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Stuffed Pepper Soup: a delightful blend of familiar ingredients and comforting flavors. If you’ve always been a fan of stuffed bell peppers, this recipe takes all those beloved elements and turns them into a hearty, comforting soup. Ideal for chilly evenings or as a fulfilling family dinner, this soup combines rice, bell peppers, beef, and tomatoes in a rich and savory broth, creating an economical yet utterly satisfying meal.
Many of us look for ways to utilize leftover ingredients in the fridge, making soup an excellent choice. With this recipe, leftover rice, vegetables, or even bits of meat find new life. This flexibility not only minimizes food waste but also lends a hand to creativity in the kitchen, allowing you to use whatever is on hand to enhance the soup’s flavor and nutritional value.
Why You’ll Love This Stuffed Pepper Soup Recipe
– Comforting and hearty: Brimming with ingredients like ground beef, bell peppers, and rice, this soup is both fulfilling and comforting.
– Easy customization: Flexible with ingredients, you can easily substitute or add vegetables according to your preference or what’s available.
– Simple preparation: With straightforward step-by-step instructions, it’s easy to prepare, whether on the stovetop, in a crockpot, or a pressure cooker.
– Economical: Utilizes basic pantry staples and leftover ingredients, making it budget-friendly without sacrificing taste.
Ingredient Notes
– Lean ground beef: Provides a rich protein base; you can substitute with turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
– Green bell peppers: Essential for that classic stuffed pepper flavor, they add crunch and sweetness. Feel free to mix with red or yellow peppers for added color.
– Beef broth: Adds depth to the soup base. Chicken or vegetable broth can also be used.
– Cooked rice: Adds texture and makes the soup more substantial. Consider brown rice for a healthier twist.
– Worcestershire sauce: Gives a subtle complexity and a slight tang to the broth.
– Condensed tomato soup: Enhances the tomato flavor. Tomato paste or crushed tomatoes can be used as alternatives.
– Canned diced tomatoes: Provide texture and fresh tomato taste, crucial for the broth.
– Mushrooms: Add umami and heartiness; optional but recommended for their flavor.
– Italian seasoning: A convenient blend that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
How to Make Stuffed Pepper Soup Recipe
– Step 1: Prepare the Base
Begin by sautéing the ground beef, chopped green peppers, and onions in a large pot over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink. This develops foundational flavors for the soup.
– Step 2: Drain and Combine Ingredients
After draining any excess fat, stir in the condensed tomato soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and diced tomatoes, blending all the ingredients thoroughly.
– Step 3: Simmer
Cover the pot and let the soup simmer gently for one hour to allow the flavors to meld.
– Step 4: Final Touch
Stir in the pre-cooked rice just before serving, cooking for an additional two minutes to heat through.
Storage Options
Properly stored, stuffed pepper soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Ensure it’s in an airtight container. For longer preservation, this soup freezes beautifully. Freeze in sealed containers and thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to use.
Variations and Substitutions
– Substitute rice with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version.
– Use sugar-free pasta sauce instead of condensed tomato soup to reduce sugar intake.
– Play around with the protein; turkey or chicken are excellent lean alternatives.
– Add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
What to Serve With Stuffed Pepper Soup
– A side of crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up the delicious broth.
– A fresh green salad dressed lightly enhances the meal’s freshness.
– For a heavier meal, pair it with a roasted vegetable medley.
– A glass of robust red wine complements the rich flavors of the soup.
Frequently Asked Questions
– Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely, just omit the meat and use vegetable broth. Add more beans or lentils for protein.
– How can I thicken the soup?
For a thicker texture, mash some of the beans or vegetables into the broth.
– Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, when using gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and ensuring all processed ingredients are gluten-free.
– Can I cook it in a slow cooker?
Yes, prepare the base as directed, then transfer to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
This stuffed pepper soup guarantees a delightful culinary experience, packed with vibrant flavors and aromas that promise comfort with every spoonful. Easy to make, this recipe not only satisfies hunger but also offers a nutritious meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the wholesome goodness of a dish that feels like a warm hug!
Stuffed Pepper Soup
Ingredients
- 1 lb Lean ground beef
- 3 Green bell peppers chopped
- 4 cups Beef broth
- 2 cups Cooked rice
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 can Condensed tomato soup
- 1 can Canned diced tomatoes
- 1 cup Mushrooms sliced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Sauté ground beef, bell peppers, and onions until beef is cooked.
- Drain excess fat, add tomato soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, and diced tomatoes.
- Simmer covered for 1 hour.
- Stir in cooked rice and mushrooms, heat through.