Unlocking The Magic Of Stuffed Pepper Soup Recipe From Garden To Bowl 

Dive into a culinary adventure that unites nostalgia and innovation – the stuffed pepper soup recipe. Indulge in a delicious symphony of bell peppers, ground meat, and hearty rice, all swirling in a tangy tomato base. 

This recipe honors tradition while offering an inventive twist on a family favorite. Perfect for any season, it brings comfort on a chilly night, yet its vibrant ingredients reflect the bounty of summer’s harvest. 

Step-by-step, we will guide you through this delectable journey, ensuring a flavorful result that garners applause at your dinner table. By the end, you’ll not only relish a wonderful meal, but you’ll also gain an insight into the magic that is creative cooking. 

So, let’s roll up those sleeves, ignite your stoves, and embark on this gastronomic voyage with our Stuffed Pepper Soup recipe – where comfort food meets culinary art.

What Is Stuffed Pepper Soup?

Stuffed Pepper Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that mirrors the flavors of traditional stuffed bell peppers but is served in soup form. It’s a robust blend of ground meat—usually beef or turkey—mixed with colorful bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes. 

Cooked rice is added for substance, while a mix of herbs and spices imbue it with rich, savory notes. This recipe captures the essence of a classic stuffed pepper, offering it in a warming, easily enjoyed bowlful that’s perfect for any meal.

History Of Stuffed Pepper Soup

The history of Stuffed Pepper Soup traces back to the time-honored culinary tradition of stuffed peppers, beloved worldwide. Originating in Europe, stuffed peppers have been a staple in diverse cuisines, from Spanish pimientos rellenos to Hungarian töltött paprika. 

The transformation into a soup form occurred primarily in America as a convenient and comforting take on the traditional dish. This adaptation kept the fundamental ingredients – bell peppers, ground meat, and rice – but incorporated them into a simmering soup, making it an ideal one-pot meal that perfectly balances the ease of preparation.

Interesting Facts About Stuffed Pepper Soup

• Universal Appeal: Stuffed Pepper Soup has roots in various cultures. Each culture has its version of stuffed peppers, and the soup is a creative interpretation of this universally adored dish.
• Versatility: It’s a versatile dish that can easily accommodate dietary preferences. Use different types of meat or go vegetarian by using beans or lentils. Even the grain is flexible – rice, quinoa, or barley can be used.
• One Pot Wonder: Its preparation is a lesson in simplicity and convenience, making it a favored one-pot meal that saves time and effort in the kitchen.
• Nutrient-Rich: The soup is a nutritional powerhouse with bell peppers providing vitamin C, meat offering protein, and rice contributing carbohydrates.
• Perfect Leftover Recipe: Stuffed Pepper Soup’s flavor develops over time, making it a perfect recipe for leftovers or meal prepping. The soup tastes even better the next day!
• Season-Independent: While bell peppers peak in summer and fall, the soup can be enjoyed any time of the year due to the wide availability of these ingredients.

What Makes Stuffed Pepper Soup Special?

Stuffed Pepper Soup stands out as a special dish due to its unique blend of features. It beautifully encapsulates the flavors of a traditional stuffed pepper in a comforting bowl, making it a creative twist on a classic recipe. 

Its ingredients harmonize with bell peppers, ground meat, and rice, all contributing to a vibrant, wholesome, and satisfying meal. Its versatility allows adaptation to various dietary preferences and tweaks to suit personal tastes. 

Being a one-pot wonder, it simplifies meal prep, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Lastly, it’s a nutritional powerhouse, packed with essential vitamins, proteins, and carbohydrates, offering a tasty and healthful dining experience.

Ingredients List

Ingredient Tips

• Bell Peppers: Opt for a mix of red, green, and yellow bell peppers. Not only will this make your soup more colorful, but each color offers a slightly different flavor profile.
• Meat: Using lean ground meat helps avoid excess fat in your soup. Beef or turkey are standard, but don’t hesitate to experiment with ground chicken or even meat substitutes for a vegetarian version.
• Rice: Cook the rice separately and add it towards the end to prevent it from becoming too soft. Feel free to use brown rice, wild rice, or even quinoa for a nutritional boost.
• Tomatoes: Using high-quality canned tomatoes will enhance the soup’s flavor. Depending on your preferred texture, you can choose diced, crushed, or tomato sauce.
• Herbs & Spices: Fresh herbs will always provide more vibrant flavors. Also, remember to season as you go to build layers of flavor.
• Stock: A good quality stock can significantly lift your soup. Homemade is the best, but if using store-bought, go for a low-sodium version; so you have better control over the salt content.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?

• Keto: Use riced cauliflower instead of traditional rice. Ensure to use a keto-friendly stock and lean meat.
• Paleo: Similar to keto, replace rice with cauliflower rice. Additionally, check that your canned tomatoes and stock are paleo-approved.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is inherently gluten-free if you use a gluten-free stock. However, always check labels to ensure that no hidden gluten is present.
• Whole30: Again, replace rice with cauliflower rice. Use Whole30-compliant stock and canned tomatoes.
• Vegetarian/Vegan: Substitute meat with hearty legumes like lentils or plant-based meat alternatives. For vegans, ensure your stock is plant-based too.

Recipe Directions 

• Over medium-high heat, brown beef in a Dutch oven, then drain off fat.
• Add peppers to the meat, and sauté it for about 3 minutes.
• Mix in tomato sauce, bouillon cubes, brown sugar, salt, diced tomatoes (with juice), soy sauce and pepper.
• Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-45 minutes.
• Stir in rice, heat through, and serve.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings For The Soup

Variations

• Add a protein twist with different meats like ground turkey or chicken.
• Substitute the beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian version.
• Spice lovers can add a dash of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a kick.
• Swap rice with quinoa, barley, or cauliflower rice for dietary preferences.

Add-Ons

• A splash of red wine, while simmering, adds depth of flavor.
• Stir in some garlic and onions for added aroma and taste.
• Incorporate vegetables like corn or zucchini for added nutrition and texture.

Toppings

• Sprinkle shredded cheese that melts into a delicious gooey delight.
• A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a cooling contrast.
• Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro provide a color pop and freshness.
• Crunchy croutons or a slice of crusty bread serve as perfect soup companions.
• Squeeze fresh lime just before serving to enhance the overall flavor profile.

Scaling The Recipe 

• Scaling Up: If you’re cooking for a larger group or want to make extra for leftovers, simply double or triple the ingredients. Ensure that your Dutch oven is large enough to accommodate the increased quantity. Adjust cooking times, as a larger volume may require longer simmering to melt the flavors.

• Scaling Down: If you’re cooking for fewer people or want a smaller portion, halve the ingredients. When you’re reducing quantities, especially with spices, you might need to adjust to taste. Sometimes a direct half might give a different flavor punch than you want.

What Is Used For Garnishing?

• Fresh Herbs: Chopped fresh parsley only adds a fresh, aromatic touch.
• Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a dollop of creamy goat cheese can add a luxurious finish.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top can add a creamy, tangy contrast to the soup’s robust flavors.
• Croutons: Homemade croutons add a delightful crunch and can soak up the flavorful soup.
• Freshly Ground Pepper: A final crack of black pepper can enhance the soup’s seasoning and provide a slight heat.
• Lime Wedges: Served on the side, they allow guests to add a bright, acidic note to their portion if desired.

Can I Make Soup Name In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

For a Slow Cooker

• Brown the beef on the stovetop first, then drain off the excess fat.
• Transfer the meat to the slow cooker and add the peppers, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, bouillon cubes, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and soy sauce.
• Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
• About 30 minutes before serving, stir in cooked rice and allow it to heat through.

For an Instant Pot

• Use the “Sauté” function to brown the beef, then drain off the excess fat.
• Add the peppers, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, bouillon cubes, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and soy sauce to the pot.
• Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on high for 10 minutes.
• Allow a natural release for 10 minutes, then quickly release the remaining pressure.
• Stir in the cooked rice and use the “Sauté” function again to allow the soup to heat through before serving.

Can I Use Store Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

You certainly can use store-bought broth in your Stuffed Pepper Soup. It’s a convenient option and can save you significant prep time. When selecting a store-bought broth, opt for a low-sodium version so you have better control over the salt content of your soup.

However, if you have the time and ingredients, homemade broth can elevate your soup to another level. It allows you to control the flavor profile and eliminates preservatives or additives often found in commercial broths.

Can I Use Different Types Of Meat/Fish/Pasta/Vegetables For The Soup?

• Meat/Fish: You can replace the beef with ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even a combination of these. For a seafood twist, consider adding shrimp or chunks of firm white fish.
• Pasta: While rice is traditional, pasta can certainly be used as a substitute. Small pasta shapes like orzo or macaroni could work well. For a low-carb version, consider using zoodles (zucchini noodles).
• Vegetables: The recipe is quite flexible when it comes to vegetables. Consider adding corn, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and variety. If you prefer a bit of heat, jalapeños or other hot peppers can be included.

Success Tips-Tips And Tricks For The Recipe

• Brown the ground beef for a richer flavor.
• Sauté the green bell pepper until tender before adding it to the soup.
• Use high-quality tomato sauce and diced tomatoes for better taste.
• Dissolve the beef bouillon cubes entirely in hot water before adding them.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more or less salt, pepper, and soy sauce. Enjoy the soup with freshly cooked white rice for a complete meal.

Prepping Tips

• Mise en Place: This French term means “everything in its place.” Before you start cooking, prep and measure all your ingredients. This will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
• Fresh Ingredients: Always aim to use the freshest ingredients for the best flavor. However, feel free to use frozen vegetables if fresh ones are unavailable.
• Meat Selection: If using meat, choose lean cuts to avoid excess fat. However, a little fat is good for flavor.

Cooking Tips

• Saute: Spend time browning the meat properly, adding depth to the soup’s flavor. Likewise, saute the vegetables until they are softened.
• Simmer: Let the soup simmer gently rather than boiling once all the ingredients are added. This slow cooking will help the flavors meld together.
• Seasoning: Remember to season at every stage of the cooking process, but be careful to do it. Adding more seasoning later is always easier than fixing an overly salty soup.
• Stir: Make sure to stir the soup periodically to prevent ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
• Taste: Taste the soup as you cook and adjust the seasoning as needed. This is the key to a delicious soup!

Nutritional Values

Dive into a world where taste meets nutrition with our Stuffed Pepper Soup. Every spoonful brims with essential nutrients – protein from the meat, fiber from the peppers, and carbohydrates from the rice. 

This hearty soup satiates your taste buds and contributes significantly to your daily nutrient intake. Enjoy a guilt-free, healthful indulgence!

What Are The Total Calories In The Soup?

A serving of Stuffed Pepper Soup – containing ground beef, bell peppers, rice, and a tomato-based broth – can range between 200 to 300 calories per cup.

Dietary Restrictions For The Recipe

• Vegetarian/Vegan: The soup typically contains ground meat unsuitable for vegetarians and vegans. Substitute with lentils, beans, or plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian/vegan version.
• Gluten-Free: The recipe is naturally gluten-free unless the bouillon cubes or store-bought broth contain gluten. Always check labels if you’re strictly avoiding gluten.
• Dairy-Free: No dairy is used in the soup itself, but it’s often topped with cheese. If you’re avoiding dairy, skip this garnish or use a dairy-free alternative.
• Low-Carb/Keto: The rice in this soup adds carbohydrates. Replace rice with cauliflower rice or another low-carb alternative for a lower-carb or keto version.
• Paleo/Whole30: Replace the rice with cauliflower rice and ensure all other ingredients (like the broth and canned tomatoes) comply.
• Allergies: This soup is typically free of common allergens like nuts, seafood, and eggs, but always cross-check every ingredient if you have specific allergies.

Health Benefits Of The Recipe

• High in Protein: Ground meat provides a significant amount of protein, which is crucial for building and repairing tissues and essential for overall growth and development.
• Rich in Vitamins: Bell peppers are a great source of vitamin C, which boosts the immune system, and vitamin A, beneficial for eye health.
• Fiber-Loaded: Both bell peppers and tomatoes contain dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight.
• Energy-Providing: The rice in the soup offers carbohydrates, the body’s primary energy source, keeping you fueled throughout the day.
• Antioxidant Properties: Tomatoes contain lycopene, a potent antioxidant known for its potential cancer-fighting properties.
• Adjustable Fat Content: By choosing lean meat or plant-based substitutes, you can control the soup’s fat content, making it suitable for heart-healthy diets.

Nutrition Table

How Can I Make Soup Lower In Sodium?

• Broth: Use a low-sodium or sodium-free broth. Store-bought broths can be high in sodium, so choosing a reduced-sodium version is a simple way to cut down.
• Canned Goods: If you’re using canned tomatoes, look for a no-salt-added version. Canned goods often contain added salt as a preservative.
• Bouillon Cubes: Be mindful of bouillon cubes, which can also be high in sodium. Look for lower-sodium versions, or consider using homemade broth instead.
• Seasoning: Control the amount of added salt. Rely on herbs and spices to add flavor without increasing the sodium content.
• Meat: If you’re using pre-packaged ground meat, check the sodium content. Some brands add sodium for preservation.

How Can I Make Soup Lower In Sugar?

• Broth: Use a low-sodium or sodium-free broth. Store-bought broths can be high in sodium, so choosing a reduced-sodium version is a simple way to cut down.
• Canned Goods: Look for a no-salt-added version if you’re using canned tomatoes. Canned goods often contain added salt as a preservative.
• Bouillon Cubes: Be mindful of bouillon cubes, which are also high in sodium. Look for lower-sodium versions, or consider using homemade broth instead.
• Seasoning: Control the amount of added salt. Rely on herbs and spices to add flavor without increasing the sodium content.
• Meat: Check the sodium content if you’re using pre-packaged ground meat. Some brands add sodium for preservation.

How To Serve The Soup At Its Best?

• Temperature: Ensure the soup is served hot. If made in advance, reheat it properly before serving.
• Garnish: Garnishing not only enhances the flavor but also the visual appeal. Sprinkle fresh herbs, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream just before serving.
• Accompaniments: While the soup is hearty on its own, you can serve it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Bowls: Use warm bowls to serve the soup. This helps to keep the soup hot for a longer time. Rinse the bowls with hot water or place them in an oven at the lowest setting for a few minutes.
• Presentation: Consider the presentation aspect. Ladle the soup carefully into the bowls to avoid spills and mess.

Perfect Side Dishes To Complement The Recipe

• Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread or a warm baguette is perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up its flavors.
• Side Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a vinaigrette dressing can balance the rich, hearty flavors of the soup. Consider a simple green salad or a tangy slaw.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Pair the soup with a classic grilled cheese sandwich for a comforting meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted vegetables, like Brussels sprouts or asparagus, can add a satisfying, healthful component.
• Quinoa Salad: Consider a vibrant quinoa salad with fresh veggies for a wholesome, protein-packed side.

How Long Can We Store The Soup?

Stuffed Pepper Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. Ensure it’s stored in a tightly sealed container to maintain freshness.

The soup can be frozen if you want to store it for longer. After cooling it thoroughly, place it in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion. It can be kept frozen for up to 2-3 months.

If frozen, reheat the soup to thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Then reheat it in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s hot. If the soup seems too thick after reheating, you can add a bit of water or broth to adjust the consistency.

Can I Make Soup In Advance?

Yes, Stuffed Pepper Soup is an excellent dish to make in advance. In fact, like many soups and stews, it often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had more time to meld together.

Once the soup is cooked, allow it to cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through.

If you’ve added rice to the soup and you plan to store it for a few days, the rice might continue absorbing the broth and making the soup thicker. You can cook and store the rice separately, then add it to individual servings of the soup as you reheat them.

What Can We Do With Leftovers?

• Reheat and Eat: The most straightforward way to enjoy leftover soup is to reheat and serve it as is. The flavors often deepen and improve after a day or two.
• Stuff a Pepper: For a twist, hollow out bell peppers and fill them with the leftover soup (without too much broth). Top with cheese and bake until the peppers are tender, and the cheese is melted.
• Grain Bowls: Use the soup as a hearty topping over a bed of cooked quinoa, farro, or cauliflower rice.
• Baked Casserole: Mix the soup with pasta, top with cheese, and bake for a comfort food casserole.
• Stuffed Wraps or Burritos: Use the hearty ingredients of the soup (drained of most liquid) as a filling for wraps or burritos.

Special Tools/Equipment

• Dutch Oven or Large Soup Pot: A Dutch oven is ideal because it retains heat well, and its broad base is perfect for browning the meat and sautéing the peppers. If you don’t have a Dutch oven, a large soup pot or deep skillet will work too.
• Wooden Spoon: Useful for stirring the ingredients and ensuring they don’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
• Knife and Cutting Board: You’ll need these to chop the peppers and any other vegetables you plan to include.
• Ladle: For serving the soup.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurately measuring the ingredients, especially the seasonings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make Stuffed Pepper Soup Without Meat For A Vegetarian Version?

Absolutely! You can substitute the meat with plant-based alternatives like lentils, black beans, or even a meat substitute product. Also, ensure to use vegetable broth instead of beef bouillon cubes for a fully vegetarian version.

Can I Use Leftover Cooked Rice In This Recipe?

Yes, leftover cooked rice is a great time-saver for this recipe. Add it towards the end of cooking just to heat through, as it’s already cooked.

What Other Types Of Grains Can I Use Instead Of Rice?

Quinoa, barley, or even small pasta shapes can be used instead of rice. For a low-carb option, you can try cauliflower rice. Remember, cooking times may vary depending on the grain used.

Can I Freeze Stuffed Pepper Soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Let the soup cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

The Soup Is Too Thick After Refrigeration. What Can I Do?

The rice in the soup continues to absorb the broth as it sits, which can cause the soup to thicken. When reheating, simply add a bit of water or additional broth to bring it back to your desired consistency.

Unlocking The Magic Of Stuffed Pepper Soup Recipe From Garden To Bowl 

5 from 1 vote

Recipe by Hanna Barnes Course: Soup Recipe

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Unleash a burst of vibrant flavors with our Stuffed Pepper Soup. It’s a comforting blend of browned meat, bell peppers, and rice swimming in a tangy tomato broth. This hearty soup encapsulates the essence of traditional stuffed peppers in an easy-to-enjoy form. 

Ingredients

• Ground beef

• Green bell pepper

• Tomato sauce

• Diced tomatoes

• Beef bouillon cubes

• Brown sugar (packed)

• Salt

• Ground black pepper

• Soy sauce

• Cooked white rice

Step-By-Step Directions 

• Place a Dutch oven on the stove and turn the heat to medium-high. Add beef, stirring and breaking it up until it browns evenly. This should take around 5-7 minutes.
• Carefully drain any excess fat from the browned beef, safely discarding it.
• Incorporate the peppers into the Dutch oven with the browned meat. Sauté these together for about 3 minutes, until the peppers begin to soften.
• Introduce the tomato sauce to the Dutch oven. Also, add the diced tomatoes, including the juice, for additional flavor. Sprinkle in the bouillon cubes, brown sugar, salt, and pepper for seasoning. Finish with a dash of soy sauce for depth.
• Once all ingredients are combined, reduce the heat to low. Cover the Dutch oven and allow the mixture to simmer. This simmering phase will let the flavors meld together over 30-45 minutes.
• Uncover the Dutch oven and stir in the rice. Let this mixture heat through, ensuring the rice is well-integrated and warm.
• For serving, ladle the soup into bowls. As additional options, consider toppings like chopped fresh herbs, a sprinkle of cheese, or a dollop of sour cream to add an extra layer of flavor and presentation.

Recipe Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oWmqI9s7Myw

Notes

• Meat: While ground beef is traditional, feel free to substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Rice: To prevent overcooking, consider cooking the rice separately and adding it to the soup just before serving.
• Broth: You can use beef broth instead of bouillon cubes for a deeper flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: For a plant-based alternative, substitute the beef with lentils or a meat substitute and use a vegetable broth.
• Slow Cooker/Instant Pot: This soup can also be prepared in a slow cooker or Instant Pot. Adjust the cooking times accordingly.
• Leftovers: This soup stores well and often tastes even better when the flavors have melded together the next day.

• Author
• Recent Posts

Hanna Barnes

Hey everyone, my name is Hanna, and I am a writer here at Soup Chick! I came across Lana’s website a few years back, and it reignited my love for making homemade broths and soups that wouldn’t break the bank, and would help me get all of my veggies in!

Here at SoupChick.com, I can offer you a range of different recipes to try, from basic broths, to making your own slow cooker chicken tortilla soup (trust me on this one- it is divine).

I hope that you enjoy making your own as much as I love finding new recipes for you!

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