This warm and hearty stuffed bell pepper soup is like a hug in a bowl! It’s packed with tasty ground meat, rice, and colorful bell peppers, simmered in a rich tomato broth.
I love how easy this soup is to make. Just toss everything in the pot and let it bubble away. Plus, it’s great for using up that extra rice you have lying around. Yum! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Ground beef adds richness, but you can swap it for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. I often use turkey for a healthier twist!
Bell Peppers: A mix of red, green, and yellow bell peppers gives a nice color and flavor. If you prefer or have only one color, that’s totally fine – just use what you like!
Rice: White rice works perfectly here, but you can substitute with brown rice or quinoa for a whole grain option. Just remember that cooking times might change a bit.
Beef Broth: If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, vegetable broth is a great swap. It still gives a good flavor base!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Ground Beef for This Soup?
Cooking ground beef correctly is crucial for the best flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Use a large pot and heat the olive oil before adding the onions — this enhances the flavors.
- Cook the beef over medium heat. Don’t rush it; allow it to brown evenly for that deep flavor.
- Make sure to break up the meat well with a spoon. This helps it cook thoroughly and blend nicely with other ingredients.
- If there’s a lot of grease after cooking, carefully drain it to keep the soup from becoming too greasy.
These tips will ensure your meat is flavorful and blends well in the soup!
How to Make Stuffed Bell Pepper Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 3 large bell peppers (red, green, and yellow), diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty stuffed bell pepper soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and another 30 minutes to cook, making a total of 40 minutes from start to finish. Quick, easy, and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. This gives a nice base flavor to your soup!
2. Add Garlic and Ground Meat:
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Then, mix in the ground beef (or turkey), breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until the meat is brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off.
3. Include the Bell Peppers:
Stir in the diced bell peppers and cook for about 3-4 minutes, just until they start to soften. This adds great color and flavor!
4. Mix in the Tomato and Broth:
Add the tomato paste, stirring to coat the meat and vegetables evenly. Next, pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the broth. Stir everything together.
5. Season and Simmer:
Add the oregano, basil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes to let the flavors blend.
6. Add the Rice:
Stir in the cooked rice and let it simmer for another 5 minutes until heated through. Taste your soup and adjust seasonings if needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot and garnish each bowl with fresh chopped parsley. Enjoy the warmth and flavors of this delightful stuffed bell pepper soup!
This comforting soup is perfect for cozy dinners with family or friends, bringing all the deliciousness of stuffed bell peppers straight to your bowl!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just be aware that cooking times and flavors may vary slightly.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. You can make it a day ahead, refrigerate, and then simply reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Definitely! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
