This hearty stuffed bell pepper soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It combines all the yummy flavors of stuffed peppers like ground beef, rice, and sweet bell peppers, but in a cozy soup form.
Remember, it’s like enjoying stuffed peppers without the fuss! I love to sprinkle some cheese on top for that extra gooey goodness. Perfect for chilly days! 🥣💚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is key for flavor! You can switch to ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. For a vegetarian option, use lentils or a plant-based meat alternative.
Bell Peppers: I love a mix of colors for a vibrant look! Feel free to use just one type if that’s what you have on hand. Yellow, orange, or even poblano peppers bring lovely flavors.
Rice: Usually, white rice is used here, but brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice can work well too! Just adjust cooking times for different grains.
Beef Broth: For a lighter soup or vegetarian option, use vegetable broth. Homemade broth can add more flavor if you have it!
How Do I Get the Best Flavors from My Soup?
Developing flavor is a big part of soup making! Start by caramelizing your onions and garlic properly, as this enhances the richness.
- Cook onions until they’re golden, not just translucent.
- Layer in the flavors step by step: beef, then peppers, then broth and spices.
- Let it simmer! Patience will help all those delicious flavors blend together.
Tasting before serving lets you adjust with more spices or salt if needed. A sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end keeps it bright.
Stuffed Bell Pepper Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 bell peppers (red, green, yellow), diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups beef broth
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious stuffed bell pepper soup will take you about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 minutes to cook, so you can enjoy a wholesome meal in just 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until they are translucent, which will take about 3-4 minutes. Add in the minced garlic and give it a stir for another minute until fragrant.
2. Brown the Beef:
Next, toss in the ground beef, breaking it up into small chunks with your spoon. Cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat to keep your soup nice and light.
3. Add the Veggies:
Stir in the diced bell peppers and let them cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften. They add a delightful crunch and fresh flavor to your soup!
4. Mix in the Liquids:
Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (including their juices) and the beef broth. Stir everything together so the flavors can mingle.
5. Season the Soup:
Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a nice boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This will deepen the flavors beautifully!
6. Stir in the Rice:
Finally, add in the cooked rice and let it simmer for another 5 minutes so everything heats through. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a hint of color and freshness. Enjoy your warm, comforting stuffed bell pepper soup!
This soup is not just filling and hearty, but it also captures all the wonderful flavors of stuffed bell peppers, making it a perfect meal for any day of the week! 🍲💚
Can I Use Other Proteins in This Soup?
Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat alternative for a vegetarian option. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if necessary.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead! Cook the soup and let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it!
How Can I Thicken the Soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add more rice or a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water to help thicken it up. Allow it to simmer for a few extra minutes after adding to reach your desired consistency.
What Can I Serve with Stuffed Bell Pepper Soup?
This soup is delicious on its own, but you can pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. You might also consider adding some shredded cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish!
