Introduction
Stuffed Bell Pepper Soup takes everything you love about classic stuffed peppers and transforms it into a warm, comforting bowl of soup. It has the same savory flavors of ground meat, tender bell peppers, rice, and rich tomato broth, but in an easier, more spoonable form. I often make this soup when I am craving comfort food without the extra steps of stuffing and baking peppers. It comes together in one pot, fills the kitchen with a wonderful aroma, and tastes even better the next day. What makes this soup especially appealing is how hearty and satisfying it is while still feeling wholesome. It is perfect for chilly evenings, meal prep, or feeding a hungry family. With simple ingredients and bold, familiar flavors, Stuffed Bell Pepper Soup is a reliable recipe that delivers comfort in every bite.
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Stuffed Bell Pepper Soup – Cozy, Hearty, and Full of Flavor
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Stuffed Bell Pepper Soup is a hearty, comforting soup inspired by classic stuffed peppers, featuring ground beef, bell peppers, tomatoes, and rice simmered together for a warm and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 bell peppers (any color), diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef or chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil (if using) and brown ground beef with onion until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add diced bell peppers and garlic; cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes.
- Stir in cooked rice and simmer an additional 5 minutes.
- Adjust seasonings to taste and serve hot.
Notes
- Add rice just before serving to prevent it from absorbing too much liquid.
- Use cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
- Top with shredded cheese for extra richness.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is easy, filling, and packed with classic stuffed pepper flavor. It is made in one pot, reheats beautifully, and works well for busy weeknights or make-ahead meals.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Ground beef
Ground beef provides a rich, savory base and makes the soup hearty and filling.
Bell peppers
Bell peppers add sweetness, color, and that signature stuffed pepper flavor.
Onion
Onion builds depth and enhances the savory base of the soup.
Garlic
Garlic adds warmth and aromatic flavor.
Tomato sauce
Tomato sauce forms the rich, comforting broth.
Diced tomatoes
Diced tomatoes add texture and extra tomato flavor.
Beef broth
Beef broth deepens the savory taste of the soup.
White or brown rice
Rice makes the soup hearty and gives it the classic stuffed pepper feel.
Italian seasoning
Italian seasoning ties all the flavors together.
Paprika
Paprika adds warmth and subtle smokiness.
Salt
Salt enhances all the flavors in the soup.
Black pepper
Black pepper adds gentle heat and balance.
Olive oil
Olive oil is used for sautéing the vegetables.
Fresh parsley
Parsley adds freshness and color before serving.
Directions
Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the pot and sauté until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant. Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then stir in the rice. Reduce heat and simmer until the rice is tender and the flavors are well blended. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Equipment needed :
Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling
Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:
Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.
Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.
large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.
Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.
Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.
Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.
Full-Size Blender – is a powerful kitchen appliance for making smoothies, soups, and sauces in large batches.
3-in-1 Air Fryer – This versatile 3-in-1 air fryer offers Air Fry for healthier meals with less oil, Bake for bakery-quality desserts and treats, and Reheat to bring leftovers back to life with crispy, flavorful results.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves approximately 6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 35 to 40 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add extra broth if the soup thickens. This soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Variations and Customizations
Stuffed Bell Pepper Soup is very adaptable. You can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. For a low-carb version, replace rice with cauliflower rice and add it near the end of cooking. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or stir in shredded cheese when serving for extra richness. This soup also works well in a slow cooker by browning the meat first and then letting everything simmer together.
Nutrition and Dietary Info
This soup is high in protein and can be made gluten-free depending on ingredients. It contains no dairy unless cheese is added. Nutritional values vary based on ingredient choices and portion size.
Expert Tips & Customizations
Cook Rice Separately for Meal Prep
This prevents it from absorbing too much broth.
Use Mixed Bell Peppers
Different colors add better flavor and presentation.
Let It Simmer
Longer simmering deepens the flavor.
FAQs
Does this taste like stuffed peppers?
Yes, it has the same classic flavor in soup form.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it tastes even better the next day.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, freeze for up to two months.
What rice works best?
White or brown rice both work well.
Can I make it low-carb?
Yes, use cauliflower rice.
Is this kid-friendly?
Yes, the flavors are mild and comforting.
Can I add cheese?
Yes, shredded cheese is a great topping.
How do I thicken the soup?
Let it simmer longer or add extra rice.
Can I use vegetable broth?
Yes, but flavor will be lighter.
What should I serve with it?
Crusty bread or a simple salad pairs well.
Conclusion
Stuffed Bell Pepper Soup is a cozy, satisfying dish that captures all the comforting flavors of traditional stuffed peppers in an easy, one-pot soup. Hearty, flavorful, and perfect for leftovers, this recipe is a dependable favorite that brings warmth and comfort to any table.
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