My family adores stuffed peppers, but sometimes the prep work feels like a bit much on a busy weeknight. That’s how this Stuffed Pepper Soup came to be. It captures all the flavors of classic stuffed peppers without all the fuss! It’s an easy win that became an instant favorite.
This soup is truly a lifesaver for busy families. It’s quick to assemble and cooks up beautifully on the stovetop, in your Instant Pot, or in a slow cooker. So, whether you’re craving comfort food after a long day or need a simple weekend meal, this recipe delivers.
Why You’ll Love It
This Stuffed Pepper Soup is a weeknight wonder! It’s packed with flavor, hearty, and so easy to make. The prep is minimal, and you can cook it on the stovetop, in your Instant Pot, or even in a slow cooker. It’s a true comfort food champion.
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Stuffed Pepper Soup
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This hearty Stuffed Pepper Soup delivers all the classic flavors without the fuss! It’s quick, easy, and adaptable to stovetop, Instant Pot, or slow cooker cooking. A true weeknight winner.
Ingredients
- Olive Oil
- Ground Beef
- Onion
- Garlic
- Bell Peppers (red, orange, or yellow)
- Canned Tomatoes
- Tomato Sauce
- Beef Broth
- Water
- Dried Parsley
- Dried Basil
- Dried Oregano
- Black Pepper
- Bay Leaf
- Red Pepper Flakes
- Long-grain White Rice
- Parmesan Cheese (optional)
- Fresh Parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Brown ground beef in olive oil, drain excess grease.
- Sauté onion and garlic until softened.
- Add bell peppers, canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, beef broth, herbs, spices, and rice. Mix well.
- Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until rice is cooked.
- Remove bay leaf. Serve with Parmesan and parsley, if desired.
Notes
For a thicker soup, use less broth. To make it spicier, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. If you don’t have fresh parsley for garnish, dried parsley works just fine.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Soups
- Method: Simmer
- Cuisine: American
What You’ll Need
Here’s a quick look at the ingredients. For precise measurements, see the recipe card below:
- Olive Oil: Just a touch for sautéing the veggies and meat.
- Ground Beef: The star of the show! Lean ground beef works best.
- Onion and Garlic: Essential aromatics to build flavor.
- Bell Peppers: A mix of red, orange, or yellow bell peppers adds sweetness and vibrancy.
- Canned Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes and tomato sauce create a rich, tomatoey base.
- Beef Broth and Water: The liquid foundation of the soup.
- Dried Herbs and Spices: Parsley, basil, oregano, black pepper, a bay leaf, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- White Rice: Long-grain white rice cooks up perfectly in the soup.
- Parmesan and Parsley: For garnishing. (Optional, but delightful!)
You might already have most of these in your pantry, making this soup even easier!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess grease.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until softened.
Step 3: Add the Remaining Ingredients
Stir in the diced bell peppers, canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, beef broth, dried herbs, spices, and rice. Give everything a good mix.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Step 5: Serve
Remove the bay leaf. Ladle into bowls and garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.
Smart Tips & Tricks
- For a richer flavor, consider browning your ground beef with a little diced bacon or pancetta. It adds a smoky depth that’s irresistible! Looking for more quick dinner ideas? Our lunch recipes offer a variety of easy and satisfying meals.
- If you’re using a slow cooker, be sure to keep an eye on the rice towards the end of the cooking time. You might need to adjust the amount of water or cook the rice separately to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Don’t be afraid to get creative with the spices! A pinch of smoked paprika or cumin would add a fantastic dimension to the flavor.
Flavor Twists
This recipe is a great starting point! Feel free to customize it to your liking. Try adding a can of drained and rinsed kidney beans or black beans for extra protein and texture. You can also spice things up with a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes. For a different flavor profile, try adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of smoked paprika. Explore our breakfast recipes for more delicious meal ideas.
If you’re not a fan of beef, ground turkey or chicken would also work well in this soup. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I make a vegetarian version of this soup?
This soup is incredibly versatile! For a vegetarian version, simply swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or finely chopped mushrooms. You could also add other veggies like zucchini or corn.
How long can I store leftover Stuffed Pepper Soup?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to thin it out.
Can I adjust the consistency of the soup?
Absolutely! If you prefer a thicker soup, you can reduce the amount of water or broth. Conversely, if you like a thinner soup, add a bit more liquid during cooking. You can also stir in a tablespoon or two of cornstarch mixed with water at the end to thicken it up.
Can I use a different type of rice?
While white rice is traditional, you can definitely experiment! Brown rice, quinoa, or even small pasta shapes like orzo would work well. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
How to Serve
This Stuffed Pepper Soup is a hearty and satisfying meal all on its own! But, for a little something extra, a side of crusty bread is perfect for dipping. A crisp green salad adds a refreshing contrast. Check out our dessert recipes to complete your meal.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy twist. A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese is also a fantastic addition.
That’s a Wrap
This Stuffed Pepper Soup is pure comfort in a bowl. It’s hearty, flavorful, and adaptable to your favorite cooking method. A simple, satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. It’s a keeper, friends! Now, share the love and pass this recipe along. Find more easy dinner recipes on our Dinner page. Don’t forget to connect with us on Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram!
