When I first cooked stuffed pepper soup, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious it was! It’s like enjoying comfort in a bowl, and the hearty ingredients made it perfect for cozy dinners. I remember thinking how much easier it was to make this soup compared to traditional stuffed peppers. It quickly became a family favorite, with everyone going back for seconds (and even thirds!). Here’s everything you need to know to recreate this flavorful dish, with a few tips and variations to make it your own.
Credit: dinneratthezoo
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a handy breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need and why they work perfectly for this recipe:
- 1 pound ground sirloin – This lean meat provides a rich, hearty base without turning oily. You can also opt for ground turkey if you prefer a lighter alternative.
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped – Fresh green peppers provide crunch and flavor. Feel free to add red or yellow peppers for sweetness.
- 1 cup diced onion – Adds a mild, sweet aroma that ties the flavors together.
- 1 (29-ounce) can diced tomatoes – For that bold, tangy tomato essence.
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce – Helps create a rich and smooth broth.
- 1 (14-ounce) can chicken broth – Enhances the overall flavor depth. Beef broth can work here too for a heartier punch.
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme – Brings a subtle earthy note.
- ¼ teaspoon dried sage – Adds warmth and depth to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Adjust to your preference for seasoning.
- 2 cups water – Ensures the soup has enough liquid for a perfect consistency.
- 1 cup white rice, cooked – This gives the soup its filling, comforting texture. Avoid instant rice for the best results!
Note: These ingredient measurements make roughly six servings.
Tasty Variations to Try
Looking to switch things up? Here are some suggestions to customize the soup to suit your preferences or dietary needs:
- Low-carb option: Replace rice with cauliflower rice or omit it altogether.
- Vegetarian-friendly: Use veggie crumbles instead of beef, and swap the chicken broth for vegetable stock.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh jalapeños to the mix.
- Cheesy flair: Top with shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella work beautifully).
- Richer flavor: Substitute beef broth for a bolder, meatier taste.
You can also enjoy similar hearty dishes like this Cajun butter bourbon steak recipe.
Cooking Time
Whipping up this stuffed pepper soup doesn’t take long, and the results are beyond worth it! Here’s an easy breakdown of the timing:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 45 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour
Equipment You’ll Need
Just a few basic kitchen tools are required to make this delicious soup:
- Large pot or Dutch oven – Used for simmering the soup.
- Skillet – Perfect to brown the ground meat.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring ingredients.
- Chef’s knife – To chop the veggies with ease.
- Cutting board – Makes veggie prep simple.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Ensures accurate ingredient portions.
How to Make Stuffed Pepper Soup the Easy Way?
Step 1: Brown the Ground Meat
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground sirloin and cook until it’s browned and crumbly, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, drain off any excess grease. This step ensures the soup remains flavorful without becoming too oily.
Step 2: Cook Your Veggies
Transfer the browned meat to a large pot and add your chopped green peppers and diced onions. Cook them together for about five minutes until the onions turn translucent. This step creates the aromatic base of the soup.
Step 3: Craft the Flavorful Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chicken broth, thyme, and sage. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good stir, cover, and simmer the soup on low heat for about 30-45 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Cook the Rice
While the soup simmers, cook your rice separately. Bring two cups of water and one cup of rice to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the water is absorbed, and the rice is tender.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Once the soup is ready, stir in the cooked rice and heat through for 5 minutes. Serve it piping hot and enjoy the comforting goodness of this hearty soup!
Credit: simplyhappyfoodie
Tips to Make Your Stuffed Pepper Soup Even Better
Here are some insider tips from my kitchen to yours:
- Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for an extra umami boost.
- If you love bold flavors, sprinkle in a teaspoon of Italian seasoning along with the thyme and sage.
- Keep the rice and soup stored separately if you’re making it in advance; this prevents the rice from soaking up all the broth.
- Toss in some chopped fresh parsley or basil right before serving for a pop of fresh flavor.
If you enjoy ground beef recipes, you can also explore this ground beef curry recipe for more inspiration.
Serving Ideas for Stuffed Pepper Soup
This soup is even more delicious with the right accompaniments! Try pairing it with crusty bread, a simple side salad, or garlic knots for a full meal. For presentation, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top or add a dollop of sour cream for creaminess. A sprig of fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil makes it look extra fancy.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick snapshot of the nutritional values per serving for this recipe:
- Calories: 337
- Protein: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fat: 12g
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing and reheating leftover stuffed pepper soup is effortless. Here’s how:
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave for best results.
- Freezing: Freeze without the rice for up to three months. Thaw overnight and cook rice fresh before serving.
- Reheating: Warm it on medium heat on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if it feels too thick.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe?
There are so many reasons to make this soup a regular on your dinner rotation. Here’s why it’s so lovable:
- Quick and easy: No stuffing peppers or complicated steps required!
- Hearty and filling: Perfect for keeping you warm and full during colder days.
- Customizable: Easy to adapt for various dietary preferences and ingredient swaps.
- Meal-prep friendly: Ideal for freezing and reheating, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
- Family-approved: A hit with adults and kids alike, thanks to its approachable flavors and comforting textures.
Stuffed pepper soup is the ultimate blend of simplicity, comfort, and flavor. Once you make it, I’m sure it’ll become a favorite in your household, just like it did in mine! Try it out, and don’t forget to get creative with your own twists. Happy cooking. You can also explore more beef recipes for additional ideas. Happy cooking!