Stuffed Pepper Soup Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add ground beef; cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon (5-7 minutes).
3. Drain excess fat and set beef aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Add chopped onion to the pot; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
2. Add minced garlic; cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in bell peppers; cook until slightly softened (5 minutes).

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

1. Return beef to the pot.
2. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer 20-25 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Rice

1. Stir in cooked rice; warm through (5 minutes).
2. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Step 5: Serve

1. Ladle into bowls; garnish with parsley (optional).
2. Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad. Enjoy!

Cooking Tips & Notes

• Rice: Use cooked rice to save time. White or brown rice works well. For firmer rice, add it just before serving.
• Beef: Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter soup.
• Broth: Adjust broth for desired thickness. Add more for a thinner soup.
• Make-Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Variations

• Quinoa: Substitute cooked quinoa for rice.
• Vegetarian: Omit beef; add black or kidney beans and use vegetable broth.
• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage.
• Cheesy: Stir in 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella) during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make Stuffed Pepper Soup in a Slow Cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef and sauté vegetables in a skillet. Transfer to a slow cooker, add remaining ingredients (except rice), and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in rice during the last 30 minutes.

2. How Do I Store Leftover Stuffed Pepper Soup?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

3. Can I Freeze Stuffed Pepper Soup?

Yes! Cool completely before freezing in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating. For best results, freeze without rice and add it when reheating.

4. What Can I Serve with Stuffed Pepper Soup?

Stuffed Pepper Soup pairs well with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or garlic bread. A dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese adds extra flavor.

This delicious and easy Stuffed Pepper Soup is a perfect weeknight meal! Enjoy!