauce and broth brings in additional nutrients such as lycopene, a powerful antioxidant found in tomatoes that has been linked to heart health and reduced cancer risk. Tomatoes also contain potassium, which supports heart function and maintains healthy blood pressure levels.
Recipe Adaptations and Variations
One of the most appealing aspects of Stuffed Pepper Soup is its adaptability. You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your personal taste or dietary needs. If you’re looking to cut down on carbs, for example, you can omit the rice entirely or replace it with cauliflower rice, which will provide a similar texture without the added carbs.
For a vegetarian or vegan option, simply leave out the ground beef and replace it with plant-based meat alternatives, beans, or lentils. The addition of beans, such as black beans or kidney beans, adds extra protein and fiber, making the soup just as hearty and filling.
If you’re someone who enjoys a little heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the broth for a spicy kick. Alternatively, smoked paprika can add a depth of flavor that gives the soup a slightly smoky, complex taste.
Slow cookers and pressure cookers are perfect for preparing Stuffed Pepper Soup, especially if you’re short on time or prefer a hands-off approach to cooking. For the slow cooker, you can brown the meat, then add all ingredients into the pot and let it simmer on low for 6-8 hours. The Instant Pot allows you to brown the meat directly in the pot, add your ingredients, and cook on high pressure for about 10 minutes, making the dish even faster.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers
Stuffed Pepper Soup is an excellent meal prep option for busy individuals or families. The soup can be made in large quantities and divided into individual portions for easy reheating throughout the week. When stored properly in airtight containers, it will keep in the refrigerator for up to five days. Additionally, it freezes exceptionally well and can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Simply reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave, and it’s ready to enjoy.
As the flavors meld together in the fridge or freezer, the soup often tastes even better after sitting for a day or two. This makes it ideal for those who like to plan their meals in advance but still want something flavorful and satisfying.
Conclusion:
Stuffed Pepper Soup is a delicious and hearty dish that brings together the best elements of traditional stuffed peppers in a comforting soup form. Its combination of rich flavors, high nutritional value, and versatility make it a favorite for many households. Whether you’re looking for a warm and filling meal for a cold evening or something you can prepare in advance for the week, this soup is a fantastic option.
With the ability to adapt the ingredients to suit various dietary needs and preferences, Stuffed Pepper Soup can be made gluten-free, vegan, or low-carb without sacrificing flavor or texture. It’s a nutritious and satisfying meal that will keep you coming back for more.
