Delicious Stuffed Pepper Soup – A Cozy and Hearty Comfort Meal

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting and filling: A complete meal with protein, vegetables, and grains in one pot.

• Customizable: Easily adjust the protein, spices, or rice to suit your taste.

• Simple and quick: Ready in just 40 minutes, making it a great weeknight option.

• Meal prep friendly: Stores and reheats beautifully, perfect for leftovers.

• Nutritious: Packed with vitamins from peppers, tomatoes, and herbs while still being hearty.

Ingredients

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

For the Soup:
1 lb ground beef, turkey, or chicken
1 medium onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped (red, green, or a mix for color)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
4 cups beef broth or chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil

For Garnish (Optional):
1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
Sour cream
Chopped fresh parsley

Directions

1. Brown the Meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain excess fat if necessary.

2. Sauté Vegetables: Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

3. Add Liquids and Seasonings: Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Add oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring to a gentle simmer.

4. Cook the Rice: Stir in uncooked rice. Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until rice is tender and flavors are well combined.

5. Taste and Adjust: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.

6. Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with cheese, sour cream, and parsley if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Different proteins: Swap ground beef with turkey, chicken, or even sausage.

• Low-carb option: Replace rice with cauliflower rice.

• Extra vegetables: Add zucchini, carrots, mushrooms, or corn for extra nutrition.

• Spicy kick: Use hot Italian sausage or add diced jalapeños.

• Cheesy twist: Stir cheese directly into the soup for a creamy version.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water if the rice absorbs too much liquid.

FAQs

Can I use cooked rice instead of uncooked?

Yes, stir in cooked rice at the end of cooking to prevent it from becoming too soft.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, brown the meat first, then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, adding rice halfway through.

What’s the best rice for stuffed pepper soup?

Long-grain white rice works best, but brown rice adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, simply skip the cheese and sour cream garnish.

How do I thicken stuffed pepper soup?

Allow it to simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes or add a spoonful of tomato paste.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, use vegetable broth and replace meat with beans, lentils, or extra veggies.

Why is my rice mushy?

Rice can overcook if left too long. Stir occasionally and check for doneness around the 20-minute mark.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely. Use a larger pot or Dutch oven and double all ingredients.

What can I serve with stuffed pepper soup?

Crusty bread, cornbread, or a side salad pair wonderfully with this hearty soup.

Can I freeze stuffed pepper soup with rice?

Yes, though the rice may soften. For best texture, freeze without rice and add fresh rice when reheating.

Conclusion

Delicious Stuffed Pepper Soup is the perfect cozy meal for chilly nights. With its hearty blend of meat, peppers, rice, and savory broth, it delivers all the comforting flavors of traditional stuffed peppers in an easy soup form. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or cooking up a quick family dinner, this soup is a warm and satisfying favorite you’ll want to make again and again.