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Stuffed Pepper Soup

If you love stuffed peppers but want something easier and more comforting, this Stuffed Pepper Soup is the perfect answer. It’s a cozy, one-pot meal loaded with ground beef, onions, colorful bell peppers, and tender rice simmered in a rustic tomato broth. All the flavors of classic stuffed peppers, but in hearty soup form—and ready in about 40 minutes!

This soup is warm, belly-filling, and ideal for chilly fall or winter nights. Pair it with crusty bread or garlic toast, and you’ve got a complete, satisfying dinner that the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • All the flavor of stuffed peppers—without the fuss
  • One-pot convenience—easy cleanup, quick prep
  • Hearty and customizable—make it meaty, veggie-packed, or spicy
  • Perfect for meal prep—stores and freezes well

Ingredients

  • 1 lb lean ground beef – hearty, flavorful base (swap with turkey, chicken, or sausage)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil – for sautéing veggies
  • ½ medium yellow onion, diced – adds depth of flavor
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced – aromatic, savory boost
  • 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
  • 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes – for chunky texture
  • 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce – rich tomato base
  • 2 cups beef broth – makes it hearty and savory
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – deepens flavor
  • 1 tbsp sugar (optional) – balances tomato tang
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning – classic herbs for warmth
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups cooked long-grain white rice – stir in just before serving
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped – bright finish
  • Shredded cheddar or mozzarella (optional) – for a melty topping

How to Make Stuffed Pepper Soup

  1. Brown the beef: In a Dutch oven or large pot, cook ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess grease if needed and season lightly with salt and pepper. Remove and set aside.
  2. Cook the vegetables: In the same pot, heat olive oil. Sauté onions and bell peppers until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
  3. Build the broth: Stir in beef, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Season with Worcestershire sauce, sugar (if using), Italian seasoning, plus more salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Simmer: Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Add rice and garnish: If serving immediately, stir in cooked rice and parsley, simmering just until warmed through. For leftovers, keep rice separate and add it to each bowl before serving.
  6. Serve: Ladle into bowls, top with parsley, and finish with shredded cheese if desired.

Recipe Tips & Variations

  • Rice: Always use cooked rice to avoid it soaking up all the broth. Store rice separately if planning for leftovers.
  • Flavor boost: Add smoked paprika, cumin, or red pepper flakes for extra depth.
  • Veggie-packed: Stir in carrots, celery, mushrooms, or spinach.
  • Different proteins: Try ground turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for a twist.
  • Cheesy topping: Melt shredded cheese on top for that classic stuffed pepper vibe.
  • Mexican-inspired: Use taco seasoning and top with Mexican cheese blend for a Tex-Mex version.

Storage & Freezing

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Keep rice separate to prevent mushiness.
  • Freeze: Soup (without rice) can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
  • Reheat: Add a splash of broth if the soup has thickened. Warm the rice separately and stir it in before serving.

Slow Cooker Method

For a hands-off version:

  1. Brown beef in a skillet, then transfer to a slow cooker.
  2. Add all ingredients except the rice.
  3. Cook on LOW 6–8 hours or HIGH 3–4 hours.
  4. Stir in cooked rice just before serving.

Serving Ideas

  • Pair with warm crusty bread or garlic knots.
  • Garnish with parsley, cheese, or even sour cream.
  • Serve alongside a simple garden salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This Stuffed Pepper Soup brings all the comfort of a classic dish in easy soup form. It’s hearty, flavorful, family-friendly, and endlessly adaptable to your tastes. Whether you make it stovetop or slow cooker, it’s the kind of meal that warms you up from the inside out.