If you’re craving a warm, hearty meal that tastes like a cozy hug in a bowl, the Stuffed Pepper Soup Recipe is your new best friend. Combining all the beloved flavors of classic stuffed peppers in a delicious, easy-to-make soup, this dish is bursting with tender ground meat, sweet bell peppers, aromatic herbs, and comforting rice. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a family favorite without all the fuss, perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want something soothing and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Stuffed Pepper Soup Recipe keeps things straightforward with ingredients that deliver big on flavor and texture. Each component plays a special role—from the savory ground beef or turkey that adds richness, to the vibrant bell peppers that bring a sweet crunch, and the rice providing a satisfying body to the soup.
- Olive oil: For sautéing and adding a subtle fruity richness.
- Ground beef or ground turkey: The protein base that makes it hearty and filling.
- Yellow onion: Adds a sweet, savory depth when softened.
- Garlic cloves: Infuses the soup with warm, aromatic flavor.
- Bell peppers (any color): Provide vibrant color and a pleasant crunch.
- Canned diced tomatoes: Bring tang and a fresh tomato flavor.
- Tomato sauce: Adds smoothness and body to the broth.
- Beef or chicken broth: The savory liquid that pulls all the ingredients together.
- Italian seasoning: Gives an herby, Mediterranean flair.
- Dried oregano: Adds a hint of earthiness.
- Smoked paprika: Offers a subtle smoky warmth.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing all the flavors.
- Cooked white or brown rice: Adds filling texture and mild nutty notes.
- Chopped fresh parsley: A fresh garnish to brighten the finished soup.
How to Make Stuffed Pepper Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Start by heating the olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add your ground beef or turkey and cook it until it’s nicely browned, breaking it up with your spoon. This step creates a rich, savory base with great texture and flavor. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Next, toss in the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced bell peppers. Cook this mixture for about 4 to 5 minutes until the onions are translucent and the peppers are softened. These veggies bring sweetness and aroma, making the soup incredibly inviting.
Step 3: Combine the Liquids and Seasonings
Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and your choice of broth. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, then bring the soup to a boil. This flavorful combination is what gives the soup its classic stuffed pepper taste in liquid form.
Step 4: Simmer and Finish
Reduce the heat so the soup simmers uncovered, allowing the flavors to meld over 20 to 25 minutes. After simmering, stir in the cooked rice and let it heat through for about 5 more minutes. This final touch turns the soup into a hearty, comforting meal that feels just like your favorite stuffed pepper dish.
How to Serve Stuffed Pepper Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top adds a pop of color and fresh herbal brightness that lifts the whole bowl. For extra creaminess, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese makes a wonderful addition.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or warm garlic rolls for dipping. A crisp green salad on the side offers a refreshing contrast that balances the warm, rich soup perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bread bowls for a fun twist that everyone will love. Or, try topping each bowl with a handful of toasted breadcrumbs or crushed tortilla chips for an unexpected crunch and texture contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can easily store leftover Stuffed Pepper Soup Recipe in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you’re preparing in advance, set the cooked rice aside separately to keep it from soaking up too much broth and becoming mushy.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully! For best results, cool it completely before transferring to airtight containers. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Reheating
Reheat the soup over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to blend the flavors and heat evenly. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully in this Stuffed Pepper Soup Recipe, offering a leaner option without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Is it okay to use frozen bell peppers?
Yes, frozen bell peppers can be used if fresh aren’t available. Just be aware that frozen peppers release more moisture, so you might want to adjust cooking time slightly to prevent the soup from becoming too watery.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Definitely! Simply swap the ground meat for a plant-based alternative or add hearty beans like kidney or black beans. Use vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken for a full vegetarian version.
How spicy is this Stuffed Pepper Soup Recipe?
The recipe is mild by default. If you like a little kick, adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce will spice it up beautifully without overpowering the core flavors.
What type of rice is best for this recipe?
Both white and brown rice work well here. Cooked rice is added at the end to maintain a nice texture. Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber, while white rice keeps things lighter and quicker to cook.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the comforting hug of a bowl of Stuffed Pepper Soup Recipe to brighten your day. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with familiar flavors that feel like home. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try this recipe—it’s a delicious way to enjoy classic stuffed peppers any time of year with minimal fuss and maximum love.
Print
Stuffed Pepper Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This hearty Stuffed Pepper Soup captures the flavors of classic stuffed peppers in a comforting bowl. Ground beef or turkey, bell peppers, tomatoes, and rice simmer together with Italian herbs to create a delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-make soup that’s perfect for any season.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 small yellow onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 large bell peppers (any color), chopped
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 3 cups low-sodium beef or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell peppers to the pot. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until they become softened and fragrant.
- Add Liquids and Seasoning: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, broth, Italian seasoning, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes to deepen flavors and soften the peppers.
- Add Rice and Finish: Stir in the cooked rice and continue simmering for an additional 5 minutes until the rice is heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- This soup can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. For best texture, keep the rice separate until reheating to prevent it from absorbing too much liquid.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat if desired.
- Top with shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella for a richer, comforting twist.
