Cozy Stuffed Pepper Soup

Is there anything more comforting than a warm bowl of soup on a chilly evening? When the leaves start to change and a crispness fills the air, my mind immediately turns to creating recipes that embody coziness. This Cozy Stuffed Pepper Soup perfectly captures that feeling! It’s like a deconstructed stuffed pepper, simmered to perfection in a flavorful tomato broth. It’s packed with ground beef, rice, bell peppers, and all those classic stuffed pepper flavors you crave, but without all the work.

As a recipe developer with over 10 years of experience, I’ve spent countless hours perfecting comfort food classics. This Stuffed Pepper Soup recipe is a true winner. It’s a family favorite, easy to adapt to your liking, and incredibly satisfying. This recipe is especially great right now as we head into soup season! Stuffed peppers have always been a popular dish and transforming it into a soup makes it even easier to enjoy on a busy weeknight. Get ready to experience the ultimate in cozy comfort food!

Ingredients for the Best Stuffed Pepper Soup

Let’s break down the key ingredients that make this Stuffed Pepper Soup so delicious and satisfying. Understanding the role each ingredient plays will help you create a soup that’s bursting with flavor.

• Ground Beef: I typically use lean ground beef (85/15) to avoid excess grease. For a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully. For a plant-based alternative, consider using lentils or crumbled plant-based ground. The protein content of the beef keeps you full and satisfied.
• Bell Peppers: The star of the show! I recommend using a mix of colors (red, green, yellow, and orange) for visual appeal and a variety of flavors. Green peppers have a slightly more bitter taste, while red and yellow are sweeter. The fiber in bell peppers also contributes to the feeling of satiety.
• Onion and Garlic: These aromatics form the foundation of the soup’s flavor. Sautéing them in olive oil before adding the other ingredients releases their essential oils, creating a depth of flavor that you can’t achieve any other way.
• Cooked Rice: I prefer using long-grain rice, but brown rice or quinoa can also be used for a healthier twist. Make sure the rice is cooked al dente, as it will continue to cook in the soup. Leftover rice works perfectly in this recipe.
• Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes provide the base of the broth. Fire-roasted diced tomatoes add a smoky depth of flavor. Crushed tomatoes can be used for a smoother consistency.
• Tomato Sauce: Adds richness and body to the soup. You can substitute tomato paste, but be sure to cook it with the onions and garlic to mellow the flavor.
• Beef Broth: Enhances the savory flavor of the soup. Chicken broth or vegetable broth can be used as alternatives.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that complements the flavors of the other ingredients. You can also use a combination of dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a touch of umami and depth of flavor. Soy sauce can be used as a substitute.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the soup for a spicy kick.
• Creamy Texture: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving for a creamy texture.
• Cheesy Goodness: Top the soup with shredded cheddar cheese or mozzarella cheese for a cheesy delight.
• Hearty Additions: Add other vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or celery to the soup for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Sweetness: Some people like a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Add a teaspoon of sugar or honey to the soup while it simmers, tasting and adjusting as needed.

Expert Tips for the Best Stuffed Pepper Soup

After countless batches of this soup, I’ve learned a few tricks to take it from good to amazing. These are my personal testing notes and pro insights to help you create the most flavorful and satisfying Stuffed Pepper Soup.

• Browning the Beef: Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning the ground beef. Brown it in batches to ensure even browning and prevent steaming. This will enhance the flavor of the beef.
• Sautéing the Vegetables: Sautéing the onions and garlic until softened before adding the other ingredients is crucial for building flavor. This step releases their natural sweetness and creates a deeper flavor profile.
• Simmering Time: Allowing the soup to simmer for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to meld together and the rice to soften. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes.
• Adjusting the Broth: The amount of broth can be adjusted to your liking. For a thicker soup, use less broth. For a thinner soup, add more broth.
• Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to season generously. Taste the soup throughout the cooking process and adjust the seasoning as needed.
• Spice it Up: As I mentioned earlier, a little bit of heat can really elevate this soup. But start small with the red pepper flakes and adjust to your preference.

Storage & Make-Ahead Instructions

This Stuffed Pepper Soup is a fantastic make-ahead meal. It tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together.

• Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: The soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before serving. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Reheating Tips

• Stovetop: Reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
• Microwave: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Stuffed Pepper Soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! To make this soup in a slow cooker, brown the ground beef and sauté the onions and garlic as directed in the recipe. Transfer the browned beef and vegetables to a slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the cooked rice during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice. Keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you may need to add more broth to the soup and simmer it for a longer period of time. Ensure the brown rice is fully cooked before serving.

Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! To make this soup vegetarian or vegan, substitute the ground beef with lentils, crumbled plant-based ground, or diced mushrooms. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can also add other vegetables like zucchini, carrots, and spinach to make it even more nutritious. For a vegan option, omit any dairy-based toppings like sour cream or cheese.

How can I make this soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water) to the soup during the last 15 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. Be careful not to over-blend, as you still want some texture.

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Definitely! This soup is very versatile, and you can add other vegetables to suit your taste. Some great additions include zucchini, carrots, celery, corn, and green beans. Add the vegetables along with the bell peppers and onions for best results.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free beef broth and ensure that your Worcestershire sauce is also gluten-free. Most Worcestershire sauces contain gluten, so it’s important to check the label. Alternatively, you can use soy sauce, gluten-free tamari, or coconut aminos as a substitute.

Your Cozy Stuffed Pepper Soup Awaits!

There you have it – a hearty, flavorful, and comforting Cozy Stuffed Pepper Soup recipe that’s perfect for any chilly day. I hope you’ll give this recipe a try and experience the joy of a warm hug in a bowl. Don’t forget to adjust the ingredients to your liking and make it your own!

I would love to hear from you! What are your favorite soup recipes? Let me know in the comments below. And if you try this Stuffed Pepper Soup, be sure to tag me in your photos on social media! I can’t wait to see your creations.

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