Hearty Stuffed Pepper Soup Recipe

When the weather takes a chilly turn, there’s nothing more satisfying than a steaming bowl of hearty soup. Stuffed Pepper Soup brings all the flavors of classic stuffed peppers into a comforting and convenient one-pot meal. This soup is brimming with vibrant bell peppers, juicy ground beef, wholesome rice, and a medley of herbs simmered in a rich tomato broth. It’s a perfect choice for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend dinners.

Not only is this recipe packed with flavor, but it’s also budget-friendly and easy to prepare. With a cooking time of just under an hour, you’ll have a filling, healthy meal ready to warm the hearts of everyone at the table.

Preparation Time 

Serves: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (substitute with ground turkey or chicken if preferred)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), diced
• 1 large carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz/400 g) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (14.5 oz/400 g) tomato sauce
• 4 cups (1 liter) beef or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1/2 cup (100 g) uncooked white or brown rice
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients
Before you begin, dice the onion, bell peppers, carrot, and celery. Mince the garlic and measure out the rice, broth, and spices for seamless cooking.

2. Cook the Ground Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it is evenly browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Once cooked, transfer the beef to a bowl and set aside, leaving any drippings in the pot for extra flavor.

3. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the onion, carrot, and celery for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

4. Add the Bell Peppers
Stir in the diced bell peppers and cook for 3–4 minutes to release their natural sweetness.

5. Build the Flavor Base
Return the cooked beef to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth. Stir in the dried basil, oregano, thyme, and smoked paprika. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.

6. Add the Rice and Simmer
Stir in the uncooked rice and reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the flavors have melded together. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed.

7. Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or basil, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Success

• Make it Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Simply reheat gently on the stove.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing Option: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Dietary Variations: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner version, or use vegetable broth and skip the meat for a vegetarian alternative.

Hearty Stuffed Pepper Soup is the ultimate comfort food that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy. With its bold flavors, nutrient-packed ingredients, and versatile nature, it’s a dish that will quickly become a family favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal-prepping, this soup embodies warmth and homestyle cooking in every bite. Give it a try, and let the rich aroma fill your kitchen with the promise of a delicious meal.

So, why wait? Gather your ingredients, grab your favorite pot, and savor the joy of a dish that feels like a warm hug on a cold day.