Stuffed Pepper Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simplified Preparation: Enjoy the taste of stuffed peppers without the hassle of stuffing each one.

• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein, vegetables, and rice, it's a complete meal in a bowl.

• Versatile Cooking Methods: Easily adaptable for stovetop or slow cooker preparation.

• Family-Friendly: A dish that both adults and children will appreciate.

• Perfect for Meal Prep: Makes generous portions that are ideal for leftovers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Lean ground beef

• Olive oil

• Salt and pepper

• Yellow onion, chopped

• Red bell pepper, chopped

• Green bell pepper, chopped

• Garlic cloves, minced

• Diced tomatoes

• Tomato sauce

• Low-sodium beef broth

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Dried basil

• Dried oregano

• White or brown rice

• Cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional)

Directions

Stovetop Method:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat and set aside.

2. In the same pot, sauté chopped onions, red and green bell peppers until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

3. Return the cooked beef to the pot. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, dried basil, and oregano. Bring to a boil.

4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes.

5. While the soup simmers, cook rice according to package instructions.

6. Stir cooked rice into the soup or add to individual servings. Garnish with chopped parsley and shredded cheese if desired.

Slow Cooker Method:

1. Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat and transfer to the slow cooker.

2. In the same skillet, sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant. Transfer to the slow cooker.

3. Add chopped bell peppers, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, dried basil, and oregano to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.

4. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours.

5. Cook rice separately according to package instructions.

6. Stir cooked rice into the soup before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley and shredded cheese if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 6 servings

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 40 minutes

• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Protein Swap: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.

• Vegetarian Version: Omit meat and use vegetable broth. Add beans or lentils for protein.

• Grain Alternatives: Replace rice with quinoa, barley, or cauliflower rice for different textures.

• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.

• Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda for varied flavors.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: Freeze soup without rice in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Add freshly cooked rice when reheating.

• Reheating: Warm soup on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

What type of rice works best in stuffed pepper soup?

Both white and brown rice are suitable. White rice offers a softer texture, while brown rice provides a nuttier flavor and more fiber.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, this soup is excellent for meal prep. Prepare the soup without adding rice, and store it in the refrigerator. Add freshly cooked rice when reheating to maintain texture.

Is it necessary to cook the rice separately?

Cooking rice separately prevents it from becoming overly soft or absorbing too much broth. It also allows for better control over the soup's consistency.

Can I use different types of bell peppers?

Absolutely. Feel free to use any combination of red, green, yellow, or orange bell peppers based on your preference or availability.

How can I make this soup spicier?

To add heat, include ingredients like red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce during cooking.

What can I serve with stuffed pepper soup?

This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete meal.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a lean alternative that works well in this recipe. Adjust seasoning as needed to enhance flavor.

How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy in leftovers?

Store rice separately from the soup. When ready to eat, reheat the soup and add the rice just before serving.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you ensure that all ingredients, especially broth and canned goods, are certified gluten-free.

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Certainly. Vegetables like zucchini, corn, or spinach can be added for extra nutrition and flavor.

Conclusion

Stuffed Pepper Soup is a delightful and convenient way to enjoy the classic flavors of stuffed peppers. Its rich, savory broth combined with hearty ingredients makes it a perfect comfort food for any occasion. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or preparing meals for the week, this versatile soup is sure to satisfy.

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