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Saturday, May 31, 2025

Stuffed Pepper Soup


 Stuffed Pepper Soup: The Comfort Food Classic You’ll Crave Again and Again

Rich, hearty, and irresistibly cozy—this is the soup your family will request on repeat.



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Introduction: Why This Stuffed Pepper Soup Is Absolutely Irresistible


If you're a fan of classic stuffed peppers, you're going to love this Stuffed Pepper Soup even more. It has all the savory, comforting elements of the traditional dish—ground beef, sweet bell peppers, tender rice, and rich tomato sauce—but in a much easier, faster format. No stuffing, no baking, no fuss.


Made in one pot with simple ingredients, this soup is ideal for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or even meal prep. It's the kind of recipe that hits all the right notes: easy to make, loaded with flavor, and deeply satisfying. This version captures everything you love about stuffed peppers and turns it into a comforting, hearty soup your entire household will rave about.



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Ingredients and Why They Matter


Understanding the role of each ingredient is key to making this soup perfectly balanced and deeply flavorful:


1 pound lean ground beef – The hearty base of the soup. It adds protein, richness, and that classic meaty flavor.


1 tablespoon olive oil (optional) – Use only if needed to sauté vegetables, especially if using very lean beef.


1 small onion, finely chopped – Adds aromatic depth and subtle sweetness, forming the flavor foundation.


2 cloves garlic, minced – Essential for enhancing the overall savory profile and adding richness.


2 large bell peppers, chopped – The star vegetable. Red peppers add sweetness, while green peppers contribute a more traditional flavor.


1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – Adds acidity and texture, helping balance the richness of the meat and broth.


1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce – Provides body and smooth tomato flavor that binds everything together.


3 cups beef broth – Adds depth and a savory backbone that supports all the other ingredients.


1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – A secret weapon for deep, umami-packed flavor.


1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A balanced mix of dried herbs like oregano and basil for a familiar, comforting taste.


1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Essential for enhancing and balancing all the flavors.


1 cup cooked white rice – A key component of classic stuffed peppers. It thickens the soup and makes it heartier.


Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped parsley – Add extra richness, creaminess, or brightness to the final dish.




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Step-by-Step Instructions


Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until fully browned and no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.


Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell peppers to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.


Step 3: Add the Liquids and Seasonings

Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle boil.


Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Reduce the heat and simmer the soup uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the peppers to fully soften and the flavors to deepen.


Step 5: Add the Cooked Rice

Stir in the cooked rice and let it warm through for 5 more minutes. The rice will absorb flavor and thicken the soup slightly.


Step 6: Taste and Serve

Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle into bowls and top with your favorite garnishes like shredded cheese, a spoonful of sour cream, or fresh chopped parsley.



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Why This Recipe Works


One-pot convenience – Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor make this a go-to dinner.


Classic comfort flavors – It tastes exactly like your favorite stuffed peppers, only easier.


Make-ahead friendly – Great for meal prep or freezing for future meals.


Customizable – Easily adaptable for different diets or ingredient preferences.




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Pro Tips for the Best Stuffed Pepper Soup


Use leftover rice for a quicker prep and better texture. Freshly cooked rice can turn mushy if added too soon.


Freeze without the rice to avoid a soggy texture. Add cooked rice when reheating.


Add a bay leaf while simmering for an extra aromatic boost—just remember to remove it before serving.


Make it cheesy by stirring in shredded mozzarella or cheddar before serving.


Add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice at the end to brighten up the flavors if needed.




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Serving Suggestions


This soup pairs beautifully with a few simple sides to make it a complete meal:


Crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping


A green salad with a tangy vinaigrette


Steamed green beans or roasted carrots for added veggies


A sprinkle of shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for richness




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Conclusion: The Ultimate Comfort Food, Simplified


This Stuffed Pepper Soup is everything you want in a comforting weeknight meal—quick, hearty, flavorful, and endlessly satisfying. It captures the nostalgia of classic stuffed peppers without the prep work and delivers big flavor in every spoonful.


Whether you're looking for a cozy dinner, a make-ahead lunch, or something the whole family will devour, this recipe delivers. One pot. Simple ingredients. Incredible results.


Bookmark this one—it’s destined

 to become a regular on your table.


Let me know if you’d like variations for slow cooker, low-carb, or vegetarian options.


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