Stuffed Peppers Soup is a deconstructed take on the classic stuffed peppers, offering all the rich and savory flavors you love in a cozy, bowl-shaped hug. With tender bell peppers, juicy ground beef, sweet tomatoes, and perfectly cooked rice, this dish is a heartwarming combination of simplicity and taste. What’s even better is how quick and easy it is to make all in one pot! Whether you’re feeding the family on a busy weeknight or meal-prepping for days ahead, this soup is a reliable, flavorful, and comforting choice. It’s an effortless way to enjoy the essence of stuffed peppers without all the stuffing.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 green or red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 large tomato, diced
- 1 lb ground beef (85/15 recommended)
- 3 cups beef stock
- 3 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 2 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4–1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 3/4 cup Jasmine rice
Directions:
- Dice all vegetables and set aside.
- Preheat a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat. Add olive oil, then diced onions and bell peppers. Cook until softened.
- Stir in the diced tomato and cook for a few more minutes.
- Push the vegetables to the side of the pot and add ground beef to the center. Break it apart and cover with a lid. Cook for a few minutes.
- Stir and break up the beef further. Mix with the vegetables, cover again, and cook until the beef is mostly done.
- Add tomato paste and stir, then pour in beef stock.
- Season with oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low, cover with a slightly cracked lid, and cook for 20 minutes.
- Mix in the rice, cover, and cook until the rice is tender.
- Serve immediately. For leftovers, consider cooking the rice separately and adding it to individual servings to maintain the soup’s texture.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 406 kcal | Servings: 6
The Ultimate Comfort Food: Stuffed Peppers Soup
Stuffed Peppers Soup is a beloved dish that combines the rich, comforting flavors of traditional stuffed peppers in a deconstructed, soup form. It’s perfect for those who love the hearty, homestyle taste of stuffed peppers but want a more versatile and easy-to-make option. With its vibrant mix of vegetables, savory ground beef, and aromatic herbs, this soup is a flavorful delight that’s ideal for chilly evenings or whenever you’re craving a warm, satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish takes the time-tested, classic recipe for stuffed peppers and simplifies it into a one-pot wonder. Instead of stuffing bell peppers with a savory mixture of meat, rice, and spices, all these elements are combined directly into a rich, flavorful broth. This not only saves time but also creates a dish that’s easier to serve, eat, and store.
Stuffed Peppers Soup is incredibly versatile. It’s a perfect fit for busy weeknight dinners, where you need something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s also an excellent choice for meal prepping, as it stores and reheats beautifully. Whether you’re serving a family, hosting friends, or enjoying a quiet evening at home, this soup fits the bill.
Health Benefits of Stuffed Peppers Soup
This soup is more than just delicious; it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. The bell peppers in this dish are rich in vitamins A and C, which support immune health and promote glowing skin. They also add a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the soup, making it as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
Ground beef is a great source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc, which are crucial for energy and overall wellness. You can also substitute the ground beef with leaner proteins like ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version without compromising on flavor.
Rice, one of the key ingredients, provides carbohydrates for sustained energy. Jasmine rice, as used in this recipe, adds a subtle floral aroma that complements the other flavors beautifully. If you’re looking for a healthier twist, consider using brown rice or even quinoa for an extra boost of fiber and protein.
Perfect for Customization
One of the best aspects of Stuffed Peppers Soup is how customizable it is. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your dietary needs or preferences. Prefer a vegetarian version? Simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein like lentils or crumbled tofu, and swap the beef stock for vegetable broth. If you’re on a low-carb diet, you can omit the rice entirely or substitute it with cauliflower rice.
The vegetables in the soup are also open to interpretation. While the recipe calls for bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes, you can add other veggies like carrots, zucchini, or kale for more texture and nutrients. Corn, green beans, or mushrooms are also excellent additions that complement the flavors of the soup.
Tips for Making the Best Stuffed Peppers Soup
To get the most out of this dish, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:
- Cook the Rice Separately: If you’re planning to store leftovers, consider cooking the rice separately and adding it to each serving. This prevents the rice from becoming overly soft and absorbing too much liquid, which can affect the soup’s texture.
- Choose High-Quality Ingredients: Since this soup relies on simple ingredients, the quality matters. Opt for fresh, ripe vegetables and good-quality ground beef or turkey. If possible, use homemade or low-sodium beef stock to control the salt levels.
- Season to Taste: Herbs and spices are what bring this dish to life. Oregano, basil, and garlic powder are classic additions, but feel free to experiment with paprika, chili flakes, or even a dash of Worcestershire sauce for added depth.
- Don’t Skimp on the Broth: A rich and flavorful broth is the heart of this soup. You can enhance its depth by letting it simmer for a bit longer, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Serve with Toppings: Elevate your soup by garnishing it with shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or freshly chopped parsley. These additions not only enhance the flavor but also make the dish visually appealing.
Storage and Freezing Tips
Stuffed Peppers Soup is a fantastic meal prep option because it stores well and tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Here are some tips for storage and freezing:
- Refrigeration: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Keep the rice separate to maintain the ideal texture.
- Freezing: This soup freezes wonderfully. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag (without the rice) and freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Why It’s a Crowd-Pleaser
The universal appeal of Stuffed Peppers Soup lies in its balance of flavors and textures. It’s hearty without being heavy, making it perfect for all age groups. Kids love its mild and comforting taste, while adults appreciate its depth of flavor and nutritional benefits. Plus, the vibrant colors of the soup make it an attractive addition to any table.
Conclusion:
Stuffed Peppers Soup is a dish that combines simplicity, flavor, and comfort in every spoonful. Its one-pot convenience and endless customization options make it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Whether you’re seeking a quick dinner solution, a meal prep idea, or a dish to warm you up on a cold day, this soup delivers on all fronts. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh side salad, and you have a complete meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.